Final answer:
In the context of the quotation, 'aesthetics' refers to the attractive visual characteristics of the tundra that have been degraded due to human activity. The correct answer is option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the quotation from "Save ANWR", the term “aesthetics” most nearly means attractive visual characteristics. This interpretation is consistent with the understanding that aesthetics refers to the appreciation of beauty or good taste, especially in the visual arts. In the context of the tundra affected by human activity, degradation of aesthetics implies that the natural beauty and visually pleasing elements of the landscape have been negatively impacted, making it less appealing to the senses.