Final answer:
The average citizen is likely to support environmental protection when awareness of environmental issues is high, during public health crises or if international pressure is applied. Support can also increase as a nation's wealth and standard of living rise, making environmental protection seen as essential rather than a luxury.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average citizen is most likely to support tough environmental protection measures during periods of heightened awareness and perceived threats to public health or natural resources. Historically speaking, groups like those in the 1960s through the 1980s who were part of the growing environmental movement showed significant support for such measures. Public attitudes towards environmental standards often become more favorable when the consequences of inaction are clear and present, such as during a highly publicized environmental disaster.
In contrast to this historical perspective, if other countries were to urge the United States to increase environmental standards, the public reaction might be mixed. Citizens of high-income countries, which typically have stricter environmental policies, might feel a sense of accountability or pressure to lead by example, suggesting a potential increase in support for stricter measures. However, others might perceive it as meddling in national affairs or overreach, which could foster resistance to increased standards. While it is difficult to predict the uniform response of a diverse population, such international calls for action would likely spark debate and dialogue on national environmental policies.
Nations with high standards perceive environmental protection not as a luxury but as an integral part of societal well-being. It stands to reason that once citizens realize that the benefits of environmental protection contribute to better health outcomes, increased quality of life, and preservation of the natural world, support for such measures is more likely.