The whole nation practices environmental protection concepts, but why is it still a major polluting country?

In the United States, environmental awareness is widespread and ecological values are taught from an early age. Yet in practice, there remains a gap between ideals and reality, with per capita carbon emissions still among the highest in the world. A focus on short-term gains has at times hindered environmental progress rather than advanced it. This young American hopes the United States will take a longer-term view and work with other countries to protect our shared planet.