• Why do Americans use so much oil that pollutes air around the country?
• How can the U.S. make sure that its endangered species are protected in coming years?
• What can the government do to make sure that all Americans have access to clean, pure water?

George W. Bush says that since he has taken office, the U.S. has been enjoying cleaner air, water and land. He has announced new plans to reduce pollution and keep the national water supply clean. Here are several of Bush's other plans:

• Continue work on a program called "Clear Skies," which forces power plants to reduce the amount of polluting chemicals they release into the air.
• Spend more than $40 million to help farmers take care of the land they use to grow crops.
• Start a program to keep forests healthy. Bush believes one way to do this is to allow companies to cut down trees that could end up being part of forest fires.

John Kerry says that President Bush has not done enough to protect our environment against many forms of pollution. Kerry wants to reduce the amount of oil used in the U.S. by encouraging carmakers to use new kinds of fuel. Here are some of his other priorities:

• Make sure that the air and water in poor communities is just as clean as it is in wealthier neighborhoods.
• Clean up dirty rivers, polluted lakes and other parts of our national water supply.
• Look for new ways for countries around the world to protect their shared environment.