She was a marine biologist, author,
and conservationist
Conducted research into the effects of
pesticides on the food chain
She then published the book "Silent
Spring", which chronicled the harmful
effects of indiscriminate use of
pesticides
This study influenced environmental
public policy but was also met with fierce
opposition from chemical companies and
pesticide producers
She condemned the widespread use of DDT (a pesticide),
which led to legislation banning the use of DDT and other
pesticides
She argued that once the pesticides entered the biosphere,
they not only killed bugs but also made their way up through
the food chain to threaten bird and fish populations and could
eventually sicken children
Carson was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal
of Freedom by President Jimmy Carter.