AEI's third annual Earth Day checkup will review environmental trends and conditions in the United States. The panel will mark the formal release of the ninth edition of the 2004 Index of Leading Environmental Indicators by AEI resident scholar Steven F. Hayward. The Index examines government data on numerous environmental conditions, most of which show consistent improvement. This year's edition devotes special attention to troublesome quirks in air quality and the stewardship of public lands. For the first time, the ninth edition of the Index will have a special section comparing U.S. environmental trends with trends in European Union nations.

Mr. Hayward will be joined by AEI resident fellow, Karlyn H. Bowman, who will present findings from her recently released AEI study on public opinion on the environment.  "Polls on the Environment" brings together dozens of national polls gauging opinions on the politics of the environment.  Ms. Bowman will provide insight on how environmental issues will affect the 2004 presidential election.