Most of the people in America (North America, anyway) are from somewhere else. So you can spread the pollution blame around. The people in the United States and Canada are working feverishly to reduce the amount of pollution going into our rivers, lakes, seas, atmosphere and have made huge strides. The great lakes --notable Erie -- are nearly restored. Stringent laws have been enacted to control and dispose of hazardous wastes. When you're pointing that finger at "America," please note that there are at least three pointing back at you. Maybe you could take a peek -- or better yet, a sniff -- at the Danube. I read where our finny friends do not find swimming in the once magnificent river very hospitable.