The environment doesn't need saving. We do

Do you think people care about the environment? Have your say!

The last few years has seen the green debate move into the mainstream. Where campaigners and activists were once seen as fringe elements with mad ideas, they are now government partners and accepted authorities on all things green.

Despite huge efforts by elements of industry and science to deny the reality of global warming, Joe public is teaming up with Duncan Stewart and co. to 'do our bit' for the environment.

However, maybe it's a bit late for token gestures. In between sound bytes, strategies and recycling efforts, SUVs thunder on, public transport is being dismantled and there's still no sign of serious investment in green energy and jobs.

Sure enough Obama-mania offers hope and possibly a new direction but perhaps a more fundamental look at the environment needs to take place. Take for instance this 'warning to humanity', issued by 1,700 of the world's leading scientists:

"Human beings and the natural world are on a collision course. Human activities inflict harsh and often irreversible damage on the environment and on critical resources. If not checked, many of our current practices put at serious risk the future that we wish for human society and the plant and animal kingdoms, and may so alter the living world that it will be unable to sustain life in the manner that we know. Fundamental changes are urgent if we are to avoid the collision our present course will bring about."

Given that this strong message was delivered seventeen years ago, maybe it's time we moved beyond looking at replacing light bulbs and looked to radical new solutions instead.

Do you think people care about the environment? Do you? What do you think needs to happen for real change to come about?

Have your say on the forum:
www.spunout.ie/forum/php-BB-3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=1377