Can We Save The Earth? Some say no.

There are some in the environmental movement who think we have already lost the battle against Climate Change. We should admit defeat - that collapse is inevitable and we should prepare for a different and more limited world. I'm not sure about admitting defeat, but people like Paul Kingsnorth and The Dark Mountain Project may have something to teach us about the new world of deteriorating climate and the rampant disregard for a whole world's ecology.

Most of us know we need to reverse the flow of greenhouse gases. Some even know of good ways to accomplish this reversal. The question is, of course, why we have yet to make any significant start on making that reversal happen?

There are many technological things we know will have some effect. Renewable energy, mass transit, conservation are some that come to mind. Why aren't they all being pursued vigorously many ask? It's all about politics or economics or cultural differences most would say. Where Kingsnorth and others have something to say is the suggestion that human cultures just aren't up to the task of saving the whole world. I think they might be right about us not being up to the task. If you and I aren't ready to change things, how can we expect the rest of humanity not to slide towards extinction?

We have many excuses, of course. The science isn't complete or is just plain wrong is one I hear from those who haven't read or bothered to understand the proofs of climate change. I say, "read the reports - check it out for yourself". When you have knowledge you are half way to solving the problem. Big business profits from the status quo. Well yes it does, but only if you are willing to live with the status quo. The really big excuse is that the problem is just too large and complicated to be solved by you and me. OK that one is what moved Kingsnorth to start his Dark Mountain Project. He decided he couldn't attack the problem directly.

Moving the world culture is just too difficult and complicated so he decided on a project to change individuals instead. I agree with the basic precept here. We really do need to change people if we want to change the world.

 I'm not quit ready to give up the idea of us being able to reverse climate change; however. What you and I can do individually may be small, but just think about how much can be accomplished if all 7 billion humans each did a little. Worldwide collective action might not be possible yet, but each of us must take responsibility for doing what we can.

When warming causes oceans to rise, lawns are hard to mow.