Chris Jepson: A moral step for a better tomorrow

“The dilemma: whether to stop the destruction [environmentally of the planet] for the sake of future generations, or the opposite, just go on changing the planet to our immediate needs.” — Edward O. Wilson

Wilson’s quote sums the human condition up nicely, wouldn’t you say? Either we continue as we have (destroying the environment) or we modify our behaviors, creating a more sustainable human presence on Mother Earth. It’s amazing to me that what ought to be obvious to the most casual (even uninformed) observer is that we are wreaking havoc on that which created and sustains us, planet Earth. “Why is that?” is a legitimate question.

I believe in global warming. To the degree (ha! No pun intended) that it is a factor of human activity and is debatable only to those who do not rely on science in their decision-making. As bad—to me—as global warming is, is the worldwide loss of habitat and species.

I think it would have been more effective to drive home (to the general public) since Earth Day 1970 the loss of plant and animal diversity on the planet rather than the ultimate focus on global warming. The loss of some dewy-eyed (anthropomorphized) little creature as a result of human activity (clear-cutting forests, mining/petroleum development, urban growth, etc.) is a far more understandable, emotional and effective “hook” than rising CO2 levels. But even that approach—playing the dead animal card—is questionable as demonstrated by the fact that 96 elephants are “allegedly” slaughtered every day in Africa for their ivory. And that the carnage continues unabated. At some point there will be no more tears.

Earlier, I asked, “Why are we wreaking such environmental havoc on planet Earth?” I am actually a little more understanding of my fellow man on this issue.

Approximately 250 years ago — in the blink of an eye historically speaking — the Industrial Revolution began and man and his relationship to nature radically changed. It’s only been in the last 50 years or so that humankind has realized what an unequivocal pox we are on the environment. But in the time it took to recognize this incontestable fact, the population of the planet soared to 7 billion on the way to 9 billion people this century.

So what do we do? What can we realistically do? How do you save what’s left of the planet when so many are bellying-up to the feeding trough, the bar wanting fed? Not only fed but driven around in air-conditioned cars to their vacation homes with 2.5 toaster ovens and hot water on demand? Every human being on the planet wants exactly what the middle class in America takes as its birthright. And I do not fault anyone for that.

We know what we’re doing — the environmental destruction of our home — yet we mustn’t become disillusioned. Despair, while an understandable response, is not a solution. We must act together; and we can on Nov. 4.

Vote for Amendment 1 (The Water and Land Conservation Amendment) to the Florida Constitution. It’s an amendment that — without any tax increases — helps protect Florida’s rivers, springs and beaches. It will help keep our drinking water safe.

It is not a cure for all that ails Florida’s environment, but it’s a moral step — an appropriate step — in the right direction. And that, dear reader, is where any journey or solution begins.

Please take this step with me. Vote for Amendment 1.