Continuing the conversation…
I received the following email from Grist this morning urging those of us in the academic community to pick up on the “much-needed” conversation on the future of the environment. That certainly needs to happen, though I hope we can have that conversation here and in other less academic settings. Dubya’s re-election came as a shock, I think, because for the past 4 years, I’ve been thinking “this is all temporary.” Clearly, that’s not the case. At the same time, of course, last week’s election was hardly a referendum on environmental policy, as the issue barely surfaced during the campaign, and polls still show that most Americans favor strong environmental protections. I have to wonder if it’s now up to those of us pushing for a “sustainable development” agenda (versus a strict governmental regulation strategy) to take the lead in this conversation, and demonstrate how positive environmental positions are healthy, profitable and sustainable — that is, environmentalism isn’t simply a matter of “personal virtue” (to quote Darth Cheney), but is in our interests economically, socially and politically. I’m really interested to hear what you have to say…
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j&c
I have to wonder if it’s now up to those of us pushing for a “sustainable development” agenda (versus a strict governmental regulation strategy) to take the lead in this conversation, and demonstrate how positive environmental positions are healthy, profitable and sustainable. Totally agree! That’s one of the things that I like most about green building: it is not legislated, but there are both government and private incentives for it. I think for the most part, environmental issues can be better handled through the use of incentives and education.This is one of the reasons that I have mixed feelings about the latest developments of Spain, England, Chicago and other cities requiring green building features and the States’ renewable portfolio standards. Overall, these laws have been modest and not overly burdensome on builders. As long as legislation remains like this, well behind bleeding-edge technology and using proven strategies, it should remain fair and balanced. The other advantage that these laws have is that they are based locally. It would be a great thing if these were adopted in more places. I guess I’m just afraid of this getting out of hand and ruining the progress made in this field. I hate that I’m guilty of the slippery slope argument, but the fear is still there. I know also that building codes were adopted in much the same way, as were energy codes. As long as greenness follows that same path, I will be overjoyed.
Jeff McIntire-Strasburg
I tend towards market-based solutions myself, but not “market-based” as a euphemism as “unregulated.” I like Paul Hawken’s distinction between government as the protector of civil society and business as an engine for innovation. Each are necessary in and of themselves, and also to keep the worst instincts of the other in check. Right now, though, we don’t have a true market, as business’ ability to externalize costs and government’s clear favortism towards non-sustainable business models (i.e., huge subsidies for large-scale agriculture) tip the scales in favor of the status quo.Thanks for your comments! It’s great to see some conversation started.Jeff
j&c
Paul Hawken would be in my Cabinet if I were president :DAnyways, I’m liking the conversation too. I also seem to be developing some conversation with non-environmental bloggers. What would you think about a Carnival for efficieny or conservation or biparisan environmental conversations or something like that? Yea, name needs work 😉
Jeff McIntire-Strasburg
I think sustainble development and “green business” are perfect concepts for bipartisan conversations — conservatives would likely find the “market-based” aspects appealing (as well as job-creation possibilities), and liberals would certainly like the environmental benefits and the opportunity to show that environmental protection isn’t just a touchy-feely, “treehugger” concern. How about a simultaneous post to each of our blogs suggesting something along these lines?Jeff