Comments Green Granny has made

Well done, Jon.  You've successfully shown how all the main issues are tied together.  Environment, healthcare, poverty, energy are all human rights issues. 

For too many years those who suffer the worst from the abuses of others have been hidden or, worse, condemned as somehow morally or otherwise inferior and thus deserving of what they get.  Far too many people (and former presidents) believe that economic prosperity is a sign of religious superiority.  They believe they are absolved from any responsibility for the environmental and economic injustices that cause so much suffering.  They believe that profit trumps everything except their own interests. 

I'm disgusted and angry.

The poems are heart wrenching. When will we take our country back?  When will we learn that the environment and human health are more important than corporate wealth? 

Yes Chris, voting with dollars is important, useful, satisfying, and successful.  I keep seeing corporate products now labeled "without high fructose corn syrup".  Snapple and a few bread companies are just the latest.  That's driven by consumer demand and the fact that organic foods continue to gain market share, even in this poor economy.  Voting with dollars works.  But it is not an either or proposition.  I believe that, if we want real change and real results, we must use all the tools available.  Voting with votes, writing letters, attending public rallies, peaceful demonstrations, posting on the internet etc. may prove to be useful tools for getting legislators to pay attention to what's best for all instead of only what's best for the wealthy businessmen who "buy" the elections.

The Obama campaign proves that lots of "small" money, added together, is better than just "big" money.  His campaign raised far more that Hillary.

I also believe that we must each, as individuals and in groups, "be the change we wish to see." 

Here, here!  At least another ten.  Long live grist!

As long as any country tries to follow/continue the "western model of development--governments and corporations working together to pillage as many resources as possible from what appeared to be an inexhaustible supply of them with the goal of ensuring the ongoing stability of the predominant nation-states and their ruling classes. . .", we're toast.  We all must find a different model. 

Yes, Sandwhichman, we must figure out what that "something else" was. My guess is it's a combination of things: misplaced trust in "leaders" and the wealthy, apathy born from a feeling that what we want/say/need doesn't really matter politically or otherwise, fear of losing what we already have, desire to "get rich somehow too", and just plain not paying attention. Not paying attention is probably the biggest "something else" -- and that goes for the environment and the economy. I'm amazed at the number of people who don't know anything about global warming, don't really get how it may affect them, and who figure that some leader will come up with "something" if its a "real" problem.

Thanks for keeping us updated Tom. 

You explain it well Sean.  I think you'd agree that the key is to remove "incentives" that encourage people and industries to continue their old, energy intensive polluting ways and create "incentives" for people to "do the right thing."  Tax codes, zoning regulations, infrastructure, etc are all "incentives" to behave in one way or another.  We need to make it easier for people and businesses to do what's best for the environment and society.

I look at my neighborhood.  Landlords make the most "profit" when they invest  minimum $ while collecting the maximum rent.  They have little incentive to add insulation, energy efficient water heaters and furnaces, or replace windows.  I'd like to see rental income tax credits to encourage landlords to make such investments.  Another option would be to increase property taxes on non-upgraded rental units (though the cost of that would be passed on to tenants).  As a landlord, I don't get significantly higher rents from units with replacement windows and insulated attics.  (I might get higher rents from visible upgrades like kitchen counters and new bathroom tile)  Non-cosmetic upgrades to my properties feel like "charity" -- I'm doing the right thing and feel good about it, but they reduce my "profit."  Landlords have even less incentive to improve energy efficiency since they usually don't pay the utilities -- the tenant does.

I agree with you Pompey

Let's show the US public what MTR looks like and the devestating impact on the watershed and people.  

Too many people confuse MTR with "strip mining" and think the coal companies "repair" the damage when they are done.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Blue goes Green

The US Postal Service has been adopting "green" environmental and money savings measures for years.  They even have a handy on-line CO2 calculator you can use to see what you can save by doing your postal business on-line instead of in person.
http://www.usps.com/green/

The USPS boasts the largest civilian alternative fuel vehicle fleet, 1/3 of all mail deliveries are made by foot, they are the largest recyclerer, stamps are printed with water-based inks, they are upgrading buildings with the goal of reducing energy use 30% by 2015, have built a straw bale post office, are currently building two LEED certified (or will be when they're done) processing facilities. . .

The USPS is the first mailing/shipping company to achieve Cradle-to-Cradle certification for its packaging materials (like those free Priority mailing envelopes).

The Postal Service is pioneering a "mail it back" program where customers can mail electronic gadgets for recycling instead of throwing them in a dump.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Nice post David

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Not just convenience -- price

You can buy a McD double cheese burger for a dollar -- add some fries and a Coke for another $2. No-brand "hamburger helper" costs 99 cents at discount grocery stores -- the hamburger to go with it is less than $2.00/pound.  You can fill up 4 people for under $3.00. You can't make the equivalent from scratch for that.  High fructose laden "purple juice" (as my son cynically calls it) is way cheaper than 100% grape juice (and even more so if you insist on local & organic).  Add cheap to convenient and people (especially "hard working" economically stressed people) will go for it.

Fresh fruits and vegetables (organic or not) cost more than cheap fast food, industrial meats and many frozen/boxed/McDonald's products.  Highly processed foods generally are cheaper than "whole" foods.  Salads are convenient and easy to make -- so are things like hummus on pita.  But those things generally cost more.  

Food, more than ever, is becoming a economic "class" thing.  Processed "convenience" foods simply cost less per serving.  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Very interesting Mike

Thanks.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Bummer

It's time to swamp the change.gov site with comments.  It's time to roll up our sleeves and work that much harder.  Power to the people!

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

I agree with you Tasermons

. . . and I am once again disappointed with the Sierra Club.  On Utility strikes deal with green groups allowing new coal plants to proceed posted 11 months, 3 weeks ago 6 Responses

Let's get to work now

I'm optimistic, happy, hopeful, thrilled.  But we have a lot to do.  Let's get to work.  

Energy, economy, environment -- all connected and all important.  It's time to move forward.  Let's do it!

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Don't call it "green"

Here in Ohio many people who perceive "green" as an expensive and trendy (liberal) luxury or some kind of hippie life-style choice are nevertheless making real changes that are in fact "green."  People are planting gardens to "save money" rather than to be "green" (as they've done off and on for generations).  People are looking for energy efficient appliances, replacing windows, adding home insulation, etc to "save money" on electric bills.  They don't think of it in terms of saving the environment.  People are carpooling or biking (I can't believe how many more bikers I see this year compared to last)or taking the bus because filling up the car is just too expensive.  Thrift store purchases are up, library visits are up.  Frugalality -- of necessity or choice -- is frequently "green."  

Many people I meet, who are doing tons of environmentally positive things, would never call themselves "green" (and might be offended should someone else call them "green").  In their minds they are being wise, conservative, and careful with their finances.  They've never heard of Michael Pollan but they shop at the farmer's market and "pick your self orchards" for the seasonal bargains/value/fun of it. Others are yearning for some idealistic "simpler" and less hectic life-style that has little to do with global warming concerns.

The average man on the street here perceives "green" to mean "$4 fair trade organic lattes" or $25 hemp shopping bags or baggy organic cotton clothes and "doing yoga".  They think "green" is a brand, a style, a social statement that is the latest young liberal professional elite version of yuppies.  

There are many shades of green and many kinds of "greens."  I heartily agree that we need to equate "green" with efficiency and frugality (waste not want not with resources of all kinds).  Far too many people (including many who call themselves green) see "green" as a form of consumption -- it's what you buy that makes you green (from organic vegetable protien imitation hot dogs to bamboo flooring). To others green is some kind of psuedo religion.

Perhaps we should stop calling it "green."  Almost everybody thinks energy independence and lower energy costs, less pollution, economic stimulation, infra-structure improvements, savings from efficiency, clean water, etc are "good" things whether or not they believe in global warming or give two hoots about endangered species.  Let's concentrate on the shared common ground. Let's show people how environmentally friendly initiatives benefit them where they feel it most -- in their pocket books and in their quality and quantity of life.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Thanks

Thanks for adding a fun new word to my vocabulary -- "congresscritters".  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

All good points

Larry Beinhart over at commondreams.org makes some great (IMHO) suggestions: http://www.commondreams.org/view/2008/09/27-0

He suggests that, instead of spending a trillion dollars or so to bail out Wall Street, we spend half that to invest in:

1. National health. Thereby making our older industries, burdened with health insurance commitments more competitive.

2. Protecting our coastlines. Thereby protecting ourselves against the huge losses from hurricanes like Katrina & Ike.

3. Investing in alternative energy, particularly wind and solar, and rebuilding the electrical grid to facilitate that. The work required to do that could not, for the most part, be outsourced. The jobs and the business would stay here.

4. Rebuilding our infrastructure generally. Good, efficient infrastructure makes business easier, quicker and cheaper.

5. Buying up individual problem mortgages.

6. Setting up a federal bank to make emergency loans to businesses and individuals who have come into harms way as a result of the crisis created by the Bushocrats and the Titans of Banking. When they're busy scaring us into this greatest of all heists in human history, they always talk about how it will affect "small business owners" who won't be able to make payroll, and the jobs and homes lost, to average folks on main street. If they need taking care of, let's do it directly, instead of through the rip-off artists who created the crisis.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Randy

Lots of great points.  But people are waking up.  They just aren't using exactly the same vocabulary as environmentalist.  When the consequences of policy affect them in their wallet, body, and back yard they start to care.

I just spent a week in Put-in-Bay.  (The end of September is when the gray haired crowd hits the island and all the party harty youngsters have gone back to school) There is some reason for hope.  First, driving through rural North Western Ohio the Obama/Biden signs outnumbered the McCain/Palin ones (surprised me).  Two, at the bed and breakfast where I stayed there were two conservative couples and two liberal couples.  The B&B host noted that all 4 couples could agree that something is "fundamentally wrong" -- with the economy, with the environment, with our government.  Global warming per se never really came up, but great concern was expressed about the pollution of our water, air, and soil.  One of the uber-Republicans worried about dead zones (there's one in Lake Erie now according to him), knew what a CAFO is (thanks to e-coli scares), thought mountain top removal was possibly "sinful", and was beginning to wonder if anybody in Washington ever listened.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Hear me roar!

mreinbold, the women of my generation and many before worked and fought hard for women's "liberation."  Ms. Palin actually opposes many of the things we struggled for -- like reproductive rights, information, and access to birth control.

She is a far right evangelical Christian whose been believes the war in Iraq is "holy", who tried to fire a librarian who was unwilling to remove "objectionable" books from the town library.  Palin believes creationism should be taught in schools along with "abstinence only" sex education.  Ms. Palin does not represent most feminists.

Women's lib will lose much ground with a VP like her.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Pangolin

That was FUNNY.  Thanks.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Yes

"People need to understand that there just is not enough oil under American soil to bail us out."

Most people, it seems, don't understand this.  We need to support and encourage and push for more public education on this.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Palin is scary greyfalcon

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Look to the EU

If a substance is banned in the EU for safety reasons, I don't really care what the FDA has to say.  On Common chemical in food containers not a health threat, says FDA posted 1 year, 3 months ago 8 Responses

Not surprising

Little the Bush admin does surprises me any more.  What surprises me is that Bush was re-elected in 04.  How did that happen?  I still don't get it.On Sen. Boxer none too happy about feds' attack on ESA posted 1 year, 3 months ago 11 Responses

You may be on to something ipso. . .

Powerful men (and not-so-powerful men) generally do appear to be oblivious/blind to the waste/giant messes they generate except when they are the ones cleaning up.

Interesting observation.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Well said Russ

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Either or?

I agree with joeblueskies.  No one need be limited to either industrial meat products or a vegan diet.  There are many options in the middle -- including buying directly from a farmer you trust.
Being an omnivore also does not require that someone eat meat every day -- as if the choice was either animal products and milk or only vegetables.
It is possible to raise animals "humanely".  Pet owners do.  Those who use draft animals do.  And many small farmers who raise chickens, sheep, and cows do.  What is "inhumane" to both humans and animals is the industrial model that dominates our food supply.

No matter how ethically superior a vegan diet may be, most people will continue to eat animals.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Buy direct from the farm

Buy your milk directly from the farmer.  You can see for yourself how well the cows are cared for.  Your farmer gets 100% of the profit (which helps him and your local economy).  You get a superior product for the price.  Some farmers will even bring the milk to you -- at the Farmer's Market or a convenient "pick up point".

Sadly, we've seen over and over again that big corporations put profit ahead of ethics.  Horizon is just the latest example.On Why that organic label on your milk doesn't tell the whole story posted 1 year, 6 months ago 25 Responses

Not Enough

US auto makers and our legislators can do better than that.  Or maybe American car manufacturers will just continue to lose market share. . .On Feds set fuel-economy benchmarks for automakers posted 1 year, 7 months ago 7 Responses

Good for you redwing

And you might find riding you bike is just plain fun!

I want oil subsidies invested in physically separated bike lanes and paths that go everywhere major roads go (I've had a few "scary" near misses with oblivious or maybe just "mean" drivers).  I also want improved public transportation that is convenient and easy to use.  On Oil execs questioned on high oil and gasoline prices posted 1 year, 7 months ago 7 Responses

I agree with biodiversivist

We need physical separation.

I've been run off the road in broad daylight by oblivious drivers who swerved ever so slightly at 35 or 40 mph as they reached for a cell phone(?) switched the radio dial(?) or scratched an itch(?)  I've also had the un-nerving experience of a huge pick-up "tail gating" my berm hugging bike at 15 mph instead of passing me (despite no other traffic) and then honking at me like I was supposed to speed up or get off the road. I feel safest on designated bike paths -- but they just don't go everywhere I do.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Amen

On Southern Baptist leaders urge action on climate change posted 1 year, 8 months ago 3 Responses

Now its on the table

Both Obama and the Clintons are putting "green" issues on the "agenda" by mentioning them.  More and more people are beginning to think about alternative energy and the monetary and climate costs of fossil fuels.  (I wish they'd both also talk more about food issues. . . but maybe some day)

I attended an Obama rally in Ohio.  When he mentioned the environment, there was little reaction.  When he described the many benefits of "green collar" jobs, the crowd cheered and maybe 25% stood up.  Politicians have emphasized the "costs" of environmental protection and energy conservation for far too long.  It is refreshing to hear candidates describe the economic, social, and environmental benefits of "going green".  

In response to your observation that Americans vote emotionally -- you bet we do.  Great leaders inspire.  A good leader does not have to be an expert on anything but he or she does have to recognise an expert (and know enough to be able to weigh the facts) and "lead"/cajole/inspire the rest of us to listen and act upon expert advise.  It's true of teachers, managers, coaches, CEO's, parents, and politicians.  I can't think of very many great coaches who were also great athletes.  "Leadership" is a specific skill set that the rest of us frequently recognize on a "gut" level.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

One more reason

Just one more reason to NOT vote for Hillary.  And one more reason to demand CHANGE in Washington.  And one more reason to buy directly from farmers you know and trust.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

My fellow Ohioan

Dennis is an honorable and dedicated citizen.  I admire his personal committment to living his values and respect him tremendously.  But he was never a viable candidate -- and he knew it.

Kucinich made a conscious sacrifice when he ran for president.  He ran to put important issues -- primarily environmental and social justice issues -- on the table.

America may not be ready for vegan President who lives within a relatively small "foot print", but I appreciate what he does and has done.

I hope he continues to represent Ohio and serve our nation for a long, long time.On Dennis Kucinich drops presidential bid posted 1 year, 10 months ago 10 Responses

Wow

Now, if WalMart can be just as enthusiastic and creative about their workers. . .

Wouldn't it be great if they used some of the savings gained from "green" initiatives to pay their workers a "living wage" so that none of their full-time employees with dependants need food stamps, medicaid, and subsidized housing  -- all of which cost tax payers more than what WalMart produces in taxes.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

More parallels

Very good observation.  And there are even more parallels:

There are certain things built into the system that promote obesity and obstruct efforts to prevent it -- like high fructose corn syrup as a top five ingredient in virtually every processed food from crackers to peanut butter which adds nothing but cheap empty (high) calories to the diet.  And there's evidence that high fructose corn syrup may actually slow down the brain's "I'm full" response so you eat even more.  How about the high level of fat in most processed foods and the work-a-holic, fast paced life so many Americans lead the makes processed foods a "necessity".  How about the unavailability of affordable fresh fruits and vegetables in many urban low-income areas?

Similarly, high energy consumption is practically forced upon us in the form of infra-structure and zoning laws.  If you don't want to live in a low-income, grimy, slumy, high-crime inner city, you move to the suburbs where there may not be public transportation and nothing is within walking or biking distance.  Very few homes were built or are built with energy efficiency or renewable energy or environmental impact in mind.  Driving is the easiest way to get anywhere -- just as eating high fat processed foods is easier.

Just as sustained weight loss requires profound life-style changes, sustainable environmental impact changes require significant infra-structure and legal changes.  Life-style changes don't have to be a "sacrifice".   They might even be life enriching/enhancing.  But they must be attainable whether we're discussing weight or foot print.
 

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Feel Good = "Hope"

I think you are on to something GreenMom.  This election is already about more than issues.  It's about feelings -- anger and frustration at the way things get done in Washington.  People demand change.  They want to be represented by elected officials who hear them and care about their concerns.  "Experience" is a liability because it represents ties to the current system.  And people think the current system is corrupt in both main parties. They want to empty out Washington and start over (and they did that in 06 -- incumbants of both parties tended to lose).

People hope Obama represents such a major change in players that is has to be good.  Edwards makes a great case for change and fixing what's broken -- but he's been on the Washington scene for a while and people think that means he's tainted or part of the same game. . . To win, he's going to have to convince the people that he really is different, as different as Obama.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

I take exception. . .

DR, I happen to like hippie camp fire music :)

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Hope you're wrong Amazing

I know the stereo-type is that all white Southerners are racist evangelicals . . . But really, Amazing, do you believe that?

Hillary's self-proclaimed "experience" may well be a bigger liability than her gender.  She has lots of experience with the same-old-same-old ugly political scene of back room secret handshakes with PACs and businessmen. And she seems to think that's how it must be -- Ms. Philippi and the last month or so of negative campaign ads are just the latest examples of Hillary's mindset.  She thinks big business decides elections and a very few voters.  I hope this is the year voters take back the elections.  I expect record participation levels in the primaries and general election.  And I expect we will see record number of 20-somethings voting too.  

Relying on our youth may be foolish -- but they may surprise you.  Voter apathy is more about pathetic choices than laziness.  If your choice is between two more-or-less-equal "evils", why bother.  I cannot remember a more inspiring candidate than Obama since JFK.  And I hear a lot of 40-plus somethings talking about him too.

Remember, many of the "over 45" crowd grew up AFTER the Civil Rights Movement.  And many of the 60 somethings participated in it or were changed by it.  Old people are not necessarily opposed to change nor are they racisit/genderist.

Sadly, if Hillary fails to be nominated, many will say its because of gender rather than her Senate voting record, proposed policies (like mandatory health insurance paid for by individuals whether they want or can afford it), the company she keeps, the cronies she appoints, how she financed her campaign, and her "political strategies".  If Obama is nominated, the color of his skin will get far more attention than it deserves.  Focus instead on his ideas.  Focus on his abilities. Does it really matter what color his skin is (or what size shoe he wears or what his Astrological sign is or . . .)?

If nothing else, I am personally impressed that Obama is financing his campaign without money from PACs.  I am personally impressed that he is campaigning and thinking outside the box and making it work.  I am pleased to see a candidate who is not a member of the "old boys club".  Hillary may have big ovaries, but she's still a "good ole boy".

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Wonderful collection of quotes ridgerunner

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Greta

Do you mean UPS or USPS?  They are entirely different.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

It takes LOTS of water to grow corn. . .

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Caniscandida

First, thank you for your compassionate explanation of where the Christian right is coming from.  It is difficult not to succumb, at a gut level, to down-right disgust and disdain for their so-called values and thus dismiss them all out of hand.

Second, your description reminds me of similar ones about other "conservative" religious groups.  When you wrote, ". . . they consider themselves to be a beleaguered, nearly powerless minority, struggling as best they can amidst a boastfully godless and hedonistic majority who have for too long commanded all access to power," Arab terrorist, Israeli Zionist, Hindu extremist, etc could easily be subsituted for conservative Christian.

Similarly, your assertion that "It is not surprising that with their mentality of a beleaguered minority, the evangelicals demand an uncompromising orthodoxy on matters regarding their political agenda, and have no tolerance for any ideas that may encourage their fraternizing with liberals and secular humanists, such as those concerning environmentalism, creation care and global warming." could be applied to why there is as yet no peace in the Middle East.  It also explains why any number of countries such as Yugoslavia, Lebanon, and India suffered bloody civil wars.

It is absolutely right and necessary to try to compassionately understand the motivations of all "extremists".  It is also absolutely necessary and right to call a spade a spade and unveil for all their narrow-minded and un-Christ-like beliefs as DR does:
"These "values" uniformly require sacrifice and pain from other people, and bring only benefit (tax cuts!) to those who hold them. Awfully convenient, isn't it, when all God asks of you is to hate, condemn, and marginalize Others."
"Almost like He's just there as a hovering, ghostly justification for fear and tribalism. Almost like a certain kind of person is drawn to a religious perspective that offers maximum sanctimony and asks minimal sacrifice."

I hope that the "moral minority" seriously ponders one day "What would Jesus do?".  Surely he would not advocate the murderous invasion of Iraq or the wanton, wasteful destruction of the environment and squandering of natural resources.
And I find it difficult -- practically impossible -- to consider Richard Land and other such "religious leaders" as Christian.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

I am so glad you are covering this issue

Our love and concern for our children often increases our concern and drives our action to improve the environment.  Protecting our children and protecting "mother nature" are the same thing.

We humans are imperfect parents and imperfect environmental stewards -- but with the best of intentions and a lot of effort, things usually turn out very well.

Parenthood is a learning experience.  Life is a learning experience.  Covering this issue in a down-to-earth less holy than thou way is to be applauded.

I was far from a perfect mother (just ask my kids) and I mostly did it alone. It is heartwarming to see my children perpetuate some of the traditions I started -- their fondest memories include baking bread with me, "primitive" camping where we strove to leave the camp site as pristine as we found it and delighted in deer nibbling on berries within feet of us, having a garden, bike races to the farmers market (winner gets the 1st apple dumpling). . .  I took the TV out of our home for 4 years -- and my children still think taking turns reading out loud is a first rate form of entertainment (although my son says he really was traumatized by not seeing every episode of Power Rangers when everybody at school was talking about nothing else). On Reflections on protecting your offspring without losing your sanity posted 2 years, 2 months ago 2 Responses

My CSA

My CSA does not raise pork -- just dairy cows and chickens (mostly for the eggs) in addition to a wide variety of veggies.  There is a farmer at my local farmer's market who raises "organic" pigs, but I refuse to buy anything from her(animal or vegetable).  First, she will not disclose how the pigs are housed and what a given "pig day" looks like.  She also refuses to disclose who slaughters them and how its done.  Third, she does not allow customers to visit her farm "for health and safety reasons." (She won't even show pictures of her farm)  All these things combine to be big red flags for me.

I don't think pigs are naturally dirty.  When I was a little girl, my father and I used to regularly walk past a pasture that had a few trees and a bunch of pigs.  I called them "the green pigs" because they were so clean that, at the right angle, their tummies reflected the grass beneath them and they looked green!

Then again, when I was in a so-called 3rd world country, I witnessed semi-wild pigs eating raw sewage and garbage in the ditches along the road.  Yuck.

Pigs are smarter than dogs -- according to some scientists and an aquaintance of mine who has a pet pot belly.  I never ever eat dogs.  I can't really bring myself to eat pigs.  Add to it all, I read Charlotte's Web in elementary school.

Any more, the older I get, the more I care about how the food I eat was cared for.  I want my veggies grown locally and "organically" in healthy soil.  I want my milk products to come from "happy", healthy, non-anti-biotic-ed, grass fed/pastured  cows who I can drive by/visit.  Whether or not "we are what we eat", I want "happy" and healthy food only. To me, that's what sustainable and environmental means. On Umbra on organic pork posted 2 years, 3 months ago 19 Responses

Come on Common Sense

I live in Ohio.  Oranges, rice, bananas, coffee, and chocolate do not grow well here.  But ever since the 1800's and the Erie Canal, people (including our local farmers) in Ohio have imported these precious luxuries.  Yes, we can survive without them, but they sure are a pleasant addition to the local fare.

The key no matter where you live, is what our grandparents and great-grandparents had without much intellectualizing:  mindful moderation.  They had a concept of "enough", of "plenty", and a seemingly unconscious way to measure the pros/cons/implications of choices.  Thrift was their way of life and they knew how to recognize and enjoy a luxury when they saw/enjoyed it -- like chocolate.

I am sure that with enough water, heated enclosures, genetic engineering and other high-resource expenditures, we could force bananas or coffee or rice, etc to grow in Ohio.  But would that make any sense?  

Trade is something humans have engaged in, even over quite large distancea, since caveman days.  Can't we rediscover ways to trade without destroying the planet?  And aren't the real issues about the wasteful and destructive and non-common-sensical ways some foods are grown, harvested, and then transported?

I absolutely and religiously buy from local farmers only those agricultural products that grow well, naturally, in Ohio.  And I ride my "old lady" bike to procure them as much as possible.  And I also feel truly fortunate to enjoy my cup of coffee, or rice, or banana, etc. from time to time (or daily even).

Why are we complicating everything?  Have we all really lost touch that much?

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Stubborn Indifference

This morning my email inbox contains a reply from my senator:
"Dear Friend:
Thank you for contacting me about reforming the 2007 Farm Bill. It is a privilege to participate in improving this vital legislation.
As you know, this year Congress will consider the Farm Bill--a wide ranging piece of legislation that will help determine the country's agricultural policy. An important part of the bill will be programs that aim to alleviate poverty and hunger. The Food Stamp program is incorporated into this legislation and I am working hard to ensure that funding for this vital program is increased. On average, the typical recipient of food stamps receives only $21 a week in assistance. That's only $3 dollars a day, and that is unacceptable. In a country as vibrant and wealthy as the United States, there is no reason why any man, woman, or child should ever go to bed hungry.
America's farmers fuel our country and feed the world, but too often we have pursued agricultural policies that harm the very people we are trying to help. I am hopeful that the Farm Bill will continue to help American farmers while improving the livelihoods of subsistence farmers in the developing world. Protecting the environment has always been a top priority of mine and I am working to ensure that conservation efforts, like the Wetlands Reserve Program and Conservation Reserve Program, are included and properly funded in the bill. We must also guarantee a safety-net for farmers and work to provide support to the small and mid-size farmers who need it most.
Again, I thank you for writing, and I will certainly keep your thoughts in mind as we continue to work on this piece of legislation and end hunger in America."

On the eve of the House vote, I emailed and called my congressman.  He voted for the bill and against the "Fairness" amendment.  Oh, well. He rarely votes "my way" on anything.

The strange thing to me is that my CSA farmer and my cow share farmer do not share my passion for Farm Bill reform.  They're indifferent.  They plan to keep doing what they're doing regardless.  They've made a go of it without the government (or in spite of the federal government) and don't expect anything different.  Sure, it'd be nice, but. . . Their focus is on local food for local people and local policies that affect local everything.  

And locally we've made incredible progress in the last decade.On For now, local politics is the way to effect ag-policy change posted 2 years, 3 months ago 8 Responses

I look forward to the rest of the story. . .

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Diappointed

I was disappointed that my Rep. voted against the proposed "Fairness Amendment".  I called his office and emailed on Wednesday.  All I can say is that I hope they come up with something better between now and September.  And to think we were all so happy to see the Democrats gain so many seats. . .
Sigh.On At Last, Some Consensus posted 2 years, 4 months ago 2 Responses

Wiscidea

I love your idea of a biodiversity challenge.  

And in case I've not said it before, your regular comments here at Grist are always intelligent and often inspiring.  I appreciate and enjoy your contributions to the discussions.  Thanks.

And you are right.  It really doesn't matter how or who convinces Joe Consumer to protect the environment.  And as much as I am annoyed by green-washing campaigns, they nevertheless do a lot to "advertise" the environment and make people aware.  Very few things are black and white or all or nothing. . .  And belly laughs (especially when we're finding humor in our own behavior) are good for the soul.On Why Do I Still Feel So Hollow? posted 2 years, 4 months ago 8 Responses

Its like the dancing lump of coal

Get into debt, and put 1% of your debt load -- at no cost really to the credit card company -- to offset your consumption.  You can feel good, and GE can get richer.  Maybe I need to start selling offsets.  I'll cover my entire yard with trees and volunteer at a state or national park for a small "guilt" fee.

BP is supposedly embracing the environment. . .and planning to dump more toxins directly into Lake Michigan.  I bet they'd be happy to give you a gas credit card and donate 1% of you "debt" to them toward offsets for your gas habit too.

Actions count too.  Neither company is really putting its money where its mouth is.  But they'll be happy to use some of your money. . .

Yeah, call me jaded.  I've been around a while.  Nothing is really new.On Why Do I Still Feel So Hollow? posted 2 years, 4 months ago 8 Responses

Yes,

I like your analogy -- his evil keeps going, and going, and going. . .

So what are we the American people going to do about this?  Are we just going to throw our hands up and wait for 2008?

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Ha, HA, Ha, HA. . .

"The GE Money Earth Rewards Platinum MasterCard -- hang on, have to take a belly-laugh break."  Me, too.  I can't read this with a straight face.  Who do they think they are kidding?  Clean coal and "debt" to the environment!!On Why Do I Still Feel So Hollow? posted 2 years, 4 months ago 8 Responses

Vegan Farmers

Are there many vegan farmers?  

I appreciate Tom Philpott's input on this thread.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Endless Possibilities

Many good points, Peter.  "Accentuating the Positive" fosters hope and enthusiasm and creative thinking. . .  Attitude is contageous.

There's a "truism" that you will find what you're looking for.  Its also true that you get more of what you encourage.  Personally, I don't want more fear and doom and gloom.

Fear (and guilt) are lousy motivators.  Positive reinforcement works much better -- on pets and people.

A "positive feature" I recently read is the US Postal Service is striving to be "green".  The Postmaster General recently announced that Priority Mail shipping materials are now certified "cradle-to-cradle".
http://www.usps.com/communications/newsroom/2007/pr07_051 ...

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Most Disturbing

What makes Sajida's death (and the illness and deaths of her neighbors) more tragic is the Bisasar Road Dump is hailed as "environmentally friendly" AND is a SOURCE OF CARBON CREDITS.

The World Bank and S. African government are . . . well I can't say anything nice. . .culpable.

For more info:
http://www.fpif.org/pdf/reports/SR0502wbank.pdf
http://www.carbontradewatch.org/news/trusha.html
http://www.corpwatch.org/article.php?id=11893
http://climatejustice.blogspot.com/2005/12/carbon-project ...

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Enjoyed this story

I have long admired Sweden's bicycle roads, mass transit systems, and municipal hot-water heat that also melts snow and ice on key roads and sidewalks in several towns and cities, not just Vaxjo.  Add to that wonderful nationwide health care, child care, and education systems. . . not to mention dedication to military neutrality and peace keeping. They are a model for other nations to imitate.

I am far more concerned about cooling my home than with heating it, however.  Hot, muggy, midwestern summers are down right uncomfortable without central air.  I've managed to make it through most of June without turning on my central air (supposedly "energy efficient")but I don't know that I'll manage to make it through July and August with just a few fans.

Any suggestions on staying cool other than camping out in a swimming pool?

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Great comeback

I'm adding it to my memorized list of "how to respond when there is no good way to respond" situations. In fact, I think I'll use it on my boss next time he resists new ideas just because. . .

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Check out the message board

The comments on the message board are as interesting to me as the article.  We "older" folks are not as out of touch or "anti-green" as many young people (or those who run AARP) assume.  And, increasingly, many of us who were making solar barbeques and talking about ecology and recycling our jeans by turning them into purses and patchwork. . . back in the early 70's are now well old enough to join the ranks of AARP.  A friend of mine and her husband moved to a retirement community in Florida a little over a year ago.  Some of the reasons they chose that particular community was its conservationist, protect natural habitat, energy efficient condos, (life-time medical care, assisted living options also)etc.  I visited last winter and shared the great pleasure of watching the mantee and her baby that live in the river by their place -- and the birds and. . .

I'm glad AARP finally ran an article about global warming.  It's a good sign that environmental concern is becoming increasingly mainstream. We must seize the chance to improve our legacy and to leave our children and grandchildren a lovely planet.  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Good for you, Tom

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Cultural Geography

Gas prices, fuel availability, improvements in urban public transit, the construction of bike & pedestrian friendly roads, a cultural shift in attitude toward cars all may make driving less appealing to large numbers of people.  But appealing or not, the logistics of driving less in the US are difficult at best. The success of European public transportation has much to do with the pattern of settlement.  

Relatively few Europeans live 15 to 50 miles from their place of employment. A 40 minute commute to work is common (if not the norm) in much of the US.  In Europe, the most desirable neighborhoods tend to be the closest to city centers.  Its the opposite here.  Suburban commuter services -- park and ride bus and trains -- add significantly to commute time.  Few people are willing to add 20 minutes each way to work.  Furthermore, many employers require schedule flexibility (staying late, coming in early, etc) that commuter services cannot easily accomodate.

Moving back to the city is no solution for many. Places of employment have increasingly moved away from the cities.  Corn fields have sprouted lots of "industrial parks" next to major highways outside cities in the Midwest in the last few decades.  The best paying jobs (white and blue collar) have moved, and now everybody must commute -- not just those in the suburbs.

Improving urban transportation is nice, and changing public attitudes toward private vehicles is wonderful, but our culture and supporting infrastructure, housing patterns, and manufacturing centers are thoroughly based on the culture of cars.  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

The Church and Population Control

Its not that the Church opposes birth control so much as it favors SEX CONTROL.  While for many couples sex is a gratifying expression of love and affection, and a wonderful fulfillment of certain primal needs, it's only purpose according to the Church is procreation.  Unless you wish to procreate (or at least accept the possibility of another mouth to feed) you should remain celebate.
The Church is very much in favor of celebacy and the resulting decline in the birth rate.

Of course SEX CONROL has never been very easy to achieve -- even for priests and nuns.  A little pill or some molded latex are much easier. . .and "fun".

Even if GW said one true thing out of 99 lies (use your imagination -- it could happen), I must still acknowledge that one truth.  I hope my mind would not be so clouded by anger that I would reject the one true thing he ever said.  Whatever my feelings about the Church, working less, wanting less, and spending less is good advice.  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Regulations and false assumptions

The thought that any level of regulation could be enough may be the biggest false assumption of them all.  Why do we assume that any level of environmental/food poisoning is safe/acceptable?  What kind of assumption do we make when we decide how many people harmed is few enough and how small the harm is little enough?  Several years ago son was aghast to discover there are FDA regulations about how much puss can "safely" be allowed in milk.  He wanted to know how anyone could think ANY puss was OK.  

Is any level of any poison, including those that affect the endocrine system, acceptable?  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

My mama never told me. . .

"Life's not fair".

We are a nation with a split personality.
Our culture glorifies the ruthless captialist. Yet we declare that there should be "justice for all" and find nothing wrong with the concept that "you get what you pay for" -- including legal representation.  We can't make up our collective minds whether or not to cheer for the underdog so we mostly just ignore him.

It appears to me that there are indeed two kinds of environmentalists -- those who see ecological issues tied inextricably to social justice issues and those who view ecological issues as a hindrence or boost to their own economic situation.  There are those who think in terms of "we" and those who think in terms of "me".

I doubt very much that "the days of paradise for a few are drawing to a close."  And it already is "hell for most of us" (well an awful lot of us around the world).  Warnings of increased suffering for the world's less fortunate as a reason for doing something to stem global warming falls on many deaf ears.  Most people don't expect "life to be fair".  And many don't really want it to be fair as long as they stand a chance of "winning" or at least getting ahead of the other guy.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Contact your Sen & Rep

I just wrote my senators and representative asking them to support this proposal. Email campaigns are important, but letters from individual constituents get much more attention (or so I'm told).

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Prompted me to act

. . . if only in a small way.

Very good article Tom. I wrote my two senators and my representative today and asked them to support both ideas.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Only two posted "comments" so far

Come on guys -- speak up.  Add your voice.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

FOX so-called news

I do not watch FOX.  FOX news coverage is yellow journalism at best.  If I had a list of businesses that advertise on FOX, I would boycott them.  If I had a list of celebrities who agree to appear on FOX, I'd boycott them too. But the best I can do is refuse to knowingly imbibe the hate-filled half-truths that FOX spews forth and calls "news".  It's probably for the best that you got "bumped".  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

I hope you are wrong, Z

But were we ever as stong, brave, and free as we've led everyone else to believe?  As a teenager during the Cold War I compared the Soviet constitution to the American constitution.  In some ways, the Soviet sounded better.  But actions and words and interpretations are not all related.

The up-and-coming new empires in the so-called developing world seem to want to walk in the Euro-American empire's foot steps and employ the same propaganda techniques. . .

It's time for real, positive change to the way we all think as a SPECIES.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Do as I say, not as I do. . .

Gore's message is a good one whether he "walks the talk" or not.  It's like a chain-smoking father warning his son about the dangers of cigarettes.
Celebrate the message instead of the messenger.  And there are many out there spreading the same message.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Well said PBrazelton

Excellent.  Anything, big or small, that anyone can do counts.  And usually one small effort leads to other small efforts which add up to a lot.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Good comments katwin24

And beyond that, I love the idea of an atheist/vegan Republican AND Anne Coulter spouting her garbage from Mars!  

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

National Embarassment

I'm glad at least one state recognizes what a bumbling, mean-spirited, fool we've allowed in the White House.  Bush and buddies are an embarassment to this country.  

Anyone who is not outraged at what the Republicans are doing and have done to this country (and many other countries) isn't paying attention.

Maybe I ought to move to California.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi

Encourage what you want

I say let's encourage what we want more of.  Since reading David's piece and an article at RMI, I've made a point of occasionally stopping in and buying something ORGANIC at WalMart. Ususally I'll buy a bag of apples and a 1/2 gallon of milk.  I also bought a some CFL light bulbs as a house warming gift for my daughter's new apartment.  

Vote with your dollars. Greenwashing or not, if WalMart dicovers that every step towards being green brings more customers and higher sales, they will do more.  And other companies will copy cat.

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Ghandi