Generational genocide is not a term to use lightly; but, that is precisely what is happening with U.S. environmental policy today. Reversing the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources is not only poor economics but a direct attack on the health of this and future generations. What logic supports the removal of coal discharge restrictions to waterways of the U.S.? What logic supports the removal of restrictions on the use of known toxic pesticides, herbicides and toxic chemicals that leach into our ocean, waterways and food? What logic supports the removal of Science Advisory Boards to the U.S. EPA and other government offices, whose sole role is to insure the accuracy and quality of research? The logic is the corporate quarterly profit report and not the protection of health and the environment for America's young people.
The polluters will be old or dead when the tab comes due but that cost is an existential threat to the lives of youth living today and their future progeny. Ignoring that fact without taking time critical action is generational genocide!
As technology and the pace of modern civilization speeds up, policy makers must look further ahead. Presently that is not what they are doing. There view is fixated on the shiny hood ornament of short term profit. Young people today are savvy and see the folly and danger of the current trend. They are fighting back, in en masse and with one loud clear voice. We will not allow you to destroy our future.
The polluters will be old or dead when the tab comes due but that cost is an existential threat to the lives of youth living today and their future progeny. Ignoring that fact without taking time critical action is generational genocide!
As technology and the pace of modern civilization speeds up, policy makers must look further ahead. Presently that is not what they are doing. There view is fixated on the shiny hood ornament of short term profit. Young people today are savvy and see the folly and danger of the current trend. They are fighting back, in en masse and with one loud clear voice. We will not allow you to destroy our future.
Sixteen year old Greta Thunberg of Sweden is striking from school because "...what is the use of learning facts if we have no future." She has spoken before the United Nations Joint Assembly, Swedish Parliament, the World Economic Forum, and the European Parliament. Her work has contributed to the EU setting aside $1.3 Trillion over the next seven years for climate change and sustainable development. Millions of school children have joined her and are striking around the world with ever greater momentum. Greta is autistic and has been diagnosed on the spectrum with Asbergers syndrome. She says it gives her a perspective outside the usual social games most people are so fond of." She is brilliant and focused entirely on the scientific facts that warn civilization that there are only six to 10 years before the planet reaches a tipping point. After that there will be nothing we can do to curb mass extinction and the collapse of civilization. Scientists around the world have supported her. The United Nations has reinforced her message. The European Union has dedicated over a trillion dollars based upon the science she deliberately and succinctly itemizes in her calm but emotional voice. Now Greta has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Perhaps it has never been more true that "A child shall lead them." From my own personal perspective it seems hypocritical for adults to demand children clean up their room when around the world, adults have created a world filled with the human waste of a greedy and self-indulgent civilization.
Perhaps it has never been more true that "A child shall lead them." From my own personal perspective it seems hypocritical for adults to demand children clean up their room when around the world, adults have created a world filled with the human waste of a greedy and self-indulgent civilization.
Photo credit: Svante Thunberg (Greta's Father)
