May 27, 2004
A modest proposal to save the planet
By Dr. Mayer Hillman
http://news.independent.co.uk/world/environment/story.jsp?story=525198

Definitely a provocative article that has been brewing around in my mind since a friend forwarded it to me. The essence of it is as follows…

Our leaders are finally waking up to the fact that climate change, far from being a ‘green’ fantasy, is a real, imminent and potentially catastrophic threat to humanity. Yet preventative action seems to be as remote as ever. Isn’t there something we could be doing? In an extract from his acclaimed new book, Mayer Hillman advocates radical changes to the way we conduct our daily lives that would ensure a future for our children.

The “radical changes” implicate a mandatory, government imposed carbon-emission ration for each individual in every country. The idea is that these rations can be traded, bartered, sold. The proposal is that these rations are reduced over time as we learn to live “better”, as our technologies and sciences catch up.

Now… I am a great believer in the assumption of personal responsibilty in both an individual and collective sense. I will admit to worrying about the state of our planet and wondering what we collectively and individually can do about it. I am a supporter of the art of bartering. And/but, currently, the reading of this article has moved me to a combined “Brazil”, “A Clockwork Orange” and “A Handmaid’s Tale” view of the future. And this grim view of the potential of this solution intrigues me.

Perhaps I just haven’t thought it through “enough” or I don’t yet believe that we will all take this issue on “in the same way” enough to make this feel pale blue and green rather than grimy. Certainly the suggestions listed for living better can be assumed now. Voluntarily. Without strict rationing. Knowing that it is not enough. Knowing that it is a start.

Definitely to be thought about and acted upon somehow.