We need more than 10 easy steps

The ways in which cultures around the world think of and use the environment is fascinating. It seems as if the way we relate to nature is directly related to the societal culture that we are surrounded by. So, what is it about American culture that makes us a leader in environmental genocide?

Maniates seems to think of environmental degradation as a problem of perception. That is, when Americans think of the solution as simplistic and our role minimal, we continue to perpetuate the cycle. Environmental leaders who frame the solution to one of the most challenging problems of today as easy only deepen the American obsession with that which is fast and effortless.

Perhaps, as Maniates suggests, we need to rework the conversations we are having in order to change the way we think of our society’s impact, and ultimately “fire(d) our individual and communal imagination, creativity and commitment.” Of course, we shouldn't expect much environmental change if we don't expect much change from the primary environmental abusers.