Declaration of New Patriotism
Global warming is the crisis of our time.
As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s birthday, we renew our commitment to the qualities and values that have guided our nation for more than 200 years.
We the undersigned, pledge to:
- Be mindful consumers, by minimizing our personal global warming “footprint;”
- Be active citizens, by pressing our elected officials to take urgent action now, and by pressing all candidates for office to commit to passing strong legislation to cut America's global warming pollution;
Please help us add to this declaration. Add your comments by clicking "Comments" or "Post a Comment" below.
Thank you.
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1,223 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1001 – 1200 of 1223 Newer› Newest»It is time to do away with patriotism, which is a provincial, small-minded concept. We are all humans, we all share the same planet, and we should take pride as individuals, and as members of humanity, not based on the accident of where we happen to be born, and the current set of ever-changing lines drawn on maps.
We must eduacate all people about global warming and must encourage them to get up and help us fight for a cleaner world for all.
Adopt the principles of Earthrights Democracy and Geonomics:
Tax Waste, Not Work;
Tax Pollution, Not Production;
Tax what we take from the Earth,
Not what we make from the Earth;
Chang our taxes, change our world - and, yes, for the better!
Remove taxes from labor and capital and charge fees on the use of our commonwealth natural environment (mineral extraction, pollution, and resource monopoly).
Then with these revenues pay for essential governmental services AND provide an equal Earth Dividend to all via Social Security, Health Savings, and an resource conserving technology conversion accounts.
This will satisfy Freedom, Fairness, and Sustainable Future interests to help create an Economically, Socially, and Ecologically more secure and prosperous world.
www.TaxShiftAlliance.org
Anne:
We are dancing on the edge of a volcano. Our country needs to stop being complacent and demand the best and the brightest of US scientists and leaders convene to promote ways of rethinking we way we consume and how we live. We'll need corporations that pollute in order to provide goods to rethink their processes. And we has humans need to curb our consumption....and make less humans. The world is really equipped to handle 500 million people -- religious as well as politicians need to see the urgency is cutting down the human population as quickly as possible.
Global Warming is the single most important issue the inhabitants of planet Earth have ever confronted. The prospect of what is to come is actually ironic. In our greed, ignorance and separatist ideologies, humans have created this situation. Now the world will either come together in this effort to survive, or remain separate and perrish.
I believe we should use real science, instead of politically correct, anti capitalist, socialist claptrap. I believe that those who find every single so called crisis Humanity's fault are blind and intentionally ignorant.
Mankind is the solution, not the problem.
No direct connection to environmental issues, but this could be a root cause of the failure of the executive branch to be accountable to the will of the people in the US. Specifically, the disconnect between the Bush Administration and the public, to reflect majority opinion on issues like global warming, the war in Iraq and women's right to choose. We need to eliminate the Electoral College and go to "Instant Runoff Voting" (IRV) for a host of reasons. Under IRV Gore would have won and we would be in an entirely different situation than we are under Bush. Under IRV we would have better, more informed debates and greater participation in our democracy. This will help elect better politicians and in a derivative way, will help us deal with local and planetary environmental issues.
Roderick
We the People and our employees, (the President, Politicians etc.) should all pledge to leave this World and all we have touched. much Cleaner, Healthier and more Sustaining than that which we have inherited.
Lest our Grand Childrenl find us wanting
I think that with this declaration we will be able to promote the fight against global warming and also be able to open the eyes of those ignorant people who don't care and/or choose to pretend that global warming isn't REAL.
LET'S STOP GLOBAL WARMING!!!
I think that people should be educated on recycling programs that are available to them in their communities. If, plastics are not collected on trash day by the city, then there is probably a once a month program in the community.
Also, reusable, grocery bags, which are readily available, would help the Earth tremendously. If, every one in ten people stopped using plastic shopping bags, then ten percent of resources used to make these bags could be saved. If those people then got one of their friends or family members to do the same, then, another ten percent would be conserved.
Small efforts, such as these, can do a lot to help save the Earth.
I believe that one of the greatest causes of environmental problems is human/inhuman overpopulation.
My loyalty is to investigation of truth and caring about others and all "otherishes".
Patriotism is living with respect for the earth and all living creatures. It is choosing to live simply so as not to overconsume the earth's natural resources.
Stopping global warming starts at our own homes, we are often easy going when it comes to other people going green but hesitant when we have to do it ourselves. Patriotism starts with changing ourselves first.
Being a patriot means doing your best to promote the welfare of the majority rather than seeking power or riches for one's self.
I think part of the preamble should include something like:
We commit ourselves to cherish and preserve our national heritage and to pass it onto future generations, for we hold it in trust to tend and preserve.
Recycling is one way to conserve--all communities (counties) in each state should have access and the resources to recycle all types of metal and plastic (#1-7, etc.). I currently have to build up a small stockpile of plastics and then take it (when I visit my parents)to a county 60 miles away from the county in which I reside in order to recycle anything besides #1 or #2 plastics and other materials. Perhaps more people would recycle more plastics if the resources existed closer to home.
Recycling is one way to conserve--all communities (counties) in each state should have access and the resources to recycle all types of metal and plastic (#1-7, etc.). I currently have to build up a small stockpile of plastics and then take it (when I visit my parents)to a county 60 miles away from the county in which I reside in order to recycle anything besides #1 or #2 plastics and other materials. Perhaps more people would recycle more plastics if the resources existed closer to home.
Patriotism is a love for our country. It is the force that moves our hearts to do the right thing, which includes defending our environment. America has been blessed with natural beauty, and as a patriot, I will work to save America.
I think that we should inform people about the importance of taking care of our planet and it's inhabatents. Thank you -Becca-
The new patriotism does not just think of wars and competing with other countries economically, but is concerned, also, with the preservation and enrichment of our own physical environment.
Patriotism is the love of one's country. This should make it clear that we should help our country and the world to stop global warming for our present and the future.
Some people think that showing respect to the American flag is a meaningful expression of patriotism. I disagree.
Our country is a land rich in many dimensions. It supports us in every way imaginable. I say, patriotism is showing respect for the trees, the rivers, the lakes. Patriotism is showing love and respect for the bighorn sheep, the salmon, the tiny shrimp in the vernal pools and the many animals who feed on them. Loving and protecting our land, our dirt, our water, our air, is true love of country.
A patriot is someone who does not let something bad happen to their country/planet on their watch (i.e. while they are adults). I remember growing up that nature was beautiful; I can't let this be the generation where it gets destroyed!
As Al Gore said, it is our moral responsibility to reduce global warming. I think people should know that everytime they CHOOSE to ignore their contribution to global warming, it is their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren whose way of life will be more difficult and regulated. Not to mention, they will be more likely to be affected by increased natural disasters.
We the undersigned pledge to:
Remember that all people are essentially one and that we need to be unified in our approach to solving this problem.
Colorado State University is presently engaged in research in bio fuels. They're developing a method to produce biofuels 5000 times more productive than anything presently being used, like soybeans and corn. What are they using? Algae, carbon dioxide and sunlight. As a partner in this venture, New Holland Brewing Company provides the carbon dioxide, a by-product of the brewing process. Carbon dioxide aids in repid growth of the algae.
The mix sits in the sun in collectors made by Solix of Boulder, Colorado. What it produces is the crude product that can be refined into alternative fuels that can be burned in any diesel engine. Blue Sun is apparently the current market leader in this industry. But they're processing plants, like soybeans. Researchers say that one acre of soybeanss produces fifty gallons of crude. One acre of collectors growing algae can produce ten thousand gallons. Thats a 5000:1 ratio. Which would you invest in? If we really want to do something positive about the global warming problem, perhaps we should invest our money in this baby industry and reap the profits, not only for personal financial gain, but for Mother Earth. I, for one, will start buying stock when this company goes public. If the trucking industry could get their fuel at $1.50 a gallon, where do you thnk they'd buy? (More information at solixbiofuels.com)
Being a patriot means having a vision of a nation in balance, with itself, its people, its resources and the world around it. It means having fresh ideas about how to live - what kinds of transportation do we really need? What kinds of communities? What kinds of education? How we respond to questions like these will have the most profound and lasting effect on our environment.
For the planet to be efficiently healed, the higher-ups of the global community must realize that the conservation of Earth and environment must transcend their obsession with profit. After all, without a planet, how do they expect to become rich? It's only common sense - without a foundation, you cannot build anything; therefore, the only logical choice is to cooperate. Earth is our foundation, and only as a global community can we build upon it and prosper. And yet, at the same time, what is taken must be repaid - it is our duty, if not our moral obligation as human beings, to keep the Earth healthy as long as she is supplying us with what we need - that is, as long as the human race still exists. Unfortunately, my generation has not realized how much they take things for granted, but I am not blind to this. I realize the damage that is being done, and I see the solution. I propose that the Declaration of New Patriotism take special care toward educating my skeptical teenage peers.
Also - just to throw an idea out there - how many of you go to the gym? I bet you are thinking "...what?"
Well, for those of you that go to the gym and run on the treadmills, wouldn't it be a feasible move to turn those treadmills into generators? When you run on them, you could be generating your own energy in a clean, efficient way, while burning calories and getting healthy (though it may cost a bit...)! Everyone, let me know what you think of that.
Recycling should be mandatory! Local governments should help residents get started and fine them for not recycling. If we are the worlds biggest consumers and largest producers of waste, wouldnt it make sense to put a cap on the amount of products we consume and waste we create?
Local governments should be encouraged to institute a pay per bag garbage disposal fee. This encourages recycling, reduces disposal costs and potentially reduces property taxes and/or allows for re-distribution of tax dollars. I am against a mandate on recycling. A mandate will require policeing while pay per bag will encourage some to recycle and non recyclers to directly pay for their environmental impact.
A new patroit is one who cares about his/her country AND the enviroment. A new patriot recycles and is proud of it. A new patriot doesn't mind taking public transportation or walking instead of driving everywhere. A new patriot helps the next generation understand how to help the earth by word and actions. A new patriot leaves as small of an enviromental footprint as possible behind, yet lives on in the minds and hearts of those that follow. A new patriot loves country and earth.
To deal with global warming we must first acknowledge its greatest cause: us - over 300 million in the United States, 6.5 billion in the world, and both numbers growing rapidly. As politically incorrect as it may be, we will never solve global warming or environmental degradation without addressing the human population growth that is causing it.
I got to ideas to Declaration: Both are related with Freedom.
It is written in your message about Declaration that Environmental Defense believe that symbolism matters... isn't an eagle in the most important symbol of U.S.A.? and there are many things related with constitution of principles of the U.S.A. related with rights and wellfare of the Nation, so those can be also mentioned as principles.
Thomas Jefferson said that Dissent was the highest form of patriotism, and it still holds true today.
Could it be the person that say's
no and means it? To stopping the
warming of this planet, to the killing of the Wolves simply because they can, to even drive less and walk more. There are many more ideas that can and do define what a Patriot is. You have only to
do it. This saying saids it best;
"Stand for something or you'll fall
for anything."
I don't know about patriotism, as I am not happy with the dynamics of the status quo, but I believe from faith that I am called to love God first, and love my neighbor as myself, and that includes anyone and everyone on this planet. I believe, as my faith informs me, that humankind is called to be a steward and caretaker of the planet, and not to destroy it nor harm it in any way, so I would say that we are all
called to watch out for one another
socially, evironmentally and in all
ways that better the common good.
I do my best to buy things made in this country. not because I believe that people in other nations should not have good-payinjobs, but because many of our nations own jobs are being shipped overseas and people ar being enslaved by our own companies for swaetshop labor, and I encourage all Americans to support their own local economies and small businesses. don't be cheap..run from the Wal-marts and the like.
If you can make something yourself that you need, appreciate the self-satisfaction that comes from that.
If not, walk or bicycle instead of driving, when appropriate. Drive a fuel efficient or hybrid or alt-fuel vehicle which does not pollute nor waste. Use a ceramic cup instead of using several plastic throw-aways. Avail yourself of any local recycling programs, if they exist in your area. Think globally, act locally, and don't be afraid to be active in your local community.
Eat non-processed, fresh and local organic produce. there are so may things.
Blessings,
HRG.
Restore as many areas (including our backyards!) to their natural state as possible, to mitigate the effects of global warming.
New patriotism: Use the very best in political psychology, as conservatives do, to get the message into every cell of every gut-level brain: Environmental sustainability will guarantee a new type of US supremacy in which the USA is respected as a healing leader, innovator, peacemaker. We will teach the poor to become rich and the rich to become richer IF we teach by example--and make sure that corporate power is diminished as wiser, more earthfriendly and decentralized power over resources is powerfully encouraged. Nontoxic alternative goods and energy innovation must be financially rewarded in all ways. People must also feel secure with their constitutional rights during the transition. People must learn that every small action has consequences that affect everyone. How can we quickly teach the reality of human mutual interdependence? This may be hard to balance out, but life has alway s been hard, and millions have given their lives throughout history just so we could get to the tense times of great opportunity for democracy in which we now find ourselves.
I think that exact statistics shoulde be included; such as the amount of CO2 that is thrown up in the air per every gallon of gasolin eburned. Also there should definatly be a section of books and novels that people can look to for further knowledge.
I have a lot of friends that litter.I'm sure there are lots of others that do too. It drives me insane. Therefore, I think the Declaration needs to inform people on why not to litter. They could do something better or more helpful with it. They could REDUCE garbage by RECYCLEing it or by REUSEing it.
"It is the duty of the patriot to protect his country from it's government" Thomas Paine
"Dissent is the highest form of Patriotism" Thomas Jefferson
God gave us this planet for humans to take care of! Are we doing that.... NOOO!
Take care of our beautiful planet.
Otherwise....
It will be GONE!!!
The core of patriotism is willingness to set aside some of your material wishes in favor of protecting the interests and the heritage, natural or otherwise, of the country and public at large. Patriotism is then the antithesis of the Bush doctrine, which denies the existence of any such thing as a public interest.
http://www.virtualcentre.org/en/library/key_pub/longshad/A0701E00.pdf
GOD
COUNTRY
FAMILY
What defines a patriot?
L patriota fellow countryman
f. patrios of one's fathers...
... 1 A fellow countryman, a compatriot. rare LI6-EI7. 2 A person devoted to his or her country; a person (claiming to be) ready to support or defend his or her country's freedom and rights. E17 b spec. A member of a resistance movement or patriotic front. M20. 3 A devotee, a supporter (of a person, cause ect.). rare M17.
IN THE ABOVE SEGMENT, TAKEN FROM THE OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARY TWO WORDS STAND OUT...SO I LOOKED THEM UP TOO...
freedom 1 Exemption or release from slavery or imprisonment (lit. & fig.); personal liberty. O.E. 2. The quality of being free from the control of fate or necessity: the power of self-determination attributed to the will. O.E. + 3 The quality of being free or noble, nobility, generosity, liberality ME- L16. 4 The state of being able to act without hindrance or restraint; liberty of action; the right of, to do...
...6 Exemption from arbitrary, despotic or autocratic control; independence; civil liberty...
...The liberty or right to practise a trade; the fee paid for this. obs.exc. Hist. E18 9 Foll. by. from. The state of not being effected by (a defect disadvantage, ect) ;
SURPRISINGLY THE WORD "rights" IS NOT IN THIS DICTIONARY...SO I LOOKED UP THE WORD IN ROGET'S THESAURUS. IT DIRECTS ONE BACK TO THE WORD: freedom AND TO THE WORD: dueness...
Dueness - N....accountability, resposibility, obligation, duty from each according to his or her ability and to each according to his or her need; the least one can do; bare minimum...
What it means to be a patriot is that we aught to all be willing to do the bare minimum...
...as I have typed this I have been listening to a man on talk radio lambasting the host for wanting to repeal The Patriot Act. When asked why he was defending the government's right to enter his home without a search warrant the caller screamed that the government has no such right. The host enquired, "have you actually READ the Patriot Act?". He said "no, it's over 1000 pages long"; but he was none-the-less prepared to waste air space defending it. I'd say THE LEAST HE COULD HAVE DONE WAS TO READ IT FIRST!
So: to be a patriot means more than to wave the flag...it means to sew the flag into your breath, into your step and into you heart and then to: speak with intelligence (be self examined and accurately informed), to tread lightly (be aware of how ones actions effect ALL others) and have an open heart (to give a damn at least once a day about something other than our own self-important, comfort driven sense of superiority and dominion over the earth)...humans are lousy fellow organisms particularly when we misinterpret patriotism.
learning about our place in the universe and world prepares us to be patriots. by learning about other people, in other countries, and our nation's impact and influence upon their development we better understand the responsibility placed upon all of us to be citizens of the world, and not just of our own neighborhoods. by learning about the interconnectedness of every creature here--plants, insects, animals, fish, bacteria, viruses, & etc.--we better understand how everything we are and everything we do has consequences for the whole world. this person is a patriot, because the behavior of this person is informed by the highest ideals of our founders: that we all deserve to live well, and free. in order for all of us (everywhere) to live well and free, we must (all of us) act, ever mindful of our place in the universe and this world.
a patriot is someone who loves and protect the GLOBE not a country...we all are sons and daughters of mother earth,we are citiziens of the blue planet.nationalism was and is the reason for lot of wars.
Form pro eco friendly lobby groups or join existing ones. ie: greenpeace,david suzuki founation etc... in politics it's all about the money ... Look at the NRA. I'm afraid that you get the govt you pay for.
Fund raise , strength in numbers... fund the govt. you want...
I understand patriotism to mean the love of the fatherland, the love of one's country and readiness to protect it. Right from time, man had tended to degrade his environment more than he nurtured and protected it.
Now the consciuoness and awareness of the people of America, nay the world has reached the point of realising the consequences of environmental degradation which is one reason we are in retrospect, reflecting on the damage caused Amearica and our planet at large. One of the greatest challenges arising out of this degradation is global warming.
The time for action has now come . There is no more siting on the fence, because as a patriot, to love the fatherland is to serve and protect the fatherland and, to serve and protect the fatherland is to love the fatherland.
This is a call on all patriots to rise to the challenge of stopping global warming. It is the smartest thing anybody could do because it is very honourable and rewarding to do so.
If indeed you are a patriot, make stopping global warming your business to save our planet!
Emmanuel Edet Bassey
We need a global patriotism. The dangers of global warming no longer threaten only one country, but al countries. We humans, as is all nature, are interdependent. If one of us falls, all of us fall. We are in this together. It time everyone on Earth becomes aware of this.
The people with the money and the power that enables them to trash our planet will not listen until we who have no money, nor power stand together.
all citizens should be willing to defend their country by constantly questioning their government. the oath of the president says in part ...to protect against threats both foreign AND DOMESTIC... I think we should keep that in mind as our corporations grow bigger and stronger and buy more government protection with laws serving their purposes rather than we, the people.
We need to pass "Global Laws" that force countries like China, former Russian countries, Middle East Countries, South American countries, African countries, and Indonesian countries to live by the clean air and clean water acts like the U.S. is forced to live by. This would vastly decrease most of the dangers we face by this global warming CRISIS. They are allowed to pollute at will and we are being forced to destroy our economy in order to try and reduce the damage they are inflicting upon our world. We need to stand firm and tell them it is time they take responsibility for their own destructive actions. China needs to eliminate 70% of its population so they do not overpopulate the world and thus saving valuable resources and food for everyone's children and grandchildren. Everyone around the world should take their vacations in the tropical rain forests of Central and South America and plant trees to help replenish the destruction that has taken place down there over the years. We should volunteer to walk the shores surrounding our country and others as well in search of lost turtles and crabs and help them back into the water. If each of us would collect used cigarette butts and recycle them..we could make such a difference.
Global warming is GLOBAL. Being a patriot means realizing how much your country contributes to global warming and do your part to stop it. Write letters, inform others AND do things like cut down on gas.
Ruby
Planet Patriot.
Home Planet Land Security.
We find these truths to be self evident. In order to have a more perfect habitat we commit to caring for the environment we are a member of.
Correcting Global Warming could be as easy as changing the light bulbs in your house, and lowering your electric bill, and isn't a sturdy cloth bag easier to carry than the plastic one which always tear when objects are too heavy for them. I believe being a responsible consumer will also help us live healthier lives.
Real patriotism involves doing and supporting those things that will sustain our nation and our world into the future --leav ing a legacy of a potential better life for those who will follow us--JMK
lgvz
The world is a collective unit made up of millions of individual parts. The matter of global warming must be taken from a personal perspective, not cast out from us placing our responsibility on the 'world' around us. As in, the World needs to, or, Man has done this, therefore Man needs to change that. We need to change. Speak "I need to do this" or "I have contributed to this, therefore I need to change." As we individually claim ownership of our responsibility and take upon ourselves to make the necessary changes in our lives, however small those changes may be, we are bringing this effort to the world table of humanity. Each small and individual change joins with another, and growing exponentially is becoming a powerful force; in essence it is a movement of the people.
Often we hear that business governs our economy and our world. This may be true, but it is the consumer who inadvertently governs the market. If in our simplest efforts we shop green, reduce our usage, shop locally, or give our support and business only to companies that demonstrate a proven effort to stop global warming; if we grow our own vegetables, or when applicable we make what we need instead of buying; whatever small and seemingly inadequate changes we make can in fact bring about a shift in the business industry, and in time the world market. Through action we can pull businesses and government into this mainstream of environmentally conscientious individuals, into this collective power of the individual consumer and humanitarian. Individuals that were once careless and worry free in a convenience motivated society, and have now grown into sober minded, environmentally aware individuals, who realize that for every action, environmentally, there is a reaction.
One of the most effective choices we have is to become educated. We need to learn all we can about the earth and our impact upon the environment. The amount of information, resources and helpful tips is abundant and readily available. Research, learn, and change. Visit your local Solid Waste Authority and learn about reducing and recycling. Above all, each day, we need to make one small change or one small commitment; we are in a delicate relationship with our earth, and it is our right of responsibility to live as beings who recognize, respect and live accordingly with this knowledge, and to live with consideration for the generations to follow. This is our inalienable right of responsibility as the people of this great nation.
And to reiterate once more, let the environmentally minded consumer dictate the laws of supply and demand. Do not wait for government. Do not wait for industry or the market to do what is right and what is their responsibility to do; let us each take up our own allotted responsibility and in so doing we can bring about government, industry and businesses to take their rightful places. We the people have the power to do this, and to place these entities within their rightful roles as responsible leaders, to carry out with care their responsibility to the planet and to the generations of children to whom we leave our planet.
Add a bullet about how you can be an advocate for your country. By being a smart consummer and making wise enviornmentally sound choices. You can do this by making the right decisions on using household items such as; washers,dryers,dishwashers, heat, air conditioners
and cars, and lighting.
It is our responsibility as citizens to save our planet from global warming,we need to become less materialistic.
One of the major fundamental goals of our founding fathers was to ensure the right to own property and land. If we do not change the way we treat our land, then eventually there will be no safe property left to own; all of our land will be polluted, toxic and destroyed by construction. As Americans, it is our responsibility to support and protect those ideas which we stand for. It is time that we protect our right to land and property, and this right cannot be protected if the land does not exist. Stop global warming.
Being a patriot means loving your country so much that you want to preserve it's natural resources and diversity for future generations of Americans. It means electing governments that will not plunder and squander for short term interests.
A patriot is anyone who puts the well being of his fellow human beings (all of them) before all else. A patriot believes that every life on this planet is sacred and must be nurtured and protected. A patriot believes that the environment we all live in must be respected, appreciated and protected from exploitation and profiteering. Take care of your fellow human beings and the planet you live on and everything else will fall into place.
Eileen
"...In wildness is the preservation of the world."
Henry David Thoreau
I believe to be a patriot one needs to standup for our people and our country for what is right and just. God has made us stewards of this plant, therefore, we need to be a responsible people and do what is has directed us to do.
Sid Perez
We need to refuse to be apathetic and encourage those around us to become inspired. We can make a difference by living our lives as responsibly as possible; walk when we can, recycle, switch to energy efficient products, etc. We tend to be so concerned with other people who aren't doing these things and we blame them for destroying the world. Stop complaining and start acting!
Many of the comments are not specific enough. Patriotism involves action, such as: 1) buying a combo gas/electric car next time, 2) getting up no later than sunrise and going to sleep at dark, (saving electricity--the heck with businesses which operate during the dark time,) 3) writing letters or e-mails to your Congressman about environmental matters, 4) re-cycling printed items, plastic, glass, etc., 5) planting trees & bushes on your property to eat up some of the CO2, 6)buying locally-grown produce instead of that from huge growers, 7) pestering your city council & mayor if the bus line does not come within several blocks of your home, and 8) remembering that America is a democratic republic and that your love for your country includes protecting the earth on which America is located!
By definition, a patriot loves his or her country. The new patriotism has to be one who loves the entire planet. It would be impossible to heal one country without including all others. Life is everywhere in every form and therefore precious and valuable. What is done in one area impacts another in a distant place. It IS a round world afterall and our careless indifference to the environment has made this planet on the verge of dying. There are so many seemingly small things each of us can do that, together, add up to quite a lot: writing and phoning the car manufacturers insisting they make all electric cars; not pouring toxic wastes into our soils and waters; not trashing the land and creeks with old tires, cars, garbage, and even littering. Not tossing anything lit in forested areas. All of that disrespect contributes to the overall health of this planet. Earth has taken care of every life form abundantly, but we have taken this abundance for granted as if it would never run out. We know better, now. The oceans can no longer be "fished" with drag nets or dynamite. The oceans can no longer be dumping sites for radioactive materials and other toxins. We are at the top of the food chain and whatever the fish ingest,so do we. Perhaps we really need to think of the earth as Mother and each of us the unborn child. What Mother Earth takes into her body goes into ours. We really need to get that concept. Native Americans innately understood this and treated the earth and all species with whom they shared it with the utmost respect and knew to preserve it all to the 7th generation. We have acted with greed and carelessness and it's finally caught up with us. We have made Our Mother ill. Perhaps at a local level, each town and city leader should require media time and space for educating their citizenry as to how each one can, and must, make a difference right where they live. Make it even smaller. Do it by neighborhoods. We should get to know one another anyway. Have weekly Town or Neighborhood Meetings and monthly progress reports. We know the problems in our own areas. Clean them up! Ignorance and arrogance can no longer be tolerated. Economic reasons for allowing polluters to continue to operate their businesses in the same old way is penny-wise and pound-foolish. The bottom line is always this: Earth is our home, not the structures we've placed upon it. Jobs and income won't be needed if we cause the death of the very place we live: Mother Earth. We can't afford to be lazy or think "let someone else do it." We ARE that someone else. Write, phone, pickup, educate, rally, and DO make the space each of us inhabits spotlessly clean and watch THAT ripple spread into healing for this one small planet. We have not the luxury of some distant time in the future like 2050. The time is NOW. We ignore it at our peril.
We who live here are "Americans", a word to designate a unique citizenship which by definition includes persons of all ethinicities, religions, origins, and persuasions, and with the singular, unified goal of living a wholly happy and harmonious life. Our diversity is both our strength and our definition. Our vision should therefore be broader and deeper than the average, and thus we should reasonably make every effort to "see and do" what is the right thing. The right thing, in this case, is to use our unity, size, and relative wealth to undo some of the damage to our environment, to the greatest of our ability. It may cost us in dollars, and thank goodness our society has some cushion. It will cost us in effort, and certainly in convenience... but there is no doubt that it is the right thing to do. In the end, it will save us far more than it costs us, in the large picture.
Remember that each of us contributes to global warming and take our individual steps to reduce our contribution. Even though it seems that one person cannot solve the problem, all of us working towards a solution, can.
For all of us that understand the impact of the "irresponsable compsumtion" of natural resourses(renuable and non-renuable) and the GREED that drives politicians and corporations is better to start educating the people closest to us, so they can educate others. There isn't a campaing strong enought or for that matter consistant to reach the bast mayority of voters and for what I've heard a lot of people cares but cannot afford "going green" (Light bulbs are too expensive,,,you only get a tax credit on "certain" hybrid vehicles-the most $$$ and so on...) First the influential people have to reach the corporations and the government and the rest of us have to influence the people we now and teach by example.
Educate others in a positive way about the ramifications of global warming. Highlight the future of their grandchildren if we do not rise to this crucial challenge. Organize locally and make information available to your community through home & garden events, Chamber of Commerce, etc. Practice what you preach.
I think a point should be made that while "green" products and services should be offered and we should definately go that route, and that these products usually cost more, the sellers should not overprice them BEACUASE they know environmentally conscience people like us will buy them. I think that tends to happen. People like us that CARE about making the world BETTER should not be taken advantage of; that could and does ultimately discourage other people that are thinking of making the change, and even those that already have, to not buy "green". I realize that people take advantage of and "rape" people in any way they can and that has to stop. It's completely opposite of the mentality that is driving us to be more green and responsible in the first place!
So sellers PLEASE price reasonably. Be part of the solution.
This is a great idea. We need a new, universal ethic of patriotism for the new millennium, as I have argued at the Natural Patriot blog.
Arise Patriots!
Green patriotism (as explained by David Steinman and others) honors and protects America through individual and collective responsibility; it means that our decisions as citizens are based upon what's good for our nation's health (physical, social, political), freedom/free-ness, and ecosystems. When we craft decisions that take all these factors into account, we find that we veer toward LESS dependence on oil (so we lessen reliance on/ political conflict with oil-rich nations), MORE careful consumerism (using our dollars to promote environmental justice and greater health), and GREATER innovation (a core value in the American spirit, herein directed toward wiser, more efficient use of our scarce resources). The bonus of green patriotism is that it also helps foreign nations, propagating a wave of conservation, rebalancing, and realigned values that can inspire, empower, and relieve other countries with similar problems.
"America the Beautiful" will come true when we tell narratives that include all of America's species and its land, air, and water as one big family. This is truly loving ALL of America.
Ideas that capture our attention begin in narrative form. We've been telling stories before we started writing them down--ever since we've been able to communicate.
Look at the earliest art. Humans rightly portrayed themselves as part of the natural world. We still are natural beings on this planet, so let's talk about it, write about it, create art about it--celebrate it.
We can still tell stories of our individual selves, and stories of our families, and stories of our communities of humans. That's all good.
So when we tell stories that include the land and all of its species--that's the whole story. That's America the Beautiful.
That's patriotism.
Climate change is not a democrat or republican issue. History shows again and again how abrupt climate change destroyed civilization with an eruption that made temps drop destroying food and crops. We today still grow most of our foods, and we today are just as vulnerable to temperature change. Katrina is proof we are not prepared for such events. Can you imagine the chaos if we lost massive crops, people will migrate to find food, tensions and stress on resources. Read history for the proof of how humans rely on regular temperatures and what happens when that changes.
Climate change is a humanitarian issue, the Inuit Indians have been suffdering for a decade for something they had no part in, permafrost is melting, leaving our pipeline in serious trouble, since may buildings are crumbling due to permafrost melting.
As Americans, it is time to stop believing the lies and hype spoon fed to us through media, we need reliable resources to know the truth. Climate is the most complicated, inter-dependent, inter-connected set of global systems, and it is the most complicated system known to mankind. I trust the majority of global scientists. America is still the only country debating if climate change is real, the rest of the world is debating solutions. Lets face it, FREE ENERGY SOURCES mean the end to many companies, so they are spending millions to mislead. If they own the information, they can bend it all they want!!!
It is time to seek solutions and not allow industry to divide and conquer by making it a political issue, it is a human issue, a global issue, a humanitarian issue, since the poorest countries will suffer the worst for something they did not contribute too. What kind of people ignore suffering of the world? What kind of people ignore what their eyes see and listen only to what their ears hear when it is obviously wrong? What kind of people refuse to care about future generations? If our fore fathers had that attitude there would be no America. Do you think they looked at a calander and said, "Why care about freedom and have a revolution, since I may not live to benefit from freedoms victory, I might die in the war, so why fight." If our founders acted like that we would not be free today. They care not just about themselves, but all of mankind, they cared about the future and they fought for those beliefs.
You can be a hero simply by seeking the truth and not helping to spread the myths that keep us in the dark, be a hero by recycling, be a hero to strangers by asking questions about the products you buy, and do not buy from companies that have bad morals and do things that hurt the environment, poor people or wildlife. Buying makes you responsible, ignorance is no excuse today. You must realize if you support these companies that destroy, abuse, exploit, cheat, kill, lie, then you are just as guilty as they are as if you did the injustice yourself.
Let us be better humans, not better political parties. Let us unite for life, unite for real truth, and unite to do what we know to be right. We can grow econimicaly while NOT raping, abusing , exploiting, and destroying our planet, people and wildlife. Greed and laziness is all that is in our way. Do not be a TV zombie, the days of the reporter who set out to get the truth to the public are long gone. Corporations learned years ago to control what people think they need to control what we see on TV. They can say whatever they want on TV true or not. Then after they run a lie hundreds of thousands of times, the law only requires a correction be run one time on only one of their networks or newspapers, so how many people check the corrections? Not many.
Anyone, regardless of their political affiliation, who tries to make a change in the country, not for power, personal glory, or greed, but out of genuine desire to make the country a better place
Being faithful to the Kingdom of God, no matter what part of the universe a being is in , or nation. There is fire stored up for the Seven headed Dragon and the Beast worshippers , Rev 11:18 the Destroyers will be destroyed.
As the most highly developed form of life on the planet, it is our duty to future generations to protect our environment and the habitat of all other living things.
Patriotism is not nationalism. Patriotism is based on love -- love of our land, love of each other, love of excellence and innovation. Nationalism is base on fear -- fear of the Other, fear that causes anger, fear that isolates us from the rest of the world. Patriots work together to create solutions that are bigger than any individual because they understand what our founding fathers did: "E pluribus unum."
Knowledge is our power and Education is the key to obtaining said Knowledge. Start early with our children in Elementary school.
The environment is our home, not some remote, abstract idea; we must defend it against its enemies by stopping the poisoning and destruction of the land, air, and water. Fighting for and protecting the environment is the mark of TRUE patriotism!
Patriots lead by example; are loyal to the greater good; are not greedy nor selfish; work to help others
I believe that we need to work locally in our own cities to pressure local government to help us set a good example and enable us to recycle and cut down on carbon emissions by providing curbside recycling and improving public transportation. I live in a middle size town in central IL. Recycling is not easy, you have to drive clear across town to drop things off. We need to press business regarding their packaging! Have they ever heard the phrase: KISS: keep it simple stupid! LOL
We need more public transportation!
I have faith in our 2008 politicians regarding combatting global warming nationally! The pressure needs to come locally, as well!
A patriot is a person who takes personal responsibility for the well-being of the planet -- a person who thinks globally, but acts locally to preserve resources; a person who promotes civic involvement and civility in society; a person who cares what happens not just in their lifetime, but in the future, and acts accordingly.
If we all do our part to educate others about environmental issues and the hazards of neglect, and lead by our actions, these small feats will create worldwide change.
Enforce protective laws and legislation by requiring swift consequences for large poluuting corporations that polute water and air.
A patriot's duty is to care for this earth and all its inhabitants. Recycle as much as possible, buy recycled goods, drive less, use less electricity, and don't eat meat. Animal agriculture produces more greenhouse gases than all of the means of transportation alone. It takes only 25 gallons of water to produce a pound of meat, but it takes 5,214 gallons of water to produce a pound of beef!
I think we should bring the news of global warming into our classrooms. Get kids excited about our enviroment about bieng outside and camping and really having a heart for nature. If we can instill a pride of our country in the hearts of kids then it will make them want to save it and make them want there kids to have a safe enviroment. Also put it in terms kids will understand. Make it fun and intresting for them.
I also think we should amke some tv shows. Something like what animal planet does w/ "backyard habitat" but they redo the house w/ solar panels more efficent bulbs and just make the entire house more energy effiecent then show how "us at home" can do things to change our home.
Patriotism is putting the good of the country before personal gain, dare I say greed?
I think it would be good to make the point the personal financial gain should not come at a cost to fellow citizens, depletion of natural resources and degradation or contamination of the environment.
Patriotism is sacrificing for your country. Taking care of the land and its people. Real Patriots will recognize that a national 55mph speed limit will save the lives of our young people in the service who are having to defend middle east oil interests, cut down on carbon emmissions and prevent the plundering of wild areas like ANWR and our coastal waters.
You decide, save the planet or same some time. What's more valuable to you?
Sign this petition, http://www.petitiononline.com/drive55/petition.html and tell your government to bring back the 55mph limit. It is a 20-50% reduction in consumption right now without no new technologies - no waiting - we need to act now - global warming is going to take a maximum effort by all of us. Patriotism isn't just saying you are, it is doing something that makes a difference for the better.
Ensuring survival of our mother earth. Animal agriculture ie: meat, dairy, and egg consumption, pollutes more than automobiles. Encouraging wo/mankind to go vegan. Then, global-patriotism can flourish.
Do not wait until your government does something, as it could be too late!!
Do something by yourself!!, as it could be your last chance.
We should think about how we live, we should provide for this land, taking care of it in all we do, this land has done so much for us that we need to do for this land now, so lets take care of this world!
Patriotism to a country is just another form of discrimination and egotism. Our loyalty needs to be to our planet and all the life it supports. We must strive to live in harmony with all other life within and upon it.
I wrote this before reading that others have already stated similar thoughts. I'm glad they have! And I join them in saying...
Firstly, a patriot must know his or her place. A patriot is one who takes pride in and protects the place that he or she lives from wrongdoing and unethical practices. Then a patriot must define what are his or her ethics and must find them acceptable for and applicable to all who live in that place. Finally, a patriot must recognize the real boundaries of that place and the behavior that takes place there; i.e., within nature and the global world of today, boundaries of countries, oceans, and continents easily blur and individual actions have far-reaching consequences. A true patriot is a patriot of the earth - a patriot of humankind and of all the life that sustains us, every one.
Patriotism (coming from a rural area) means helping your fellow citizens to be more efficient.
There are over 18,000 homes that don't have electricity just on the Navajo reservation alone. So people drive many miles, often in old, very inefficient vehicles (because that's what they can afford) to go to work. If the electric grid was completed to the whole reservation and then hooked up to the internet, it might be possible to talk about telecommuting and get people working in ways that wouldn't require them to drive at all.
Being a Patriot means supporting the people because we are the nation, and the world, not the governments.
AG
If not me, who will save the planet?
Go Green :
1. Recycle--just toss your bits into a Green bin instead of the Trash
2. Use reduced wattage (Green) bulbs--any hardware store will show you
3. watch gas mileage and when buying new car, make sure it's 'Green"
4.. Think! Is it green?
I think we should add educate others, and to be an active participant in fighting global warming. This includes being dedicated to "going green" in your home, and to help others decrease their impact. We should be active in the nation, writing letters, protesting, doing whatever it takes to save our country.
"For over 200 years we've been conquering Nature. Now we're beating it to death." -Tom McMillan
What does this quote mean to you?
To me, it means that we have been creating new inventions over hundreds of years; inventions that pollute and add to global warming. But now that we are noticing the changes, are we doing anything to stop it? Well, not many people are.
A true patriot, it is said here in the underground - "must defend his country against his government."
Non-violently of course Officer.
* Be Green; plant a tree, plant a garden- even if it's a planter with grass on your window ledge. It's not enough anymore to reduce your footprint, find ways to reverse. Don't just re-shingle your roof, add solar tiles or make it a green roof. When you get the kids the new "gameboys" or cell phone, include a solar recharger. Better yet, don't get the new system, just get the solar charger and keep the game as well as all the batteries out of the land fills or recycling bin. Compost, collect rainwater, re-use the water from your sub-pump- turn it into a sprinkler system... get creative. All it takes is the desire, we can do it one step at a time.
kddobson
The declaration should include acts of loyalty and dedication to our country: A patriot should instill in countrymen from young children to aged adults the benefits we can reap from not only maintaining, but promoting proactive green programs to make the country even better than it is today. Teaching recycling to children and continually promoting it to young adults and adults as a way of life not just a good idea is the only way to create a better environment for us, our children, and future generations.
It won't solve a lot, but one step in reducing greenhouse gases would be to reverse the absurd tax credit now offered purchasers of gas-guzzling SUVs (and why this was ever enacted is a total mystery!). Rather than rewarding such gross irresponsibility (as this tax credit does), it would be far better to add a humongous surtax (well over the slap-on-the-wrist surtax for ordinary gas-guzzlers)on such egregious emitters of CO2 as "Hummers" and Cadillac Escalades.
I think that you people are sick. I am going to educate everyone I know about your plan to destroy our lives and the way we live. Then they are going to educate everyone they know and it is going to be a HUGE train of nonbelievers that will stand up for what is right. We as Americans are "supposed" to be cutting down on greenhouse gases, right?-like Carbon Dioxide which is supposedly one of the major greenhouse gases, but CO2 only represents about .4% of greenhouse gases and if the problem really were as big as you claim it is, then no ammount of cutting down we do will stop it. And, why aren't any other countries, or lets say, CONTINENTS, cutting down on their Carbon emmisions? Like China- they put out WAY more Carbon Dioxide then we do and yet, they don't have to cut down? HMMMMM. I am sooooo not for this whole "global warming" nonsense. It is just not backed up by facts, rediculous, and if it is true, THEN PROVE IT WITH FACTS THAT ARE STRONG AND THAT ARE NOT JUST MADE UP OR SUGARCOATED!!!!
Patriotism doesn't mean you condone war and only care about freedom. It means caring for our world and for future generations, taking care of our planet and making sure our government makes right decisions on these issues. Our children and our children's children are going to think we were crazy for not preventing this better, so we need to do something NOW. Global Warming does not need to be "researched" because it's already been proven and it's evident in our current weather patterns. Let's all work together for once. WHY NOT do better for the environment!? :)
To me, patriotism is placing the greater good of the whole (in this case, Earth) over the whims of the individual. We need to make choices and commitments that will help to heal the Earth and Sky. Green is Red, White & Blue!
A patriot stands for what is right even when in a roomful of people who refuse to stand up and take responsibility againstthe things like torture and spying. We first must look at ourselves and improve our own wasteful ways and only then can we contribute to saving this planet for future generations.
It should be profitable for business and individuals to reduce global warming with products like ENERGY+ Fuel Additives (www.Polytrade.Net)
Polluters should be displayed on a black list to discourage them from polluting.
A Patriot is someone who believes in thier country, the power of the people to make a difference, and does everything in thier ability to make everyday count for the good of all. Change~ planting, sprouting, growing, learning, educating. Protecting our planet~ our mother, our children, our trees, our friends of the sky, land, water and earth, loving our circle of life. ~One love, One Planet, One People~.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step~Zen Proverb. We as patriots must all take our steps to defend our circle and bring back balance to our planet, our humanity with humility, love & acceptence, joining hands, uniting, making the difference.
Many Blessings~
Holly (*
America needs all the Patriots it can get this July fourth.
Patriots who demand that a government be just and kind.
Patriots who understand that it is America's role to promote stability through compassion and respect.
Patriots who see that there are no ends greater than the means, and just as our Forefathers took selfless risks in ensuring the America we have enjoyed, it is now our turn to take action and say no to the destruction of our planet.
If we don't take our chance now, but instead let those in power dictate what happens to our trees, to our water, to our crops, we will have squandered gods most beautiful and generous gifts.
Is there a greater sin than to rob unborn generations of a world that is biodiverse and self sustaining?
As true Patriots let us Declare our Independence from all sources of energy that harm not only our glorious USA but our entire planet. Let us work together as a nation to support and utilize energy producing technologies that do no further damage as we research new and better ways to harness the power of nature while harming none. As Patriots we shall strive to become thoughtful and proactive stewards of our great county working together for clean air; safe,clear and potable water and rejuvinated soil that grows nutrition rich food for generations to come.
"We take the existence of clean air and water, the continued growth of crops and availability of raw materials, for granted. We know that these resources are finite, but because we only thing of our own demands, we behave as if they are not. Our limited and self centered attitudes fulfill neither the needs of the time, nor the potential of which we are capable." -Dalai Lama
We are currently living in an Industrial Growth Society. This means that our economy depends on ever-increasing consumption of resources. The Great Turning is the epochal shift from a self-destructive industrail growth society to a life-sustaining society. Some people may thing that this will never happen and that we should just give up hope...I have heard many time before, "I'm only one person, I can't make a difference, so why should I even try?" Well, the people who say this are right. One person cannot change the world. But that one person can inform another about the state of our earth and ways to protect her; and that person they infromed can teach another...and then they teach another, until the teaching moves all around the globe. It is possible to meet our needs without deystroying the environment and ourselves.
"The Great Turning is gaining momentum today, through the choices of countless individuals and groups. We can see that it is happening simutaneously in three areas or dimensions that are mutually reinforcing. These are: 1) actions to slow the damage to Earth and its beings; 2) analysis of structural causes and creation of structural alternatives; and 3) a fundamental shift in worldview and values." -Joanna Macy
How do we get our act together to save Life and Earth?
-Gratitute: being grateful helps you to live in the present, helps you realize what you have and what is around you and not take it forgranted. Pause and be grateful that you are given a human life. That you are not a fly or a rock, becuase humans have something that other life forms don't. We have the capacity to change the karma-we have choice.
-Be present: be present with in yourself and with othes. Don't hide or aviod the things around you, your issues, or the fact that our world is crying. Don't "dumb" yourself down to be accepted by others. The greatest danger is the deadening of our hearts and minds.
-Honor our pain for the world: Restore significent experience, put more ritual into your life. Allow yourself to feel sorrow for our world and what is happening to the Earth and its beings. "Our culture conditions us to view pain as dysfunctional. There are pills for headache, backache, neuralgia, and premenstural tension-but no pills, capsules or tablets for this pain of our world."-Joanna Macy. Be present in every feeling that arises when you pass a factory dumping tons of pollution into our air, feel the anger and sadness that may arise when you thing of sweat shops, poverty, war, over population, and so much more. Honor your feelings and speak them. "Our experience of pain for the world springs from our interconnectedness with all beings, from which also arise our powers to act on their behalf"-Joanna Macy
-Seeing with new eyes: Doing all of the above will open your heart and mind to a greater awareness. Help you realize the drastic state that our world and its beings are in and help make the Great Turning move forth. Take the things you learn and apply it to your life.
-Intention: Whats your intention? Many of us don't realize the power of intention and motivation. What one intends to call into reality. With everything we do, there is intention behind it. We need to pay more attention to the intention/motivation and be aware of its power.
-DON'T EVER GIVE UP CARING! The most provasive sin is giving up caring.
-Fall in love with life again-Take the time to look outside and appreciate what you have, the people in your life, and your suroundings. Look at things as if you have never seen them before.. allow yourself to see the beauty in everthing; even a dog walking down the street.
We humans are so accustom to being critical of ourselves, whether it be the way we look, smell, talk, act, anything. It's called "negative self-talk," yes we all have it. That's why it's so important to compliment yourself, and appreciate your beauty. Gaurd against self hatred; try to stay away from negative self-talk and stop yourself from doing it when you notice yourself thinking that way. It blocks the beauty of motivation/intention.
The industrial growth society is taking life from us. "Why does society persist in destroying its habitat?" People are learning disatisfaction; craving consumption: looking right, smelling right, ect. A lot of times people don't care what they do or are only concerned about poeple and property that directly affect them. We need to open our eyes to the whole picture, all of humanity, all of the world, not just the people that we know or are around us. The world is suffering, we need to open our ears, our hearts, our minds and listen to the world. The Earth is crying, let us speak her pain, let us be with her in this time of need and all times, let us come together and save the world and ourselves. Break down your defenses and share the pain and feelings you experience-be in compassion. We have come to think that power is to put up a defense, a wall. It is viewed as something you can have, something you can take; we try to have power over others, use force to get what we want. In actuality this "power" is weakening us. It's taking us away from ourselves, taking us farther and farther away from self-realization and reaching your true potential. Being vulnerable is true power. Power is the openess to change and the willingness to be in relationship with others. We stay who we are by changing. We are like water and flames, always changing, yet always the same. You never step in the same river twice because the water is constantly moving, constantly changing, yet it never changes form. It stays the same. We shine by perishing.
So break down your defenses, feel the pain of the world, become part of the Great Turning and do what you can to help our Earth and its beings; recycle, pick up trash, boycott, inform people,use less hot water, use moe energy effiecent appliances and cars, VOTE, write to congress, the governor or the president, be aware of stores that use sweat shops, feed the homeless, do what ever you can to help. One person can't make a difference, but many can.
As a citizen of the world and a human being, who hopes, with the help of others, to leave a world worth living in to future generations, I make choices to buy locally-produced products whenever possible, thereby reducing the amount of fossil fuels used in the transportation of goods. I suggest that local food should be promoted, and that international trade should be limited when it is not necessary. Also, alternative fuels and sources of energy should be promoted and explored, excluding nuclear power. We need to be responsible and clean up the mess we have made of this planet, restore habitats, voluntarily decrease our travel, and conserve resources. Environmental issues are economic issues. They affect the future of every country and all present and future people as well as innocent animals and vegetation.
BECOMING AWARE OF OUR OWN PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH CONSUMING AND OUR PLANET
To be patriotic is to have regard for Where We Live city/watershed, country/bioregion, and planet) so that many, many future generations can live in peace and dignity. Not just for the sake of us humans, but for the whole diversity of living things. If that means we must cut back our consumption and population in our regard for future life, so be it!
Therefore patriots use their skills, energies and inventiveness to help life in total be sustained and fulfilled.
Stop Being Selfish, Start Think about our children that will be in this Country/World after we are long gone. Stop Global Warming NOW!
One singularly embarassing trait to overcome for Americans is our belief that we who are 5% of the worlds population have a right to 25% of the worlds resources. A true patriot would make an effort to "use" less.
If the government wants money, then they should make ONLY electronic cars. That way more people will buy them beacuse they want to save the earth, which means more money.
I would like to agree with everyone who has commented about being tactful in our struggle. As a liberal, one of my newer goals is that I really try to uphold the all-inclusive air that many liberals parade around with, but don't necessarily follow through on. We must remind everyone, during our distributions of literature, lectures and other peaceful methods, that this is not a liberal or conservative agenda - this is a HUMAN AGENDA. And, actually, it goes beyond that. It affects everything. Setting a good example by starting it off with a smile is a great idea. A most patriotic idea.
The government should not allow the heads "Big Businesses" to hire people (Lobyists) who do nothing but basically bribe many lawmakers to "See it their way." This type of business hurts every man, woman, child and living creature on the planet. This should NOT be allowed to take place.
We need courage to defeat the attitude that environmental practice is useless; that it is too expensive. We need to keep the promise and the right set forth in 1776 that our government is for the people, BY the people.... and participate in it on every level. And, again, the most courage is needed to defend our principles, despite opposition, ridicule and those that would leave our world worse than they found it. Speak up, even though it takes much courage and be a leader for the rewards are great.
The problem is much bigger than just solving global warming or being a patriot. We need a fresh and holistic approach to saving the planet from the folly of the human race. We need go beyond the concept of global warming to reach those who are totally oblivious to the impact of human activity on the environment and the enormous consequences of six billion people swarming the planet like parasites.
The only solution is in education which will reveal the truth about what we are doing to the planet and show real solutions that will help reduce the environmental impact. To reach the largest audience, environmental causes need to go mainstream to avoid the “tree hugger” label so it is more widely accepted. The way to do this is to not preach the environment that causes people to “glaze over” and that only reaches those with ecological leanings, but instead demonstrate the economical and social benefits of changing our behavior.
If we want to stop global warming, pollution, strip mining, habitat destruction, species extinction, and so on, we need to show that using renewable resources can save everyone money - not just at the pump and electric meter, but by avoiding wars in an attempt to secure oil reserves, and by avoiding the enormous health costs from fossil fuel pollution.
There are renewable energy solutions available today that only need investment funding to become viable technologies. The potential for an economic boom from green technologies, such as wind, solar, geothermal, biofuels, and plug-in hybrid cars, is huge. As reported by Renewable Energy Access, according to a recent MIT study, more than 100,000 MW of economically viable geothermal capacity can be developed in the continental United States by 2050. That's enough electricity to power a country the size of Canada. Yet, the current administration has withdrawn all funding for Department of Energy's Geothermal Technologies program for the last two years.
The stranglehold the fossil fuel industry has over all of us is absolute. We are literally forced to burn oil to get to our jobs and burn coal to power our homes and buildings. We don’t have any real choices – yet. The will of the people to make the necessary changes to the political landscape needs to change in order to transform the fossil fuel economy to a green economy that is sustainable. We need leaders who will standup to the fossil fuel industry and shift R&D subsidies to renewable technologies and by implementing legislation that builds real incentives to grow a green economy that substantially reduces carbon emissions.
This change must happen so that everyone, whether they are a environmentalist or just a working stiff trying to get by, will benefit. Entire species and the lives of future generations are quite literally at stake.
A change for a green and clean planet is a change for the better, for all of us as citizens of the world and as a country. Doing something that helps the country is certainly patriotic, but doing something that helps the planet is really not patriotic in the nationalistic “fatherland” sense - it’s more of a “mother earth” concept. Perhaps we need a new term to describe those who care about these issues and shows support for their planet and all its inhabitants, just like being patriotic shows support for their country and all its citizens.
Being patriotic means being educated on matters that are a grave concern to us as a nation and a global community. We are the stewards of this planet and need to protect her. We need to take a stance as one big community to voice our opinions to this government and the governments of the world. To make changes that are going to benefit all of us. It is time for us to make the changes that our fore fathers gave us the power to do, "For the people, by the people". Taking care of what takes care of us. That is what patriotic is.
MARILU writes:
Being a patriot also means taking the time to make the U.S. Military accountable for the waste and corruption it fosters, aids and abetts not only in the United States, but in its 737 bases across the globe. Military employees are NOT taught respect for the earth and its creatures, quite the contrary, they are trained to blast off,to waste our hard-earned money and all our precious resources. Military ethos projects arrogance,ignorance, self-righteousness and bragadocio. These obnoxious traits are the opposite of what true patriots need since kindness,consideration, wisdom and INSIGHT are what we need to nurture the future of our shared planet. Let us study how billions of our tax dollars are mis-spent by Haliburton and Brown&Root and their thug-cohorts and let us expose to the world community how these establishments that gorge themselves by promoting wars, have perverted the ideals of freedom and democracy our Country was founded on. We are NOT being defended, we are being duped by devious cynical and grotesque business deals. Let us reveal how in the name of freedom the US military promotes the abject destruction of environments.
We, American patriots, must defend the ideals of Thomas Payne and Emerson,Thoreau and Mark Twain: be inspired by their courage and struggle and vision:
GREENS OF THE PLANET UNITE !!!
An interesting point from Charles warner, we should all be wary of the word patriot, as some governments use the abuse of power to take away liberties.
I'm English and know that I dont even trust my own government these days.
I believe that we should pull out of Iraq and Iran and let those people rebuild their country without interference.
I beleive loving your country is great, but more importantly I think we should all think of ourselves as a person of the world not of a country.. sometimes just limiting yourself to caring for your own country is an easy way to neglect other countries and hand in hand our world..as the consequences of our actions are always shared around the world... only helping our own country can selfishly have bad consequences for other countries.... but on the flip side helping other countries can in turn effect our county in a good way...... were all in the same bubble...it is no longer them and us... I beleive there should be a new word like patriotism but that refers to loving the world instead of just your own country....... imagine just loving your own country as if this is a football game.... with winners and losers...... we all have to win.... And global warming is the most important hurdle of our generation.
Be conscientious investors in green electric generation alternatives, both in the stock market and when we pay our monthly electric bills.
If we are called to "protect" out land, then surely we are called to protect it from our own destruction. Being ecofriendly in the United States and worldwide is the best way to be patriotic.
CONSERVATION...
IT'S ALL ABOUT CONSERVATION !!!!!
TURN OFF YOU LIGHTS, TV, FANS, ETC. ETC.
WHEN NOT IN USE!
SAVE YOUSELF MONEY ON YOU ELECTRIC BILL...
I think the Declaration should include a call to architects, designers, builders, and building owners to build green. The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to climate change. Many great principles are laid out in the USGBC's LEED program. These need to become standard practice. Construction could be an entire industry of patriots.
If you have the money, purchase a Hybrid car. If you don't have the money to do that, try adjusting your home. Switch out your standard light bulbs for ones that save much more energy. Turn off your air conditioning or heating when you are not home to save on energy and your energy bill. Turn off running water while you brush your teeth, wash your car, wash your face, shave your legs/face, etc. If your car is compatible with alternatives to oil, purchase gas at your local BP. For all other automobiles which still run on standard oil, purchase your gas anywhere BUT EXXON and MOBIL. The plan is, if less people purchase their oil with the two major oil companies, their prices will have to drop, thereby forcing other gas companies to follow suit. Plant a tree, they produce oxygen! Rethink, Reuse, Recycle. Do anything you can to help stop global warming. It doesn't have to be anything big.
The problem cannot be solved by individuals alone. It will take governments to provide the organization, political mechanisms, direction, and financial wherewithal to make the needed actions happen. Then individuals will be involved, through supporting politicians and pushing them into good leadership and through taking individual actions both independently and through participation in government inspired programs.
I am concerned about the life and health of our plant. The bees are having issues and folks aren't mindful of the footprints that their living on this earth for our children and grandchild. I really like the persons comments that were "do what's right not whats covenant" Great!
We can also stop the GOP's no-stop mandate of crime. Also prosecute Democrats who are under the disallusion that it is more politically viable to endorse GOP crimes (making Dems guilty as accomplices)then taking a stand to get our Constitutional democracy back as well as doing the logical and responsible things like a REAL Carter-style energy policy, National health care, legal protection for American workers, et al.
Dissent is the highest form of Patroitism - (many authors credited)
In part, being a Patrioit means paying attention to what our elected officials are doing, who is giving money to their election campaigns, and how they are voting when these financial contributers have legislation affecting them up for votes.
Watch them, send them emails to let them know you are watching them, make phones calls. Make sure that they know that Ww the People are aware.
In todays world people move around a lot from state to state, country to country. Its hard to say you are a patriot to the land you live in if your not from there. What you need to do is claim a patriot to humanity and your home country you claim. The thang is to have a good moral additude even if you have a different religion. Most religions teach to do the right thing,so doing what is right for the environment of the world shows how much of a patriot you are.
YES, education!!!!!!!! It has to small points, repeated~like those silly commercials! It MUST become part of who we are!: Being caring about our WORLD IS patriatism!..& globalism! WE ARE a wold community, THUS we need to care for eachother!
The time for change is now. It is OUR future, OUR fate, we must face this TOGETHER.
thomas friedman says it best....
green is the next red, white and blue !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Recycle everything, even old cell phones.
www.wirelessreycling.com
Care of the planet is an important issue. It is non-partisan, independent of religion, and critical to life on every corner of the globe. It is important to those who believe in a god, and those who do not. It is important to peoples of all nationalities, all colors, all political affiliations, all life.
Being a patriot means loving your country. How better to show this love than to care for our country, her fields & skies, forests & mountains, deserts & plains, rivers, lakes, & ocean waters? If we do not support our motherland, she cannot support us.
Lets live on this Earth, the only home we have, as if we ment to stay.
As citizens of this country and the planet, we need to be role models, and change our daily habits: turn the lights off, drive less, protect our natural resources and recycle more.
I'm signing on for the United States of the World.
The only comment I would make is that instead of "global warming" it should be "climate change". I know its semantics, and I realize that "global warming" is already more recognizable, but this movement needs to be done right in order to be truely effective. We all know that this problem is more than just the planet warming up... the consequences of this include possible ice ages, changing sea pH levels, desertification, and more... not just warmer weather. Therefore the movement should focus on climate change, instead of, not entirely correct, global warming.
I agree with the sentiment that: "Patriotism is not a national, but a global ideal. We must think and feel as citizens of the planet, not just one nation;" but, if you are redefining a word, you should keep "New" in front of "Patriotism," because according to Webster:
Main Entry: pa·tri·ot·ism
love for or devotion to one's country
Today's patriot cherishes the independence of our nation from any other's rule and treasures the interdependence of all peoples and on all of nature from the tiniest mite to the most majestic of mountains.
I made all the comments I wanted to on the first draft. Now I get something from you that says,
"Patriotism is not a national, but a global ideal. We must think and feel as citizens of the planet, not just one nation"
This sounds to me like you're pushing the same plan as the governments and big corporations, the idea of gobalization. I think that all citizens should be patriot's of the country in which they live, be friendly with and work with the citizens of other countries to help them better their lives while keeping their own customs, law's and borders. If you are suggesting anything resembling one world government with no borders you can count me out. I think the founders of our country had a grand idea when they wrote our constitution,established our borders, wrote our original laws and I think we'll all be better off if we ever start using all those things again.
Sincerely, Cal Wellander...
Saugus, Ca.
Thomas Jefferson once said, "The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government." Sadly, I fear that our government, for moment, has lost sight of this. I believe that the well being of human life and happiness hangs in the balance. It is up to America to stand with the rest of the world and take responsibility for our beautiful earth. It has sustained mankind for eons, we must stop our destructive behavior and begin to nurture. I am twenty two years old and I'm afraid that a large majority of my generation is woefully detached from the issues at hand. It is time that we awaken with pride and zeal to fight for the trees, the ocean, the earth beneath our feet, and the air that we breath. All living creatures depend upon it. We, the people, have the power if we will only rise up once again and learn to wield it. Thomas Jefferson also said that, "Every generation needs a new revolution." Let this be ours.
Global warming is a result of a natural earth and sun cycle. Mars is also warming as is certain moons of jupiter and other planets. Sun activity has changed. Also, CO2 is good for plant life. The global warming scam is to create a world tax which will bring consolidation and power to the New World Order.
Each person on Earth needs to know that there are simple steps he,or, she can take to lessen their carbon footprint. Teaching people about birth control and educating all of the worlds children will help in controling global warming.
We are all of us Human Beings first and foremost. Without a properly cared for and nutured environment we cannot survive.
In order to be a true patriot we are responsible to each other and to our nation to do as much as we can to ensure that future generations have at least as much and if possible more opportunity to enjoy a clean and nuturing environment.
Our true goal must be to leave our nation and world a better place than we came into.
This makes me realize that no matter how purposefully ignorant relatives and friends choose to be, not only about global warming but also their own responsibility to not blindly follow ANY politician, we should never stop trying to reach them with the truth. The title "commander in chief" convers no godlike qualities to any human - it SHOULD signify one who will be required to be completely mindful of the will of the people! And if that person betrays us then they should be subject to complete accountability and pertinent punishments!
I'm confused. Maybe you don't want to do what you originally said. Maybe you want to redefine the word patriotism. If that's the case you should have said so and I wouldn't have wasted my time. People always want to redefine something to suit themselves. Consider the word respect. I have no objection to you getting together to do this; it's meaningless. The problem with human beings is it's nearly impossible for them to set aside their agendas and wants. What's going on here is no different than calling a plan to abolish the constitution,"the patriot act". Patriotism always has to do with the associated land or country or the like. It's in its essence non global. I think you should change the title of your cause. Start over and stay on topic. One of the hardest things for people to do now days is admit to being wrong. It is the causal factor in the sustained state of our union. You folks are all about changes and that's admirable, but asking the current government to listen and effectively govern is like asking a pig to fly. I'll bet most of you are associated with a political party. It's hard to say I made a mistake and put my faith in something that doesn't work. It is however the first vital step to change. If we are to be patriots then we must put the country first. What's best for the country? That it reflects our ethics, dreams,ideas and so on? I think so. I don't know what else to say, it's just that simple. The most important issue in the world today is the United States government. The patriotic thing to do is clean up the election system; it's broke and nothing will change until it's fixed.
Patriotism...a great love for one's country. Let us Americans strive to create a great country to love! And collectively as world citizens let us strive to create a great planet to love! Without a healthy planet, what nation can survive to feel patriotic about?
"Be active citizens by EXPECTING elected officials to take urgent action now, and by EXPECTING all candidates for office to commit to passing strong legislation to cut America's global warming pollution"
I myself would rather see the word "expect" instead of "press" because not everybody outside of this website is a political activist. They can, however, be backers to the activists that "press" elected officials. There are already activists that "press", but I believe you are looking for more backers to back them. You might get more by just changing this word...maybe? Anyway, think about it.
From the Universal Declaration of Human Values:
http://www.srisriravishankar.info/universalhumanvalues.html
"2.2.7 An eco-friendly attitude and caring for the planet
An eco-friendly attitude arises spontaneously with the understanding that the earth is our own mother, and the mother of all life on the planet. The Millennium Declaration identified respect for nature as one of the fundamental societal values essential to international relations. The corresponding human value goes beyond mere respect to reverence and a profound caring for the planet, in the same way that we revere and love our own mother."
The root of patriot comes from Latin 'patriota' meaning "fellow countryman" and in Greek 'patrios' meaning "of one's father" and 'pater' meaning "father".
As the qualities of a loving father (or mother) would guide his(or her) children to the best of his (or her) abilities to be responsible, good-natured, friendly, and well-adjusted to the community. If necessary a parent will sacrifice what they want for their children's well-being. Our Mother Planet Earth has given us everything we need, and as children becoming stewards and 'fathers'/parents, of our Mother Earth and our growing children, we are called to give as we have received.
The environmental crisis is a spiritual crisis of the magnitude that we need to recall our relationship with all living beings, to be as a loving parent would act wanting the best life left for their children and their children, our grandchildren.
Imagine the joy of seeing a bird in flight, a polar bear, any animal, and all the stories, movies, and books and knowledge that have come from our relationship to our fellow beings. Nature and life are mirrors for dimensions in the human that are inaccessible otherwise. Our very humanity is at stake. With this love in mind, wise decisions can be made with right action.
Patriotism when taken to extreme engenders a feeling of superiority for having the good luck to be born in a country which is rich in resources. True patriotism encompasses the entire world, shows empathy for those in need and humility. We need to demand that our leaders have these traits and present themselves to the world as role models.
We, the people of Planet Earth aka Mother Earth owe it the unborn and to ourselves to do what is needed now and until we expire to change the world that we live in for the better through green design and thinking; sustainability; (local) organic and biodynamic farming; increased usage of and supporting of plant-based materials (including automobiles, cleaners, chemicals, foods, etc.); and cleaning of our water supplies, land, and air.
Connections. Connections between what we use and buy to it's source. Connections between people with the same ideas. Connections to our enviironment, community, and politics.
Can we vote out the bush neo-Nazis Republicans forever?
Can we put the bush arrogant 1%ters and their corporate influence into the ash-bin of history forever?
Can we 99%ters hang together, because we have seen that we get hung apart?
Can we get the typical American, the "fat, lazy, dumb" 99%ters, off their couches to vote in their own interests? (Not, fabricated interests written by the far-right wing and 1%ters, and swallowed by "fat, lazy, dumb" 99%ters.) Yes, the key here is common sense, intelligence to know thy common enemy at a point in time (and the enemy may change over time), the will to strive for self-education, courage to get off the couch because we love someone else more than we love ourselves, and want to leave something better behind than how we found it.
Now, how many mis-truths will you swallow today? Like - "We need more time to study acid-rain" to find out if there is a problem; the actions of mankind has no/little effect on the state of world climate; that we should forget finding terrorists but bully ourselves into false wars; that we should take our few working ideals left, like "organic food" and our health and subvert its very definition; that the word "sustainable" (whether it used in conjunction with agriculture, industry, trash, education, or politics) and allow the bushes of this nation to turn it into a dirty word; etc. etc.
Is there hope? Or do these un-Americans win? May God help us against these pond-scums, because we have a hard time understanding and helping ourselves.
Today on my way to school I saw a sign on the back of a mans truck that said Global woarming was self-righeous junk science. Some people really don't believe that global warming is a really environmental condition. We need to educate more people if we are going to help slow it down.
Patriotism is love of country and devotion to its best interests. In terms of global warming, it is a simple matter. As it was said in the old Fram oil filter ad: pay me now or pay me later. See a lengthier comment by me at www.thepoliticaljunkies.net, click on my name, Steven Jonas, and then on "Global Weirding."
We MUST have population control NOW,or everything else will soon be meaningless.
I live in the desert, two things solar power and wind farms.
Free energy which would replace burning coal and that sort of thing.
Electric cars or ones that burn bio-diesel.
And lastly hemp products would save the trees.
Energy companies profit from natural resources that should belong to us all, and they take no responsibility for the environmental damage that their business produces. There should be an excess profits tax on energy companies, and the proceeds should be used for the development of renewable and sustainable forms of energy.
The fact the United States has become all but totally dependant on foreign oil, (which by the way is the largest contributor of terrorist activities world wide, not illegal drug sales). If we honestly tried to utilize alternate sources of energy, we could;
Cut down on dangerous emissions to the ozone layer that causes greenhouse gasses which in turn are destroying the earth’s atmosphere.
Reduce our dependency on foreign oil which could help stabilize our own economy.
Reducing our dependence on foreign oil would also reduce funding to terrorists world wide.
Open your own eyes to the problems of Global Warming people. Make your elected officials open their eyes too.
SACRIFICE OR BE SACRIFICED!
16,790,000,000,000,000 BTU's OF KINETIC ENERGY ARE UNLEASHED EVERY YEAR FROM THE COMBUSTION OF 146,000,000,000 GALLONS OF GASOLINE IN THE UNITED STATES.
SINCE THE INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE IS, AT BEST, 30% EFFICIENT, THE REMAINING 11,753,000,000,000,000 BTU's ARE LIBERATED AS HEAT ENERGY.
THE ENERGY LEVEL UPON THE SURFACE OF THE EARTH "IS" INCREASING. IT IS THE PLACE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY TO REGULATE THOSE LEVELS THROUGH LAWS AND IT SHOULD NOT BE LEFT TO "MARKET FORCES" AS I BELIEVE IS NOW THE LAZY APPROACH. AT THIS RATE, THE ECONOMY WILL NOT EVEN MATTER ONE DAY.
I DO WANT MY TAX DOLLARS SPENT ON IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE AUTOMOBILE ENGINE INSTEAD OF SUSTAINING THIS RATE OF CONSUMPTION THROUGH COSTLY WARS.
AMERICA DOES NOT NEED MORE CRUDE OIL, IT NEEDS TO IMPROVE THE UTILIZATION OF ENERGY. CRUDE OIL CONTAINS MANY COMPLEX HYDROCARBON MOLECULES, YET A SIMPLE ALCOHOL CONTAINS NEARLY THE SAME ENERGY. WHY THEN IS OUR CARBON RICH CRUDE OIL MISUTILIZED IN SUCH AN EXTRAVAGANT MANNER?
BY THE WAY, HAVE YOU EVER NOTICED THOSE FLOOD LIGHTS THAT BURN ALL NIGHT LONG AT THE DEALERSHIPS OF THE 30% EFFICIENT AUTOMOBILES?
We can do many things to stop global warming save the wild protectthe wildlife.We could start this at home by using energy effecint items such as flouresent light bulbs refrigeratures washers dryers stoves how to wisely use electricity getting electricity from renewable sources recycle paper tin cans plastics plastic bags know how to propily recycle hazardous wastes etc.We can pressure our local regional state FEDERAL national to put into place very strict laws that greatly reduce global warming and to keep it that way.We can tell others to do the same thing.
One nation Under GOD! We should be a Christian example for our brothers and sisters of this nation by honoring God's creation. God created and gave us this most perfect and beautiful planet earth, we should worship him by being excellent stewards of this gift, earth. If every Christian in the US (or world for that matter) treated earth as God would like, what a glorious place it would be.
Patriotism is more than waving the flag and blubbering. It is standing up for what is right, and taking a look at what we are doing and how it is affecting our nation's future. What can we do to change our actions? Be mindful of consumption.
Education is key in the fight for global warming let us teach ourselves to respect this world and it's inhabitants to care for our planet and to ensure the well being of future generations to come. Let us be patriots to our planet which provides so much for us and let us show our love and respect and not give up in this fight against global warming.
Education is key in this fight for global warming let us teach ourselves and the ones around us to love and respect this planet and it's inhabitants. Let us show patriotism to our world and ensure the well being of our generation and the future generations to come. Love and respect this world because although there are people of different shapes and sizes we are all from the same planet and breathe the same air.
We create so much garbage, I think we should find a way to use this garbage to create energy. We should clean up the landfills by using that garbage for energy. If we can find a way to do that, it would have a huge chain reaction to the environment. Not to mention eliminating the need for landfills.
I think it's very important to be a good consumer and try to use less hot water and so on. But an other thing that many people doesn't think about, are weapons. They are not only dangereous to us, they are dangereous to the environment to. That's a bit hard for one person to change, but together we can make a difference, we can lower the use of weapons.
Once we can make the necessary changes, both affordable and still profitable, we will find a wave of progression towards cooperation between both parties. The mind set needs to be taught - in the beginning, at home, at school, in religions. If the future generations have no need for hope, or change, or strong beliefs, we will ultimately destroy ourselves through denial and ignorance.
We should support wildlife rescue groups like the WWF so that we can save nearly-extinct species.
I think that there should be a bullet about how by 2035 all car companys must only be selling cars that run on environmentally friendly fuels.That or some sort of earh friendly product.
I think that there should ne a bullet about how car companys HAVE to be making fuel efficient cars or cars that run on earth friendly cars by 2035.
I think a patriot is a person who communicates her or his concern for our country and its population, all of its population. We are not a very user friendly country...our manufacturers are more concerned for their profits than what is the right thing to do for the planet and the population of its country. It apalls me to know that their are US manufacturers that make a different product for the European market because it does not allow certain chemicals, or toxic products in what is being made, but they will make it for their own country because there are no laws against it!! I think it is patriotic to reduce the amount we consume in this country. We don't need half the stuff that the manufacturers make; I often look at what is in the stores and I think 'that is just one step away from the landfill." And we need to reuse more. We are a spoiled population and we need to face that fact and tread more softly on the planet, more wisely, more eco friendly. Like I said to begin with, we need to communicate these things to each other, our children, immigrants that come to this country for a better life.
Get involved. Educate our children, get them involved, early.
Sign every petition that comes across your e-mail. Vote for those who stand for the environment. Lead the world in doing what is right, not what is easy, and profitable.
Wit, compassion, depth, intelligence, fearlessness, long view, laughter, relationships, total committment to communication ... the desire to be informed, to make decisions based on what's best for the community, the larger world & the ecological systems we depend on ... redefinition of "self" as member of a great, grand, interrelated ecosystem that thrives when in balance, but is delicate enough to need care ... understanding of a new world paradigm: that we are not merely Americans, that we Americans are human beings, sharing our lives with all other living creatures on earth, and that we all -- regardless of shape, size, wealth or impact are interdependent, are part of a cyclical / dynamic system; that we need each other to survive, and that we have the ability to overdraw and destroy ourselves ... that true integrity will demand social progress into a harmonic/economic/ecologically sustainable future, that the legacy of "caring" is fundamental to the populist ethic of democracy, and that at this stage in global history we can only gain by enhancing the sustainability of all those around us.
let's start a new political party. . .
"the Sustainability party."
let's start a new social vision. . .
"Social Design" -- wherein discussions & musings are grounded in solving social/environmental ills with today's technologies, and yesterday's wisdoms.
It can work.
Let us be realistic, and warm -- and move forward.
In the 1982 presidential election, one of the candidates, Reverend Jesse Jackson, said that America had too many interests and not enough friends. Surely it is time for the United States to make some friends and demonstrate genuine leadership by addressing the greatest crisis facing the world at the present time, not the war on terrorism, but rather the struggle to save our environment from the effects of global warming for the sake of all the world's future children.
respectfully, David Walsh
It is our duty and responsibility as citizens of the Unites States of America:
* to become stewards of our world's resources by making environmentally sound decisions everyday (i.e. using public transportation and planning errands, changing to energy efficient products, recycling at home and businesses, etc.)
* to teach our children to respect the land, oceans and air
* to vote for political candidates that are supported by environmentally and socially responsible industries
* to support private businesses that are investing in the development of "green" products.
These are just some of the issues that should be an integral part of our discussion as patriotic citizens committed to restoring and protecting our land from the effects of global warming.
LOOK AROUND: SEE ALL THAT WE HAVE WASTED, EMPERILED, DESTROYED..
STOP DOING THAT NOW.
RESPECT OUR COUNTRY AND THE LAND OF IT AND ALL OF ITS DENIZENS.
EDUCATE NOW FOR THE FUTURE.
BE OF ONE VOICE IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE THOSE WHO DO NOT WANT TO HEAR, LISTEN...
WORK HARD.
HOPE......
The crisis of our time is "being deceived" by the global elite who want to create a huge carbon tax based on the false science of Al Gore. Even reputable scholars have been fooled by this propaganda. Seek the truth. Find out for yourself. Is global warming really the crisis of our times? Have you listened to other views? True, polluting is not good, but as far as warming is concerned, there are alternate conclusions. The elite are trying to rally you to accept a world fascist government. Patriotism is seeking the truth. You owe yourself and children that.
The most important thing is educating others, especially younger generations, on how to live WITH Earth, not just ON it. If every elementary school taught a "green" lesson once a month, and if every highschool had environmental classes available to its students, it would make a huge difference in the relationship between man and earth.
To me, being a patriot means Caring for everyone. Fighting only when necessary, and as a last resort. Fighting for morals and values. Seeing all aspects of a situation and life in general.
Thanks.
Being a true patriot, committing yourself to being a dedicated, responsible member of any one nation requires one to consider oneself a citizen of the earth. We cannot exist as a nation without the rest of the world, and we have to learn to think of ourselves as part of a single global community.
I'm amazed about how people are so insensitive to what's happening around them. They need to be (figuratively speaking) hit over the head with messages through the media about recycling, shutting off water faucets, shutting out lights,etc. Like a drop of water, it seems so insignificant, but add millions and it has such an impact! We can be true patriots of the earth. Make it our responsibility to learn all we can to reuse, recycle, go green. The government should punish corporate polluters in a very real way. Companies that want to be environmentally conscience should be encouraged and given assistance in developing by government instead of giving tax incentives to corrupt corporations like big oil. As the so called leader of the free world, we are lagging behind in making any attempts to improve conditons of our planet. We should be setting examples for the rest of the world, being that we are one of the largest consumers of national resources and one of the largest polluters of the world. Going green should be pressed upon every citizen and made available to everyone like their life depended upon it - because it does.
Bad Start: "Global warming is the crisis of our time." XX Even Bush finally acknowledges it’s Global Climate Change, not just warming. And you want a positive, not neg header. I agree with the effort to take back the term “patriot” and to, by keeping the word “new” in front, educate the US citizenry that we ARE patriotic by helping restore our environmental credibility abroad, by taking responsibility for causing 40% of the global climate change! I agree with the comment to regulate US-owned Trans-National Corps, and
respectfully suggest the following heading and changes too:
PATRIOTS CARE ABOUT REDUCING OUR DAMAGE TO THE EARTH
As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s birthday, we renew our commitment to the qualities and values that have guided our nation well, when heeded, for 231 years.
Today, patriotism is not only about love of country, it is about love of planet. All species and peoples share the limited natural resources of this small globe. We, American Patriots, must again lead the way in protections benefiting our planet.
Future generations will judge us based on our success or failure to be good stewards of the Earth. We owe our children and our children’s children nothing less than our very best effort to slow and repair some of the damages we have wrought on our air, waters, and biodiversity. All Patriots must work together, globally and nationally and locally.
We the undersigned, pledge to:
• Be mindful consumers, by minimizing our personal “Carbon footprints” and our unnecessary or wasteful consumptions;
• Be active citizens on all scales, from our neighborhoods to our national leaders to the global environment;
• Be educators by pressing our elected officials to take urgent action now to pass strong legislation to cut America's global warming pollution;
• And by educating our friends, neighbors, families and children to make sure they recognize that each American is important in helping the globe meet this urgent, crucial challenge.
------thanks for helping me be proud to be American again, if this works!!
Build a better mass transit system, expand our mass transit system, and use it. Bring back blimps for transport and travel. Slow down when driving.
Drive fossil fuel-powered vehicles less. Ride a bicycle, walk, use an electrical powered vehicle (especially if the electricity is not fossil fuel derived).
Build up and in. Urban sprawl must cease. Planned unit developments must become a way of life.
Eliminate all long haul trucks from the roadways. Trucks should only be used for local hauling.
Carefully examine the true thermodynamic feasibility of so-called alternative energies (there is no such thing as alternative energy!). Conserve energy and improve the efficiency of all activities such as energy consuming extraction, manufacturing, and agricultural processes; machines; appliances; and distribution systems (transport).
Minimize flying, and eliminate personal jet air crafts.
Limit home size to 2,000 square feet.
Eat plants. Eat locally grown produce. Do not eat "organically" certified foods, unless it is grown locally. Reexamine the standards for "organic" certification to be more based on thermodynamic processes. Grow recombinantly modified plants, if the plants use less inputs such as water, insecticides, fertilizer, and the like. Grow recombinantly modified plants if they produce more nutritious food, and if they are more productive.
Control population growth to decrease global population.
Decrease the wealth gap.
Decrease consumption. Recycle. Planned obsolescence must cease. Design for longevity and no waste.
Eliminate homelessness.
Increase health and educational access.
Consider environmental impacts of war. What would happen if war required an EIA? Disarm the globe; use the nuclear potential for clean power.
Eliminate fallacious benefit of money grubbing CO2 brokers. Buying CO2 credits doesn’t decrease outputs. Purchasing CO2 credits rationalizes possibly wasteful use of energy. Wealth is no excuse for waste.
Use common sense. As Barry Commoner discussed, the circle of life is broken. We must reclose the circle.
Ensure all future generations.
I shivered when I learned about the terrible consequences of global warming; more storms, more destructive hurricanes, more severe droughts, the extinction of countless animal species , the disturbtion of ecosystems, the devastation of our wonderful coral reefs, millions of people who will starve to death because of more failed crops and the melting of the Greenland ice sheet which will rise the sea level by 6 metres and flood large parts of the world. I was unsettled, sad and worried. We can't sit on the sideline and wait until climat change causes irreversible damage to our planet. We must act now, reduce our CO2 emissions. Fortunately, there are many things we can do to lower our heat-trapping pollution, driving hybrid cars, installing solar panels, biking to work or to school or using public transport, purchasing electricity from green sources and voting for political leaders who don't only promise to combat global warming but also take concrete measures to do that. But individual action is not enough. Also the US government has to regard fighting global warming as one of their priorities. The Bush administration has to enforce strict laws requiring the development and sale of fuel efficient cars by carmakers and the use of energy-efficient technologies in all industrial branches. The leaders of the US should inform their people more about the possibilities to fight global warming, like green cars, energy-efficient appliances, solar panels... and encourage them to use these solutions with financial subsidies. I resent that the US government refused to sign the Kyoto-protocol. Everyone should be involved in fighting global warming ; every citizen of the world and the government of each country.
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