The Second Draft of the Declaration
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.
Today, we recognize that patriotism is not only about love of country. It is also about a shared commitment to the welfare of 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.
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;
- Spread the word, by educating our friends, neighbors and loved ones and making sure they recognize that each of us has a role to play in meeting this all-important challenge.
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983 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 600 of 983 Newer› Newest»True patriots do the research and do not blindly support big corporate propaganda claims in order to feel as though they are doing something to be "green". The mega-costs, both to the taxpayer/ratepayer and the dessimation of bird & bat habitats and populations (the other major pollinators we rely on in the face of the mysterious disappearance of our honeybees), for the massive installation of industrial wind farms is despicable. Industrial wind can not, and will not, reduce our dependence on foreign oil or fossil fuels. We need to clean up the RELIABLE energy sources we will continue to depend on, and put our tax dollars into energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and conservation efforts nation-wide in EVERY person's home to truly reduce our emissions. The auto industry needs to be made accountable for providing fuel-efficient cars. Industrial wind, the brain-child of ENRON in the U.S., is a giant corporate welfare scam that could not exist without the huge tax subsidies and incentives provided by the government with our tax dollars! Industrial wind = ENRON = RIP OFF!
It is being a member of this World. We are all in this together.
Let the crisis of global warming become the impetus for countries to warm toward one another, and fill the gaps so often bridged by war and sociopolitical and economic strife.
We will strive to use our critical faculties to the utmost and put aside bias,prejudice,preconception and parochial self-interest. If we fail to do these things, our efforts wil be tainted and flawed, and their fruits will not long endure.
We have to wake up the ordinary citizen to their responsibility to conservation. Change starts with the individual and no good cause has ever been accomplished without a revolution of sorts. The only control I have over global warming is to do my small part and have it become part of the larger effort. Conserve, Recycle, Set Example, Voice The Cause with everyone you come in contact with. Be aware and choose the best candidates, they work for us.
When the government is tied and bound by corporations, the banks and the political/economic infrastructure, who are freely polluting the environment, It's not "WE THE PEOPLE" who are guilty of the crisis of GW, but the government itself.
Patriotism? Please rethink the premise of this. If we don't go after the true cause of GW and take full control of our system, we will have allowed ourselves to be led off the edge of the cliff.
ALL the people need to be patriotic in this. Not just a fraction of the people. We are oppressed by the federal government. (corporations) We need to be liberated from the corporations, banks and bureaucracy before global warming can be addressed.
I feel being a "patriot" is being one whom is on the front line to execute change.
The change which we choose to create on the global level. That change in saving our planet which mounting evidence is suggesting an end to our entire ecosystem. The solutions are there if only we set aside our differences and release our fears that are presented by the current economic systems.
We can achieve our way of life and even improve on it by releasing the myths which have been created in our consciousness.
It is not one nations issues or one culture, it is a declaration for all of humanity!
Tim
I love the words in an Episcopal prayer that refer to "this fragile earth, our island home." We are all on this fragile island together and must work to save it from destruction. Clearly global warming and many other serious problems require global solutions. Let's work to elect an administration eager to take on those challenges instead of eager to ignore them and make them worse.
While production is a good thing we need to look at what the secondary unintended byproducts are. If we required all manufacturers and mining to utilize their wastes in secondary products perhappes we would not have as many poluted streams and lakes.
Regarding BEEs and their decline. Several points,
1) pesticides are used right on the hives themselves! For mite control.
2) genetically modified foods are everywhere (corn) in the US, and yet have barely been tested. Make note of the percentage decline in the US, and contrast with the declines in Europe, where GM foods are banned or restricted. This is an area for research!
3) Organically managed Bees have Not Declined, remarkably!
Temporary conclusion: go organic, stay organic! And research carefully the cause of this decline!
We...You...they...and Us mean nothing to this planet with out its own declaration. Lets define these characters before we perform a promise we can’t keep. Then maybe these words will be powerful and sincere.
We didn't start global warming and can't end it just like we didn't start it or are able to end it on the other planets in the solar system that are experiencing global warming. But we shouldn't be so vain that we think we can do something that throughout the existence of this world has only been done by the sun. We shouldn't destroy the world economies for a quick fix that ends up costing us much more once global cooling starts. That would be like a farmer who uses a mule to plow his field seeing his neighbor use a tractor to plow his larger field selling his mule to buy a tractor that costs him more to use than his mule and eventually causes him to sell the farm. We can't end our total dependence on fossil fuels today and expect to prosper tomorrow. We must replace our dependence on fossil fuels with alternative energy sources that produce more energy to promote economic growth. We also shouldn't try to replace cheap energy sources with expensive energy sources that aren't developed sufficiently. Replacing a car that gets 30 miles per gallon that costs $10,000 with a car that gets 45 miles per gallon that costs $150,000 doesn't make long-term sense. But replacing a polluting car that gets 30 miles per gallon that costs $10,000 would make sense if the $90,000 replacement car uses stacked flywheel storage units instead of batteries or fuel cells and the range is over 500 miles per respinnings of the flywheels.
A patriot does what he does, even if it is not appreciated now, in order to be appreciated by future generations. Quick fixes that solve immediate problems can produce dire consequences in the future while thoughtful actions that may not solve immediate problems could prevent future problems that may be worst. We don't want to do something about global warming that will receive temporary praise but future hatred and disasters.
If there is little or nothing left, what is there to be patriotic about or to?
Unfortunately the term "patriotism" has a history of being associated with male-dominated nationalism, which further evokes tendencies toward genophilia and all-out racism.
While the intentions may be good to reword the Declaration, we must first be exceptionally careful in the language being used.
Global warming and other environmental issues demand an evolution away from stoic "fatherland" attitudes and a reciprocal move towards active, yet humble stewardship, as well as an embrace of foreign welfare and respect of diverse lifestyles. This has nothing to do with patriotism.
American superiority is not something to be proud of just yet.
I know that most of us who want to make a difference feel the need for powerful statements expressing outrage with the condition of our world today, both home and abroad. I applaud each and every one for their enthusiasm. But, remember, sometimes the strongest impacts can come from a whisper. We each need to take individual stands to make change. With that kind of power the small can over run the powerful. Let's work for the world on a united front.
Everyone should do their part. It starts with us. Buy organic, whenever possible. Pick up after your pet (even if no one sees you & you are in a remote place). Throw trash in its proper receptacle. Recycle. Walk more, drive less. Boycott buying gas on certain days every month or week. Pick up litter on the streets when you can. Use earth friendly products (detergents, cleansers, etc.) Set a good example & teach your children well. I don't think it is necessary for anyone, except the military to drive Hummers.
Someone should make a movie that shows what living here is going to be like in 30 years if we don't change. Sadly a lot of people need to be scared of something to take action.
This is not so much a new patriotism but a rekindling of the old. As Americans, we have lost the faith and trust of the leaders of this nation. They have turned their backs on us as well as the rest of the world. The poor, the needy, and the sickly have been cast aside to make way for the new generation of the greedy. So many issues have been cast aside along with the lowly ones being labeled as unnecessary and expensive allowing the weathiest to reap the explosive profits of their investments and ownerships. These leaders I speak of act in their own self-interest and that of their cronies leaving the rest of us to fend for ourselves. Environment is one of the prices we pay for their leadership
There needs to be a focus on the local as a solution the global. Change happening on a global scale must be organized my communities and smaller-scale action in order to be most effective. So as we are saying, we must be patriotic members of our world, it starts with being active members of our local community. I think with the issue of global warming, we must all be aware of how it is affecting our world and see what we can change in our daily lives, choices, consumption patterns, local government, community energy sources, and then work our way up the line to the state, national, and global level.
I agree with Jonathan, the issue of globaal warming has become an issue of social justice and environmental destruction. no time in the history of the earth has one species radically changed the planet as we have therefor we are responsible to fix the mess we started. "clean up the spilled milk" in a sense!
The new patriotism is for the Earth. It is that stirring of indignation in one's gut when the Earth and it's more defenseless creatures and are affronted with the consequences of unbridled selfishness and greed and/or misdirected action that degrades the planet. It is a deep sense of stewardship that gives rise to concerted civic involvement. It is, in its essence,love and respect for and commitment to the welfare of this little revolving ball of energy/matter that we call planet Earth.
I'm not trying to be a trouble maker, but is global warming man made or a natural occurance, there seems to be no clear evidence on either side, everything has a tag-a-long agenda, my advice drop all the rhetoric and allow a clear dialogue on just the topic of global warming is it real or not and if real what are the true causes. I've read so much but still question, because the agendas are so blatant.
Each one of us must take responsibility for the condition of our environment. Each one of us contributes to its degradation, every day.
We were taught in school, and at home, to be good consumers and buy as if there were no tomorrow.
We must unlearn that stuff, and learn to carry an environmental ethic, adding it to knowing the difference between right and wrong.
It won't be our generation that makes a difference. We will have to train the next generation how important the healthy functioning of the environment is. Our chance to leave a cleaner world behind us is past, so let's do everything we can to make sure the next generation has the tools to make a difference.
Kudos to those that figured this out years ago. Shame on those who put their head in the sand. We all know that the auto industry and air travel took over the world and almost obliterated the railroads. Increasing bicycle commuter paths would keep us healthier and that is something politicians never seen to take into account. Also they are afraid to take the auto industry to task by ordering them to manufacture smaller and more fuel efficient vehicles. The auto industry is always at leaast 5 years behind the times.
I feel that we as a nation need to stand united again against all that will hurt us as a planet, for without this planet we will cease to exist. If each one of us showed just one other person how to act accordingly we would survive.
"We the people of the United Nations, in order
to form a more perfect union, establish
justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide
for the common defense, promote the general
welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to
ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and
establish this Constitution for the United
Nations of Earth.
Article I. Section 1. All legislative powers
herein granted shall be vested in a Congress
of the United Nations, which shall consist of
a General Assembly (Senate) and a Parliamentary
Assembly (House of Representatives)...."
You get the idea...
As Americans, the greatest thing we can give
to the world is democracy itself. Not a phony,
forced democracy or a "democracy" of the rich
and powerful nations and corporations, but a
democracy of ALL the People of the World from
the bottom up. The world needs, and it is time
for, a democratically elected world House of
Representatives or a UN Parliament.
Albert Einstein said that world peace would
only be possible with a world democracy.
"No Justice, no Peace"
Our foreign and domestic policies are inextricably connected to our anti-environmental policies. We drive as though oil is unlimited and not polluting, and expect our soldiers to die so our SUV's can continue to run; we complain about "high" gas prices without understanding the true costs of being fossil fools; and our laziness and resistance to change and sacrifice, as individuals and with corporate complicity, continue to increase global warming as well as shed blood for resources in others' lands to which we believe we are entitled as God's "chosen people" in our "shining city on the hill" overlooking (in all senses of the term) the rest of the people and life on earth. Environmentalists, anti-war activists, and anti-imperialist activists have so much common ground that it is foolish and suicidal if we do NOT work together to change things.
Look at the environmental mess that was handed down to us by our parents and grandparents. Do we want to continue polluting the planet and destroying ecosystems with the mentality "Why should I care? I'll be dead by the time the planet collapses." Or should we make a few key lifestyle changes and set a good example for our children and grandchildren so they are in a better situation? Let's do what makes sense so our future children and animals of the earth have cleaner air and water than what we have now.
As I read the declaration and then the comments, it struck me that although one or two people hinted around the edges, absolutely no one spoke about the fact that all of the businesses and corporations that they speak of are owned by the ultra-wealthy. It isn't the corporations that we need to be addressing, it is the wealthy people who actually own and control these businesses. For example, the group that is working so hard to reign in Walmart constantly asks for their members and others to write to the Walmart Board of Directors. This is so absurd! The Walmart Board of Directors no more controls Walmart than you or I do. Walmart is majority owned and run by the 4 Sam Walton heirs who are each and every one worth more than 16 billion dollars. Together they have more money than the wealthiest person in the world, Bill Gates.
Here is my suggestion. We should all concentrate our energies on addressing the people who are really in control. I don't mean this in the usual conspiracy theory sense but in the fact that those who actually own the corporations, the stock holders, and those who hold the greatest influence on our political leaders, whether you want to believe this or not, are the ones who ultimately hold the power to make things change for the better or worse.
We should also hold our leaders to set a good example for everyone else to follow. Although I admire and respect both Al Gore and John Edwards very deeply, I must agree with many of their critics, like the Senators who questioned Al Gore during his testimny before Congress. If Al Gore is truly so interested in reducing his "energy footprint," then why does he still live in an enormous mansion that has an enormous energy footprint? Why isn't he leading by example? How can he ask us to buy electric cars, walk to the grocery store, turn down our winter-time thermostats, and all of the other sacrifices he speaks of daily, while he continues to live a lifestyle that is extremely detructive to our environment? John Edwards is no different. He also lives in an enormous home that has a huge energy footprint.
If we can convince our representatives in government to set good examples and our wealthiest citizens to share even a small portion of their incredible wealth to combat the nearly insurmountable problems that we face, we can win these battles. Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, Americans have come to worship wealth more than anything else. I am not proposing socialism or taking money from the wealthy but that we reach out to them and and try to make them understand that there is a point where enough is enough and that there is no human being on this planet who needs to own billions of dollars. I don't have a set figure in mind, I just know that it is virtually impossible for anyone to spend the amounts of money owned by the 200 wealthiest people in the world during their lifetimes or their chioldren's lifetimes, or their children's children's lifetimes, ad nauseum!
So I say that the declaration should directly address these issues and at the least ask the wealthy and our representatives in government to lead by example and to share their enormous good fortune with those who are much less fortunate than they are.
I will leave you with this, why can't the wealthiest family in the world, the Waltons, whose combined wealth is the greatest in the world by far, even share enough of this wealth to provide their employees, who make their wealth possible in the first place, with health insurance for themselves and their families? Since they already have over a combinesd 64 billion dollars, why can't they stop and turn Walmart into a non-profit corporation and use its economic might to help combat "climate change," pollution, and poverty? We need to implore them to understand that we are ALL in this together and that it is in the best interest of them and their families to join with us.
Either we do something right now about Global Warming or we or our future generations pay the price later. Later will be here sooner than we think.
Stop global warming by decreasing gas waste in conflicts by conflict resolution. Make over 30 miles per gallon mandatory by 2010. Insulate all buildings and homes.
People and nations must come together, face-to-face, to discuss, plan, and resolve the problems of our society and world. We must strive to better understand one another, because it is only through effective interpersonal communication that we can truly work together in an effective manner that will benefit society at large. Most importantly, we must do this to protect ourselves, our future, and our environment.
The Bush cabal must be ousted from
power.
The American populace must do to
the Bush cabal what Italians did
to Musilini at the end of WWII
It is our inherent right, our sovoureign right, to live free and have happiness, clean water , clean air,clean foods.Let our Town Halls govern ourselves, dismantle the pompous beast that lies and lives outside our hearths.
I think the title of the declaration should be Declaration of a New World Order (or maybe Green World Order). Patriotism seems to just create too many preconceived notions in American minds. The Bush Regime has driven their warped idea of what patriotism is into our collection skull.
Also, I feel that corporations MUST be included in this declaration. All individuals have to contribute to the solution(s) to global climate change and according to the 14th Amendment (no matter how sick and twisted it is), corporations are considered individuals. Every American should be REQUIRED to see the documentary called The Corporation. The producers of the film basically conduct research to conduct a psychological profile of these "individuals" and determines that their behavior can be likened to a serial killer.
I am troubled by the word "Patriotism". For me, this word implies too tribal an attitude for the world we now live in. We have to get over thinking in terms of our small little group, even if it is the USA. We also must discard the one only thinking..that what I do surely can't harm the big world. Lastly, big business must become less concerned about profit above all, at any cost, and continue doing business in the same way. I include companies from all countries.
Here is my edit of the 2nd draft of the Declaration:
As we prepare to survive the next fifty years on Earth, we review our notion of the qualities and values that have guided our nation for more than 200 years.
Today, we recognize that mere patriotism is not enough to save life on earth. In actual fact, we need to grow beyond the original patriotism of our ancestors to a firm commitment using, yes, "our lives, fortunes, and our sacred honor," and include a deep, unequivocal, shared commitment to the welfare of our families, communities, countries, and,indeed, most importantly, a commitment to ensure the survivance of all life on Earth.
In fact, future generations, should they succeed us, will judge us based on our success or failure to be good stewards of the Earth. This is a notion beyond the local, to include the fundamental notion that we are all connected to the earth, atmosphere, water, flora and fauna--all life is inextricably part of the web of the planet. We are morally obligated to consider the welfare of all life on Earth, including people, for at least the next seven generations. Considering the critical state of the Earth now, our goal of securing that welfare requires nothing less than our very best effort.
We the undersigned, pledge to:
* Be active citizens, by pressing our elected officials to take urgent action now, and by pressing all candidates for office to commit to passing only legislation that ensures the current and future health of the flora, fauna, air and atmosphere, the earth, the waters, and the peoples of this Earth. Of course this means moving to an economy that relies, not on petroleum products, but on renewable, nonpolluting, earth-friendly resources;
* Be mindful of the harm done by a corporate culture of heedless and needless consumerism and profiteering. Instead we dedicate ourselves to minimizing our business consumption of non-renewable, polluting, non-recyclable items. We dedicate ourselves to construct local and international networks of healthy foods, soils, waters, air, and economies, as much as possible, and to make our corporate global warming “footprints as small as is practicable;”
* Be mindful of the harm done by a culture of heedless and needless consumerism by individuals. Instead we dedicate ourselves to minimizing our personal consumption of non-renewable, polluting, non-recyclable items. We dedicate ourselves to construct local networks of healthy foods, soils, waters, air, economies in as much as it is possible, and to make our personal global warming “footprints as small as is practicable;”
* Dedicate ourselves to the toleration of differences and the development of stronger connectedness between our people, and all life, air, and water on the lands in this more environmentalist, and more democratic, republic.
*Be mindful that in states of war, these principles become impossible to maintain, and hence, should there be a potential war between us and another nation, all possible alternatives to warring must be tried to the ultimate degree beforehand. Wars should be seen realistically as threatening to all life on the Earth.
* Spread the word, by educating our friends, neighbors and loved ones and making sure they recognize that each of us has a interconnected role to play in meeting this all-important challenge.
Look at the planet you are leaving your children.
Proposing a Light Bulb Challenge
1- Conservation is the most effective way currently to impact climate change.
2- The use of low-energy light bulbs are an astoundingly simple and cost-effective way for everyone to lower their carbon footprint and make big savings in their energy costs.
3- I would like to propose an email challenge for people to replace at least 6 incandescent light bulbs in their home with 6 low-energy light bulbs. The further challenge would be to email 10 friends or relatives and challenge them to make the light bulb replacements and they would then challenge 10 new people.
Information for those wary of the new bulbs:
1- In bulk packs, low-energy light bulbs are not that expensive and they last for years. They are available in large retail stores including Home Depot.
2- The low-energy bulbs use ¼ of the electricity as incandescent bulbs do.
3- There are 3 colors to choose from, soft white, bright white and daylight. The soft white is equivalent to an incandescent. They sometimes a second to warm up.
4- For reviews and comparisons of different brands and colors of low-energy bulbs, there is a wonderful page, FIND A BULB, on the Environmental Defense’s site, www.environmentaldefense.org.
We are part of the planet, if we hurt the planet, we hurt ourselves - think toxic waste and birth defects, whatever is killing the bees and what plants we will be able to grow, etc.
In my opinion, to be patriotic is taking responsibility for the direction in which your country is headed.
It is not denying your small but influential contributions to corruption.
Most importantly it is wanting to have an educated conscience by knowing more and assuming less.
A patriot is one who cares about conservation, protecting natural resources in his country, as well as the rest of the world, for future generations. We need to care what is happening to our planet, and find ways to try to undo what has been done.
My thought is just this:
Since our first "Declaration" was of independence, then this one should appropriately be of "Dependence". After all, we are dependent on each other to be rational; we are dependent on the earth to be life giving; and the earth, in all her glory, is dependent on us to be good stewards. And, as in the first Declaration, these truths should be held as self-evident.
It seems a collaboration is in order of religion, state, and business, to come together and define a common ground on which we can all abide. Kudos to all who collaborate in good faith, and utter rejection to all who don't.y
"Methane and Vegetarianism
By far the most important non-CO2 greenhouse gas is methane, and the number one source of methane worldwide is animal agriculture.
Methane is responsible for nearly as much global warming as all other non-CO2 greenhouse gases put together. Methane is 21 times more powerful a greenhouse gas than CO2. While atmospheric concentrations of CO2 have risen by about 31% since pre-industrial times, methane concentrations have more than doubled. Whereas human sources of CO2 amount to just 3% of natural emissions, human sources produce one and a half times as much methane as all natural sources. In fact, the effect of our methane emissions may be compounded as methane-induced warming in turn stimulates microbial decay of organic matter in wetlands—the primary natural source of methane.
With methane emissions causing nearly half of the planet’s human-induced warming, methane reduction must be a priority. Methane is produced by a number of sources, including coal mining and landfills—but the number one source worldwide is animal agriculture. Animal agriculture produces more than 100 million tons of methane a year....."
Read the whole article on www.earthsave.org Click on "...A New Global Warming Strategy", by Noam Mohr.
Global warming is only one symptom of a much larger problem: over consumption and ecological devestation. The language of the declaration ought to be changed to indicate global warming as only one part of the larger ecological challenges we face. In order to accomplish this I offer these three suggestions:
1) The integration of democratic capitalism with ecologically sound methods of production and consumption.
2) Transparency in government and buisness with serious penalties for rule breakers and ecologically destructive practices.
3) Education at all levels must begin to address the ecological realities we face as a species and the shortcomings of democratic capitalism.
It is important to remember that we cannot stop climate change, but we can adapt and learn to live with it. Ultimately it may teach us to live in greater harmony with our environment and one another. That is my hope.
I look forward to reading futrue drafts of the declaration.
Let it be a issue about sustainabilty of life not a political or economic one as it is now. Also I want the Political Correct people to remember that offending others about how perfect they are only extends the problems, so use a soft loving approach when conveying your ideas to a self-destructive world and interject some caring for future generations if not making yourself less of a toxic waste dump and more of a part of nature instead of above it all. Sustainability, sustainability, sustainability!
Everywhere there are signs that global warming has already begun taking its toll with widespread effects already in motion: shrinkage of the Sierra ice caps which provide California's water supply in large part, reduction of the ocean's ability to absorb CO2 - specifically the Southern Ocean which is even releasing CO2 back into the atmosphere, the obvious plight of Arctic animals, damage to the food supply and habitat of Antactica's species, specifically penguins, increase of violent weather - recent tornados in America, and these are just a few of the indicators. Obviously we must act now and do so radically, bwecause again obviously we are all, man, beast and planet, in danger.
We must preserve this planet the way God intended it to be preserved. After all, we are just it's residents. Corporate greed must be overcome in favor of conservation of natural resources. Wildlife cannot defend itself against human destruction and there will come a time when humans will not be able to defend themselves, either. If we stop, or at least, diminish the damage we are doing to the environment, nature will take its course and heal itself. Nature can repair itself, as seen countless times after natural disasters and man-made pollution. There is a lake in my area that has been polluted by industries located along its banks. These companies have gone, but after many years, there is evidence now that the lake is repairing itself. Fish are returning and the water is clearing. It is possible, but we must do what we have to do to start the process worldwide.
It's time for a revolution...
Everyone needs to wake up and shake off the shackles of corporate control. Corporations DO NOT care about the environment. They only care about makeing a profit right now, today. They DO NOT care about tomorrow, they don't care about your children or mine.
Corporations control the government, along with many other aspects of American life. We will die off for sure if we keep the same system in place. The corporate system is not sustainable. The government knows it is beholden to the corporations and it will not make regulations to go against them, despite the fact that they are necessary to ensure the survival of the human race. Not to mention the survival of Americans...
Corporations do not care about the survival of the human race. They are only caught up in a game of profit and as long as they can squeeze a profit out of the general public with lies, they will continue to do so.
The government is not going to help us out of this situation. The power rests with the people. The people need to be educated or the system will continue. The only way out of this situation is a mass rejection of the forms of technology that have brought us here and the mass demand for the technology that will get us out of it. That demand will never come if the public is not thoroughly educated.
Get to work...I already am.
Finally being green is the new red, white and blue!
Try being "green" for a day by reducing, reusing and recycling. Some helpful green tips are if you don't have to drive anywhere, go on a walk instead. Make the hybrid switch. Trade in your gas powered lawn mower for either a solar or electric one. Try to save energy where you can. Turn down your thermostat two degrees. Wash your clothes in cold water and hang as many out on the clothesline to dry as you can. Save your food scraps for compost, you'd be amazed at how much you can reduce your trash output by doing this. Turn off lights and other electronics when not in use. Turn off the tap when you're brushing your teeth. Reuse paper bags at the grocery store instead of getting the plastic bags for your food. It takes 1000 years for the plastic bags to decompose! Buy organic food and environmentally friendly and sound cleaning products when you can. What you put down the drain ends up in the ocean where Nemo lives. :-) Plant a tree if you can. Conservation works. Every little bit helps and together we can make a difference. We all leave a footprint on this Earth and need to take part in taking better care of the only home we have, for all future generations of life to come. Let's make Earth Day happen every day.
Peace
~Katherine R. Piana
God created man and he created the universe in which we all live. We all must do everything we can to protect every living entity. It is our responsiblity to enlighten those among us who do not get "global warming"; name calling does not accomplish anything. Each one of us must do all that we can as an individual, collectively as a nation and as members of the entire univserse.
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.
The USA, Australia and other key contributors to global warming must plan for and support the relocation of citizens of Tuvalu, Kiribati, Maldives, , Marshall Islands, etc. to new homelands as sea level rise threatens these countries.
i was listening to my co-workers and hear them make a comment about global warming. they asked me why i bother to worry about the situtation and why i do the things i do and have the beliefs that i have. i am a very commited person to save the envoirment, to do my share, try to teach others to understand the need to care and to do. i do all organic gardening, use no chemicals on the earth, i try to avoid using my car as much as possible to reduce polution and recycle. most people ask me why i bother to do these things, they say that i am only one person so why think i can make a difference. i tell people thta yes i am one person true but if i as 1 person make an effort to help save mother earth and i am able to get another person to do the same and then another person then we have a chain and with a chain we all can make a difference, it all has to start some where. we can make a difference if we give it our all. we just have to make people more aware, that is the key, that is the mission we have and we will win in the end.gmcaz
Those who labor should not be held in subservience,they shall be exalted
Patriotism changed for all Americans some time ago. We were forced to change our perspective not of our own choice or realization but by an unseen hand. Some used that same hand to spur all Americans to feel something, whether we were able to or not, forcing us to raise our voices to lament feelings not wholly our own. The word patriotism was tossed back and forth over the heads of the American public in a game of questionable moral origin. Now, almost six years later, after the flagrant onslaught of headlines and ill-conceived legislation, I feel our sense of patriotism has been numbed and left gasping for life's breath.
We the American people, need a new call to patriotism, one that embraces it's true nature of strength of community and vigor of decisive action. We need a new cause to breathe life back into our hopes of accomplishing those titanic feats that bind us and rally our voices in one echoing cry. I say that cause lies before us like monster stirring in the deep, awakened by decades of unchecked industrialization and consumption.
Global warming is no longer lying dormant in a distant land. It is awake and it is bearing down on us with each passing day. We can stand now, today, with one voice, with one global hand to not only hold back the devistating changes of global warming but to sow the seeds for a cleaner, safer tomorrow. I can think of no cause more noble, no cause more patriotic than the fight against global warming. I am proud of every single person who has already taken a stand and shared their thoughts on this "Declaration of New Patriotism" and I am proud to stand with you. We cannot fail. We cannot wain. And we must all find the patriot within ourselves to ensure a thriving global tomorrow. May God bless you all.
Change 'global warming "footprint"' to 'ecological "footprint."'
As huge as global warming is, it's not the only environmental problem, and as long as people continue to use resources (which seems pretty likely!), we will have conflicts with nature. That will be true long after global warming is (hopefully) under control.
I don't have the right words but the sentence about the kind of consumers we will be needs to go further and say that we will be activist about telling and showing businesses when they are or are not earning our respect and our trade.
“The American moralists do not profess that men ought to sacrifice themselves for their fellow-creatures because it is noble to make such sacrifices; but they boldly aver that such sacrifices are as necessary to him who imposes them upon himself as to him for whose sake they are made. They have found out that in their country and their age man is brought home to himself by an irresistible force; and losing all hope of stopping that force, they turn all their thoughts to the direction of it. They therefore do not deny that every man may follow his own interest; but they endeavor to prove that it is the interest of every man to be virtuous…. The Americans … are fond of explaining almost all the actions of their lives by the principle of interest rightly understood; they show with complacency how an enlightened regard for themselves constantly prompts them to assist each other, and inclines them willingly to sacrifice a portion of their time and property to the welfare of the State.” Alexis de Tocqueville, 1840
I have always had a problem with patriotism. If a person is rich, they can travel the world and live just about any place they want. When a country is at war for the most part the rich go to another country. It is the poor who suffer.
I recommend Judith Butler's essay, Defining the Limits of Patriotism, which highlights the value of fringe opinions. When I marched against the pending war in 2003 in Denton, Texas, I felt like a fringe radical. Now the opposition is mainstream. Same story with global warming. Listen to the fringe. Dialogue with the fringe. There will be fringe benefits.
from: kelsey
to: all of you
to be a patriot is to be who you are and to do what is right and what feels right. but at the same time to do what is nacessarly, to get the job done. to be a patriot is to be a differnt person than the person next to you. and not follow a or the guppy crowd. to keep your opinons on things open and to be proven wrong and to prove your right.
We all need to find our own way to be more efficient, reduce, reuse, recycle. Put the solar panels back on the white house that President Reagan took down, as a start.
200 plus years ago, men were having a similar conversation; they were unhappy with the direction things were heading but it was within the country instead of the world. They took bold action, and now we call them patriots, though at the time they were called criminals and traitors. We all have an obligation to be advocates for the environment and to the creatures in it for all that we have taken from it, exploited from it, and forever removed from it due to our greed and our ignorance.
I share the opinion of many of the posters that the political process is slow to react and too dependent upon corporations to achieve the change required. In that regard, it is up to us as citizens to affect the change we want.
To this end, I would change the bullet points of the following to include more adamant language and challenge each of us to fulfill it. The time for conservative language and strategies has long since passed.
We the undersigned, pledge to:
· Hold ourselves accountable. Each of us is responsible for the situation our planet faces. Before we can demand change of others, we must be willing to change ourselves. We will reflect this decision in the choices we make as consumers considering both the consequences of our actions and foregoing irresponsible activities when no alternative is available.
· Be active citizens, by pressing our elected officials to take urgent and significant action now, by pressing all candidates for office to commit to passing strong legislation, and by demanding that environmental issues become a meaningful part of the political debate;
· Spread the word, by voicing our stance on the environment and educating our fellow citizens making sure they recognize why this is critical and that each of us has a role to play.
^D^
Create a new kind of bacteria that would take CO2(Carbon Dioxide) from the air and seperate Carbon atom from oxigen. That bacteria would use the sunlight to do this. It would multiply itself and self destoy after it has done its job.
It would be released from air plane into a polluted area. It would be a catalitic chemical reaction. It has to use photon energy to do the reaction. It has to be dustlike, kept in the dark and when released, it would start the reaction. The bacteria would get heavied and heavier and would drop from air, as a carbon ball. It would be a very simple bacteria and have a very short life. When in reaction the temperature of the air where the bacteria operates would drop.
In 10 year s the carbon dioxide level would drop by half if bacteria is created today.
We all must acknowledge and understand the concept of carrying capacity, and especially how it directly applies to our species.
I don't know, this "declaration' sounds so bland. It needs more impact to catch the attention of the public.
The message is important, the packaging is bland.
Does anyone get what I'm saying?
we say that patriosm is pride for our country- i say that patriosm is the person who picks up the litter on the side of the road, or the one who works against the politicians avoiding global warming- or as Bill Vaughan said, A real patriot is the fellow who gets a parking ticket and rejoices that the system works.
I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot.
~Gary Hart
wlgiqTo be a patriot is to care for and act for the well-being of one's country. Global warming is a natural reality that, if unchecked, will destroy not only the U.S.A., but, indeed, the entire world. To be a patriot, therefore, in regards to this crotical issue, is to do everything in one's power to bring about the deceleration and eventual stopping of global warming.
Do what is right, not what is convenient (by, caleb 5/18/07) is this emotion shared w/abortions (over 30 million so far) NO! Law suites over spilled coffee, Gov. entitlements that make people dependant on handouts. Why is New Orleans still full of problems? Could it be the majority of citizens have no skills other than waiting for Uncle Sam. Global warming is irrelevant, the first Declaration of Independance stated freedom from the control, influence, support or help from others. Do what is right, not what is convenient, well said mr.caleb !
WE CAN EITHER PULL TOGETHER AS A PLANET TO
SAVE MOTHER EARTH AND HER TREASURES OR WATCH MOURNFULLY AS IT EXPIRES. THE TIME IS NOW AND THE CLOCK IS TICKING. EDUCATE. EDUCATE. EDUCATE GLOBALLY.
A good patriot supports public ethics - fair, scientifically sound, sustainable solutions to value and resource conflicts - regardless of their personal values.
There is no room in this world for patriotism. It is a false concept. What matters is that we want the extermination of species to end, we who see all life on this planet as equally important and who know that human life is no more precious than any other.
in the words of mark twain; 'patriotism is loving your country always and your government when it deserves it'. i wholeheartedly agree.
Drive less (or not at all)
It's good for your health and the environment.
Consume less.
Buy locally.
Compost.
You have to be careful about 'redefining' patriotism...it is already so 'de-valued currently through misuse. Yes, planetary stewardship is something a patriot has to be smart enough to figure prominently into his statesmanship, AMEN; but if you get too 'sloganic' and polemic with the rhetoric you lose the communication value to traditional patriots.
AMEN, too, to the 'seventh generation' idea at least implied.
Global warming is directly connected to the burning of fossil fuels. Consequently, encouraging the research into alternative energy sources and implementation thereof would be an obvious solution. I found that many of the comments posted did not deal with global warming but with being environmentally responsible citizens. My question would be is the Declaration specifically about global warming, or about being environmentally responsible as well?
We can go on and on about the oil companies and auto manufacturers and yes, the corporate world must change. But why should they when consumers continue to demand the large gas guzzling vehicles, which I see every morning and evening on my commute (no passengers, only the driver!) Unless there is personal accountability first, at home, until consumers change their ways.....why should the oil companies & auto manufacturers change? It is "Supply and Demand."
Toxins Trade.
Global warming is distracting us from the current trade in neurotoxins, carcinogens, biohazards, and the like. Our current administration loves big deferrable distractions to hide it's dirty business. DU to Iraq. US banned pesticides to China. Toxic food, rubber, cloth, and so on, back to the US. We buy food, goods, and building materials that are harmful to life, the GLOBAL environment, the people producing the item, and the end users. Diligence is a duty. Spend as if your life is on the line. It is!
If it is a given that patriotism today is defined as a global, non-sectarian issue, then the below would follow:
a) We need to leave a smaller CO2 footprint. Period. That means economizing in our use of resources and in the production of the products that we need.
b) This does not necessitate economic starvation. On the contrary, it could fuel (and already has started to) a revolution in the products we use, from LED or flourescent lighting to alternative fuels, to the very foods we eat. The rainforests sequester a large amount of the C02 which we produce, and many are being cut down in order to produce cash crops. One of those is beef for the American table. One or two less meat meals a week would help this.
c) In general, we need to acknowledge that our population is only a small amount of the world's population and we use a disproportionate amount of the world's resources. We, China, and India can lead the way in showing the rest of the world how to economize in industrialized societies.
d) This is not only a moral imperative, but one of survival as well. We all have a stake in keeping climate change at bay, and in reversing the trend.
I don't understand why there is even a debate anymore. Global Warming IS real. You see all the articles almost every week about temperatures rising and carbon amounts in the sea, all the devastating predictions and its almost hurricane season. I cant wait to see what nature has in store this season. It seems that America has almost just given up. (I'm not sure about the rest of the world) It's seems that we've accepted it to either happen or not happen. So let's just accept it. Let's just accept the fact that whatever is going to happen will happen. There's nothing we can do to stop it. Just have fun while you're on Earth.
I cant accept this. I cant accept that everyone is living without a care in the world about what we've done. We NEED to do something. I cant accept that YOU can throw your hands in the air and say, 'There are always predictions about how the world gonna end at midnight...' No. This is real. This is factual. I am a young person, and I want kids. I want my kids to have kids. I want life to go on. It can't just end because one generation decides this isn't a problem. I might be rambling but the jist of what I am trying to say is this world will be nothing within this century. HUmanity, our people will have suffered from heartache and loss within this century. We all need each other even if we do not know each other.
We cannot go on with hate in our heart. We cannot go on with blame and fault in our heart. Put our differences aside and let's save the ONLY home we have! Earth is all we have. WE are all we have. Why throw it away when we CAN save it. This is not a lost cause. If it were we wouldn't take the time to write our ideas/thoughts down. You may be old enough to not suffer the effects of this catastrophe. But think of our future. You would hate to look down from heaven and see your blood suffer. And then say, 'I wish I'd have done something...'
Today's allotment of time was devoted to reading all the comments, but I do want to veer slightly off course and make one small comment to dullblade's remarks. Sadly, I think religion has impacted global warming to some degree. It's the mindset that Jesus is coming, and that heaven awaits, so you have no responsibility to the condition the earth is left in behind you. Whether heaven bound or earthbound, this earth here is for everyone - regardless of religious beliefs, we are still responsible for the care of this planet. I don't want to get on a religious tirade, but that one particular attitude upsets me to the core. No one has a carte blanche account to do whatever they want with no regard to the impact it has on our planet.
Oh, and watching the news yesterday, the issue of declining bees came up. One factor was contributed to tainted bee feed - possibly from China. One more factor to consider as we become more environmentally aware - the import of food another argument supporting that we grow our own and shop locally.
Sorry to veer off.
The spiritual connection to Earth is worldwide:
Be a good steward. Waste not, want not.. be content. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in Heaven. These are all comments that pertain to Jesus of Nazareth, Lao Tzu, Zoroaster, Buddha and others.
So when we think of human rights, think also of land rights. With every right, there is responsibility. Declare allegiance to core rights and responsibilities.
I have to start by declaring that I'm not American, I am British.
I cringe at the word "patriotism" as it has its roots in the Latin for "father" & is based on a male dominated society; it is virtually always associated with chauvinism & aggression.
I am, above all, a human being which is more important than being a Christian, Jew, Muslim, American, Russian, Democrat, Republican, male, female, white or colored. The family of humanity and our fragile home must be our first concern and primary allegiance.
The draft currently focuses on our roles as citizens and consumers, but says nothing about our role as workers and producers. I would be willing to commit to influence my employer to take into account the environment and specifically climate modifications as a side-effect of our operations. This seems to be me to be something which has enormous leverage.
Being a patriot is not a term confined only to a certain group, nation or political issue. WE, THE PEOPLE, must understand that everything in this universe is connected and that our actios have consequences not only for us, but also for everything around us (including the Universe). We are part of a whole, and the mission given to us by the Supreme Spirit was to protect and preserve all the wonders around us to continue sharing His GIFT OF LIFE not only with our fellows, but also with every living creature now and in future generations. We must understand once and for all that NATURE can be without us, but WE can't survive without NATURE.
First of all, what is Patriotism? As we all know, it is not the governments job to define what patriotism is to U.S. citizens or even to our resident alien population including and especially to the undocumented residing in this country. And the reason why I say that is because the majority of undocumented residents in this country have come here to better their lives because of UnPatriotic U.S. Corporations laying off hundreds of thousands of U.S. workers to maximize profits while lobbying Congress and the Senate over the last hundred years or so in a countinous effort to maintain a form of slavery which has been in many ways very subtle and hidden from the public eye by taking their manufacturing to these foreign countries and paying slave wages to their citizens. They are not allowed to unionize, or organize even though that is what's actually happening anyway. This planet is overpopulated. Overpopulation brings out the issues ten fold. These nafarious criminal politicians, CEO's and their lobbiests can no longer control all these angry, disposessed and long trodden upon masses any longer. The citizens of this planet are waking up and criminal organizations such as the Cheney/Bush Conglomerate are being dissolved. Otherwise, why would Halliburton feel compelled to move its headquarters to the Middle East? Well, the very UnPatriotic Cheney is going to have to hide somewhere, right? I have read many of the comments above and they repeat much of the same theme and I have to agree with every one of them. Research the "Pledge of Allegiance", you will find that it has been modified five times and certainly does not mean what it was originally meant to imply from the first draft written by an Alien Resident who loved the United States but also loved the country of his birth. His pledge was to whatever flag or concept was the most important to you. My children are not required to pledge to the flag. The shool where my son goes threatened to expell him and as you can well guess, he was NOT expelled from that school. I tell my children to pledge to family and friends, to their neighborhood, to standing up for justice and equal rights. The present form of the Pledge of Alegiance is only patriotic to most God fearing, War Mongering, Right-Wing Fundamental Armageddonists and to those who have never really paid any attention to the meaning 'behind' the words. In other words, to those who still think that the Cheney/Bush Cabal is the Cats Pajamas. Certainly you do not think for a second that ANY of those connected to or doing business with this criminal oragnization are in any way Patriotic?
i think it means to care for the wellbeing of every individual in the country and outside. by outside, i mean that we share the air with everyone and so we should really be cautious on what gasses our factories are emitting into the air. we need to amend or add to bills like the Clean Air Act. We need to do something ASAP to keep our planet clean and sustainable for generations to come. (Not to mention all the animals already affected by global warming).
Every American needs clean air to breathe and clean water to drink. That's a fact. It is not up for debate. We can't pursue happiness if we can't breathe.
Every form of pollution ultimately affects our supplies of breathable air and potable water and we must fight to keep them plentiful for the entire nation.
Response to: Concerned said...
With regards to overpopulation, you are correct in the idea, in the concept, but you are apparently focusing only on the poor and the (illiterate?). I seriously see that as a bit biggoted or in the least, ill-informed or maybe even disinformed. After my divorce, I started dating again and met a really nice woman with whom I dated for a few months. She was 'educated' but being educated does not necessarily mean having any actual knowledge or especially the most important factor, common sense. She was a mother of two as I am a father of two as well. All she ever spoke of was wanting to have eight or more children with me! Our relationship ended soon afterwards because even though I had spoken to her about the fact that both of us (including our ex's) had already replaced ourselves on the planet, and that creating more human beings places even more burden on the planet, especially in countries such as the United States where we use more than a quarter of the planets resources, she couldn't possibly listen to that. When you replace yourself, that is known as "Zero Population Growth". She didn't care apparently. I know for a fact that she now has four children two of which are out of wedlock. There are many religions that tout overpopulation such as the (I believe) misinterpretation of the command that we "go forth and multiply", what, unabated? Look at us, we're crazy yes, but it is not just the poor and illiterate who are helping to manifest souls on this planet unabated. The reason WHY families historically had several children were for a few reasons; 1. Because infant mortality rates were much higher in the previous several centuries. 2. To help on the farm. 3. Because God told you to. But who exactly, wrote the Bible in the first place? Wasn't it men? And the first manuscripts of the "Bible" weren't even started until 60 years 'after' Jesus's supposed death.
I grew up in the Ute Indian territory and now long hence the millionaires and billionaires ghetto of Aspen, Colorado. (No, I was from a lower middle class family. And yes, it's true, Aspen has working families living there, well not IN Aspen anymore, they mostly all live "Down Valley" where the cost of living is a tiny bit lower. Everyone commutes into town for work.) You know, a very beautiful place where the Ute Indians were long ago run out of this once beautiful valley and forced onto the upper desert plains of the Northeastern plataeu of Colorado by White, Anglo-Saxon Silver Miners. They were moved onto a tiny resevation that does not represent the once large territory of the Utes in any way, shape or form. Did you also know that the U.S. Government has been sterilizing young Native American women since the 1940's? They are still doing it, telling these young Native American women that they have an illness and that it is necessary to either tie their tubes or remove their uteruses all together. But why haven't you heard any of this on the Main Stream Media? Because you never hear ANYTHING of importance on the MSM. So please, do not just blame the poor and so-called "illiterate", thank you.
These small yet sigifinicant changes in the weather we notice and chat with our nieghboors; how other countries and new orleans or any surrounded/ near water suffer because of these small changes. I dont know if Im as educated as some people on here but Im aware of the cause and effect of golbal warming. This issue is not political, is issue is inevitble now as we move deeper and continue to be more involed in the world of consumers and taking part in, I beleive the world as a whole should step up and take care of this something that is the consequence of our actions. By having this green party movement it helps; but honestly not just indivduals who are involed with politics need to be aware, the public as a whole because then by emerging for one cause we can step up and show the poltics if your job is helping us, then do. Maybe then we can change the world with some darn hard work
B.E.D
Let's change the reference from constantly talking about "global warming" to "reversing the climate change" or something positive. I say this because talking about "peace" is more effective than "anti-war". We want to focus to be on the positive change we desire.
Diane
I think patriotism is being loyal to the enviroment.Because if we had everyone to follow with us in our campagin for the enviroment then all this ice from Anartica wouldn't of melted!!
We hold these truths to be self-evident that Global Warming is now the scurge of our planet. That irresponsible and selfish actions are harmful to the environment. These actions are manifestations of corporate greed and a superiority which is biased against the welfare of the common good. Since all men are created equal with unalienable Rights, we must provide for the future security of the planet in which we live.
The Declaration of Independence gives us the right to alter the course if that course is destructive to the Rights of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. The conscious disregard and misrepresentation of this Administration concerning the magnitude and urgency that Global Warming poses is a direct threat to our unalienable Rights. Our government must be mindful that Global Warming, left unattended, can affect our planet's survival. We must, therefore, do everything in our power to provide environmental education that promotes conservation of our natural resources and developement of alternative forms of energy. Our legacy will be the planet we leave for future generations. It is a great responsibility and we all can do our part as stewards of our planet and patriots of a noble cause--SAVING THE EARTH.
Trees are the answer - to carbon sequestration.
Growing trees not only sequester carbon but they emit oxygen, necessary for animal life.
Almost all of our energy-producing devices are based on oxidation of carbon and/or hydrogen. We are not only exacerbating the greenhouse effect with CO2 emissions but depleting our life-giving oxygen supply.
Promote reforestation!
how about take the word "consumer" out of the 1st line of the declaration? how about finding happiness, fulfillment and joy in something other than buying things, and consuming only what is really necessary. what about giving? we need to become a society that celebrates not how much one has, or buys, but how much one gives--giving back to the earth, to the community, to children and to others.
Jonathan is right. This is much more than politics. Big business companies are loosing money already and are trying to coax consumers into buying larger more fuel guzzling vehicles because of it. Global warming requires not just a change of policy but a change of heart, habit, and conscience in us all. As smart as Americans are, we seem to be lagging behind in the green movement. We, as a nation, have the responsiblity and the ability to live green.
Without convincing the government and big business though, I think that individual Americans will have a tough time living green without coming together to speak with one voice demanding that we are given the opportunity, the freedom, the choice to live green.
Change the American mentality;
It is NOT our innate right to use use use then throw away.
It IS our innate duty to be stewards of this beautiful planet that gives us life.
There is no animal who willingly soils it's own nest, but humans.
global warming is destroying the ecosystem of our worlds. michigan's ecosystem is getting pretty bad... because it didn't get cold enough - the mold didn't die out so now there is 2 times the amount of mold and allergy suffers are suffering, EXTREMELY. it's gotten so bad that it's affected my singing ability and others I know at my church - instead of singing we are hacking. if people want a world around in 50 years they better snap to it.
and another thing is that it is difficult to do the right thing these days. for instance, recycling, i have saved TONS AND TONS of plastics with 5's and 6's etc on them... but i mean, there isn't really a point to saving them to be recycled when you can't find a location that will recycle them in the state you live in. it's all commercial commercial commercial, well...what if someone else wants to recyle hua? what if I want to recycle?!?!? ugh, stupid world. it needs a lot of help.
making this world change demands of ourselves such a tiny efford, i think that's why people don't care about it, dont do it for yourselves, do it for your childrens and your childrens' childrens, i bet you can make the difference
We should exercize true sovereignty and self-determination by consuming no more than necessary and living within the limits of our resources; producing locally, not depending on imported energy or cheap labor, and looking beyond our short term economic self interest to promote global sustainability and do no more harm to the climate.
Patriotism is when somebody helps someone or SOMETHING. That something is the world (the only one we have)!!! We really need to try to help save the earth. If the government doesn't relize this soon, then we can all say buh- by!!!!
Our world, our planet, for future generations. The right to live healthy and co-exist with all of our natural wonders.
We are one nation under God with
one language, one allience to
America. If you are not a citizen
you do not get any benifits. you
come here get a job and learn to
read and write english and become
a citizen and your allience to
America and all it requires.
What I think 2/3 of the world's population don't realize is the fact that, sooner or later, if we don't do something about it, this whole planet and its inhabitents are gonna just go to hell. I'm sorry, but that's just the way it is! Like Rachel Carson once said,
"One day, there will be no birds left to sing and no one left to hear them." She was a great person, and my hero; she understood a great deal. But anyway. We can go on living our lives and hope that someone does something about it while we just sit there on our asses, glued to the tv screen, waiting for the news that we're safe. OR. We can actually get out there and DO something about the damn thing! There IS a hole in the ozone layer. There IS global warming. There IS an actual bird flu. And someday, it's gonna hit us, and we won't know what it is. BECAUSE WE NEVER DID ANYTHING ABOUT IT. So get up, get out there, and DO SOMETHING. Maybe you'll be the next Superman. Wonder woman. Anyone you wanna be, you can be. Just get out and do it. Good luck, world. I'll be helping.
As American`s we need to take charge of are world & respect it & not disrespect it & do it know before are world sinks like the Titanic & we all die!As American`s there should be half price sale`s in the spring & summer on camping thing`s like tent`s & rv`s an so on so all American`s can get out & enjoy this bueatiful world God gave us to take care of & so we don`t use alot of electricity as we would at home.As American`s we need to get tough on those who disrespect are earth like those that litter an so on.As American`s I do believe we have the gut`s to do this & make are earth a paradise.
All this rhetoric on the definition of patriotitsm is largely non-productive. We all have dictionaries; we all understand that patriotism is by definition a national sentiment. Speaking of patriotism as a global goal is confusing at this juncture. We must exercise any patriotism for our own country first and foremost. When we take care of home first, the rest falls into place.How do we accomplish that ? Know what, people ? We are a voraciously greedy, self-absorbed consumerist country. We have ALL been manipulated by Wall Street and scary-ambitious political manueverists to become that way. We have been painstakingly tutored to obsess on the momentary pleasure instead of the long-term effects of mass consumption.
Mass consumption is our most looming threat. We buy more, want more and make more than any other nation on the planet. Until we reign that madness waaaaaaaaaaaaay back, we will continue on our current lemming-like course of self-destruction. I agree with a prior poster who said he fears that this rush of interest in saving the environment is but another trendy "in thing" that won't survive the rampant buy-buy-buy being crammed down our throats every waking minute. THAT is why we are running out of clean water, atmosphere and land; THAT is why the landfills are smoldering heaps of toxic waste, because we KEEP BUYING CRAP. We don't need anywhere near all the s**t we consume every day in this country. Instead of buying a whole new carton of milk, rinse out the old container and get them re-filled at a ( sanitary of course) refill kiosk in the market; adapt that process to all consumable goods and a huge impact would be made on our atrocious and shameful national carbon footprint.
Detroit has had electric car technology for the last 25 years. WHY haven't they been produced/marketed before now ? The answer to that question is the answer to almost all our national issues as a country of mindlessly piggish consumers.
We are killing ourselves and hurting our families, raising hopelessly self-absorbed children ( tomorrows' leaders !), as a nation of two-income families, while our little ones are shipped off to day care, where the enculturation as a loyal consumer is begun. There are few homes now where Mom is there at the end of the school day to welcome her children home and help them learn to live a right life. Mom is out working her butt off to afford more iPods and Nikes and Dells and XBoxes. Dad is,too. It is all a sadly preposterous proposition.
Can we ever return to a simpler life, a life which does not offend the eco-balance and every other living thing sharing this planet with us ? Can we do without cell phones and a new car every two years, motor boats and mini-vans,designer duds and big-screen TV's ??? I kinda doubt it. It is said it is much easier to commit to doing the right thing than it is to actually DO it. I couldn't agree more.
Our survival as citizens of this country, and on a larger scale, as members of a global comunity, are heavily dependent upon our ability to divorce ourselves from the fast track, from fast food and it's endless permutations, from immediate gratification manifesting itself as consumerism.
In order for America to return to Her greatest state, that condition wherein we are indeed as mighty and glorious as we have been flummoxed into believing we still are, we must all find the restraint, the will and discipline, the RESPECT for our surroundings and all Life contained in it. We need to develop an unfailing and rigid collective national conscience which tells us we do not need the newest next best thing being shoved at us to buy and trash our environment with once we're done using it. We do NOT need these products and goods whose very manufacture involves robbing our dear, precious Earth of elements needed for stable eco-balance.
I urge you, the individual reader, to spend some time in earnest really examining your daily life. What do you consume and do every day that you could live very well without ? Washing your car alot less often is a small step in the right direction, as example. Using water as if there is an infinite, endless supply is a huge error and NOT planet-friendly. Consider car-sharing. Share vehicle ownership with other family members or friends ( in the old days we did this because it was financially mandated, few people could afford to own a car by themselves.)Grow a garden; just the act of working in the good soil often awakens a sense of imperative in even the most vapid of consumers.
In conclusion, it is pointless to continue listing what all we can do without. Most of us already know that, we just lack the character and integrity to take action on it.Until that is corrected, until we can act as a unified whole nation, worrying about the definition of the word "patriotism" is a wasted exercise in futility. We're too damned selfish to be true patriots, because an inherent aspect of that definition includes putting the best interests of the many before the interests of the individual and America just doesn't have that gift too much anymore.
The list of The Seven Deadly Sins should include one more:
Consumerism.
It is the loaded gun being held to the temple of our world.
My definition of a patriot would be someone who drops Bush and Cheney into the Potomac with concrete weights ...... and then
puts Al Gore in charge. He's not perfect. Neither am I, but at least he's concerned about the environment.
BTW, why not outlaw those energy wasting dusk to dawn lights that shine into your bedroom. Motion sensor lights save soooo much energy. Do an online search for "light pollution".
AR, Calhan, CO
As people of this planet, we should try to protect this planet, as others have been attempting to do before us.
My definition of a Patriot:
Someone like Ralph Nader who tirelessly fights for the good of the consumer, environment and the everyday citizen.
Someone who cares about big corporations ruling our country and wants to put a stop to it.
To defend the principles of the constitution and goal of what democracy is - and the responibility that comes with citizenship. This means speaking out - peacefully - and taking full measure of the rights we have to keep the United States of the Americas a beacon for liberty, freedom and justice. We have flung far from these ideals within our current Presidential administration, with all the scandal and manipulation from corporation's greed and their impact in developing countries - which is now slowing creeping into our economy, destroying our middle class. Corporations do not represent the ideals of our country but I believe that individual citizens can join together to make a difference and use the rule of law to change the influence corporations have bullied in through lobbyists. Being a patriot extends far beyond the borders - it is our leadership, humanity, and vision for all people using fair and just system of law and governing - developing policies that impact the public good - wherever we are - and keeping balance between church and state with the highest of ethical and moral intention.
I suggest changing the wording of the first bullet so that reads, "Be mindful stewards of the Earth's resources ...." rather than using the word "consumers." We need to reduce what we consume.
Because I love my country, I want it to be a leader in reducing the human eco-footprint--not a saboteur to even further global action on global warming. Because I love my country, I can empathize with the love that my South African friends feel for theirs, and work to ensure that Americans' consumeristic excesses don't destroy their beautiful, irreplaceable landcapes, fauna, flora, and people.
I am Brazilian, but since your country has a huge influence over mine, I would like to share my thoughts (sorry for any English language mistake):
A patriot always ask explanations from his/her elected officials about their doings.
A Patriot does not support any product from countries where workers work under smaller salaries and working conditions than his/her own ones (e.g. China, Indonesia, Malaysia...). These countries also often do not respect any anti-pollution rule.
A Patriotic school teaches its students to be pro-active and always seek the truth about Human Rights, Environment, Government... And keep this way after adulthood.
Thank you for your attention. I would like to ask just one thing: PLEASE do NOT refer to your country as "America"! We, Brazilians, Mexicans, Argentinians etc are Americans, too! If you are the United States of America, this means you are a part of the continent, not that "America" is the country's name! Please call it U.S.A., North America, U.S., NorthAm... Please call yourselves "USAers", "North-Americans", "UNers"... But leave "America" and "Americans" for the continent! Please!
Once again, thank you for the attention.
So many fine comments. Perhaps patriotism is loyalty and care for one's country of origin or adoption, but I prefer to think of patriotism as care and loyalty to ones planet of origin. The Native Americans have said it for generations in their dealings with Mother Earth: All usage of resources by any individual in any generation must provide for those that follow -- Unto the seventh generation.
I'd like to see the Fourth of July (and other countries too could do this with their Independence Day or similar holiday) turned into a holiday that is celebrated with LOCAL, low-impact things. Kind of a "national block party day" or "relax on your porch watching fireflies night" instead of yet another day to clog the highways for a brief visit with loved ones. There are plenty of family holidays, but so many Americans these days feel distant from their neighbors. Why not take one holiday to celebrate the fact that we are in America, and celebrate the people and experience right there?
I have heard that the honeybees are dying because of the bt in GMO crops. Whether that is true or not, we should be very careful when we introduce changes to mother nature. All our changes tend to have unintended consequences. Climate change is only the most dangerous that we have recognized so far.
patriotism is about passion for our beliefs.
I suggest everyone run, not walk, to get a copy of George Monbiot's "Heat. How to Stop the Planet Burning." http//www.monbiot.com/archives/2006/11/07/heat/#more-1022
and Bill McKibben’s Deep Economy. The Wealth of Communities and a Durable Future
http://www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2007/03/reversal_of_fortune.html
and start organizing - we need a whole different kind of economy and we need to RELOCALIZE it fast!
A quick listen to our national anthem will give ample evidence that America is about much more than business savvy. Our soul is in the fields, and the mountains, and the shining seas.There is where our priorities should be.
All that i can tell is that patriotism is a feeling that be the person who makes the things better not only for oneself , it´s for the country, if i take care of myself, my home, my street, my distric...i´m doing good thins for my country and the rest of the world..if the bases of the society is the family , this is the base of the country and the world.
Take responsibility for our actions, our inactions and every consequence they may render; and ensure that others do so as well.
This is the United States, we are supposed to be a great nation, we should be leaders in Global Warming action. The whole United States Government should be concerned and really step up and be an example to the rest of the world in all areas of the global warming problem.
Stop supporting nuclear power. Its long-term dangers are far too great.
We should honor the US Constitution, whom many of us have sworn to preserve, protect and defend against all enemies, foreign and domestic. The Bush administration has clearly violated the constitution in many ways and have become treasonous enemies of all Americans. The war crime prosecutions against the Bush people and their supporters should begin. Secret service, police, service people and government employees should be fired as cowards for not doing their duties. I doubt if we have the wisdom or guts to execute these enemies. Perhaps another revolution is in order? The Bush supporters should be sent a dead Iracqi child that they helped to kill.
We must choose what is right, not what is easy. Humans have become too used to convenience and turn an ignorant eye to the fact that it is slowly destroying us, not helping. We must start thinking as one planet, not separate nations, as the decisions we make have a global impact. Earth is the only home for every single one of us, and we must ACT if we are to save home for our future.
Everyone of us have been experiencing the impacts of global warming and US citizens are no exception. While US has lead on every front, why is it hesitating when it invovles freinds all over the globe.
It will indeed be a great service to humanity.
Better late than never .....
I am not an American citizen, I am not a Canadian citizen, I am not a Nigerian citizen, I am not... If I was watching the earth from space, I would simply say that all the members of this I-am-not list are simply all like me: patriots. Patriots of humanity.
What I do for my neighbours on earth, what I do for the benefit of the living around me, thinking global, is also something I do for myself. Thinking global in the consequences of my own behaviour is in some way trying to make sure that in the future I will still be able to think and act for myself, that our children will also be able to do it and so on.
As one of the comments says: what is at stake here is the future of humanity, the planet will adapt with or without us anyway.
Here, from space, from where I am watching the earth, Humankind is said to be smart, but will it be enough to understand that it is part of a whole and that thinking and acting positively towards its environment is not only something that it can do for itself, but is also something simple to do and could easily become natural, just like breathing?
It is imperative that we, individually, no matter what status in humanity, connect as One, as a world whole. Our planet, all species' future depends on 'us'. One by one, we can make a difference. Whether big business, small business, or no business...we all must honor our planet by raising our heads out of the sand and take responsibility. If not us, than who???
If you believe in a creator or a god, then what's worse than destroying your creator's creation? If you don't believe in a creator or god, then what's worse than destroying the only home that we and all other life on earth have? Either way it's the ultimate tragedy. Life in some form will go on (bacteria, cockroaches?), but the planet as we know it today will be utterly changed unless we all pitch in and make the necessary sacrifices it will take to keep our world intact. Every human being owes their alligence to this rare jewel of an earth that enables us to have this precious thing called life.
Being a patriot means loving my country and being willing to defend it against enemies foreign or domestic. My country is not simply a political structure, it is the land, the water, the air, the people who make it up. To act against our land or water or air is to also act against the people. If I love my country, I will not act to destroy it, but to do everything in my power to preserve it for future generations.
When our own government acts against its own land, water and air, it is also acting against the people. This is very disturbing, as this government is meant to be the ultimate steward of our country.
Our nation needs to renew its leadership, to be a beacon to the world, showing the world how to behave. We need to lead the world in development of sustainable energy and in conservation of this beautiful land. We need to do this while also not raping the lands of other nations.
Our nation used to be the nation of innovators. We led the world in new technology. Now, we cling to old methods for fear that change will bring short-term cash-flow problems. We need to lose this short-sightedness and boldly move forward into new technology before we are left behind, and before it is too late to save the land as we know it.
We the people need to do our part. We need to make the changes in our lifestyle--using CFL bulbs, driving smaller vehicles, etc. We also need to act by writing letters to our representatives in state and federal government, as well as to any company we see acting against our country's best interest. Complacency will solve nothing.
Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
We can make changes. Success is our choice. Just like the handful of men who gathered together in a pub in Boston changed America as we know it, we can continue that change today. It is the patriotic thing to do.
The declaration is great, except
for one detail: Some would have
trouble with the boldface intro,
"Global warming is the crisis of
our time" because of another crisis
that could eclipse it--namely nuclear annihilation. I'd suggest a less debatable boldface introductory phrase:
"Global warming is a crisis for our Planet".
The politicians get so wrapped up in politics that they've forgotten politics doesn't save a planet from global warming. What good are all these bills the senate is working on if the planet is dead? We also need to work more on endangered species because humans are definitely not endangered and immigration is another political chess move that doesn't help the planet or endangered animals. The majority of politicians today can't see that global warming is the most important issue out there.
I hear BIO-DIESEL fuel is an alternative gas that is clear, unharmful to our environment and can be homemade. In stead of these high gas prices for petroleum gas, which is harmful to the environment, the nation should invest in clean fuel. THE UNITED STATES SHOULD BE MANUFACTURING ONLY BIO-DIESEL MOTORED AUTOMOBILES. Other countries have already started because they realize the seriousness of global warming.
The global warming movement is a scam to create worldwide regulations and raise billions on a carbon tax. This is a stepping stone towards a fascist world government. The fact is, most scientists are not in agreement over global warming and that it has more to do with sun activity at the source and natural earth cycles. Patriotism is allegience to government by the people and for the people of the United States--beware of "world" attached to anything that might affect your freedoms.
Patriot is that one who does not deceive his/her Earth, love and takes care of it.
Patriot is that one who rocks in his/her heart, with songs that learned from Mother Nature, the Earth that saw him/her be born.
Patriot is that one who always sees in his/her Earth, a great opportunity.
Patriot is that one who progresses and overcomes all the obstacles, in name of his/her Earth.
Patriot is that one who smiles of satisfaction, when listens to his/her brothers and sisters sing.
Patriot is that one who is proud, when listening others to flatter his/her Earth.
Patriot is that one who do not keep arms crossed when his/her Earth requests to seeds it, and protects the fruit of its furrows.
Patriot is that one who totally understands the meaning of the proverb that says: The Earth is not thirsty of the blood of the soldiers, but of the sweat of its men.
Congress should have greater oversight over the actions of the President, especially limiting his/her ability to start and maintain a war, and create the conditions conducive to war. The current president, Bush, started Bush's War on Iraq war based on faulty intelligence, flat-out lies, ignorance and stubborn arrogance. NO ONE should ever have to die for such an immoral, illegal and ill-conceived venture. The strength of this nation should be based upon actions that bring about a more peaceful, healthy and educated world.
I attended an Evolutionary Change conference at UCLA in February. Smaller species such as bacteria and some insects etc are more able to adapt to the drastic climate changes we're seeing than larger animals and species such as birds, trees, etc.
We have a moral responsibility to make this world a better place than when we came into it, and all of us acting now to reverse it is immensely important.
A Person who can lead the U.S. in the future and beyond. A person who can help lead the world to a State of Enviromental Harmony. A World that coexist with Nature and living together in harmony. Where the children and the future children are taught the benefits of Perserving our Incrediable Dvierisity and Uniquenecess for all the world to see. A world where all energy is helping to perseve the Earth and not destroying our natural resources. The end of poverty and people who can live in harmony with each other and nature. WHere the Oceans Creatures are no longer threatened. Teaching our children the way to live a life of Harmony and being one with our world. People who share the same interest. A world that we can enjoy and explore for everyone to see and amazing diverisity and beauty. Living like the my ancestors Native American Indians who live in complete harmony with the land, for all of the world to live this way.
No game can be played without some basic rules. We need to compile a book of basic ground rules for doing business here and around the glove. These rules should address such issues as: environmental issues, ethics, unionization, benefits and a formula for wages. All businesses would have to comply with these basic rules.
Thanks for considering this idea.
Concerned
Clearly, the environmental issues facing humanity transcend global warming. In many cases they are linked to social justice issues. Living sustainably so others can merely live is a moral imperative that must be fueled by grass roots movements to be fully effective. If we are successful in our efforts to keep the health of our planet and the lives of all beings who inhabit it our primary focus, imagine what we can do to create a peaceful and just world society.
The Constitution of the United States of America
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union,
"To protect, preserve,and maintain warts The "circle of life" on earth. With all it's biological diversity of species intact."
establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Those whom have assumed power and control of this nation, and several world corporations, often boast of having the best interest and idea to be on top. I say prove it, use the knowledge to solve today's issues, release patent holds (and bans on hemp, which could greatly end many of our current problems) on technologies that can vastly shape our future to a sustainable path. After all, it is the human race, and the planets' wonderful creations that will become extinct. And if not, then those with all the money will still starve, for their money won't give them food if we have disrespected this abundance that we see slipping away. Ultimately, it is the hands of mankind that is currently shaping the world and the money is just a sly excuse for not doing the absolutely best course of action.
CALL IT: GLOBAL THERMAL DEVISTATION. "Global Warming" sounds like a tropical vacation. THe proponents of devistation use language much more effectively. Example: Change "Inheritance Tax" to "Death Tax" and the constituancy fell in line against their own best interestes.
We need support FOR our own best interests.
Michael Rifkind
The problem is that when it comes to global warming, many people, including our current administration and many businesses really just don't care. What we need is drastic measures now. Our government needs to enact laws that says that all individuals including businesses will recycle or pay a fine. Only green automobiles, appliances, light bulbs, etc. should be manufactured from this point on. We don't have time to waste on this issue.
I've found it exceedingly easy to offend hypocrites, and thus shake them from their stoic perches.
It just takes a little bit of truth to power, and the courage to be unpopular.
Government:
When a government, continues to perpetually lie, & fabricate it's own dillusional ideaology, persistently denying their own misguided follies, in a "war" distinctly reminiscent of Vietnam, due to their own ego-testical paranoia, we go from Democracy, to Fascism, in the blink of an eye.
Somehow, this administration conveniently forgets, that the Constitution of these United States, begins with, "We The People," not "Me, Myself, & I."
Education:
It is the responsibility of the School District, Teachers, Administration & Community, to ensure that every student receives a proper education without stress, bullying, harrassment, discrimination, bias, hate, & judgment, of any kind, whatsoever!
There are still people in our own nieghborhoods who do not see global warimng as a threat to them. They say well i will be dead by the time it truly affects me so why should i bother to do anything. We have to concvince these people that even though this may not directly affect them it will affect thier posterity and they are the ones who need to change so thier future generations will have a place to live.
Global warming is the most pressing environmental issue of our time, and we have a relatively short window of opportunity to begin to resolve the problem. Americans need to buy more fuel efficient cars, buy energy efficient appliances, drive less, and purchase power from renewable energy sources whenever possible, such as wind energy. We all need to write and call our political leaders and tell them our government must begin to develop laws to reduce carbon dioxide - 80% by 2050! Without the government stepping in,we won't be able to address the problem in a manner to affect us globally. We need to develop more alternative fuels, like ethonal from corn waste, raise car fuel efficiency standards to at least 35 miles per gallon,and produce more hybrids with government cash back incentives for purchasing them. We need to rely less on coal and more on renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal. We need to use a combination of these methods, as one is not sufficient enough to decrease our reliance on oil and coal. We also need a carbon exchange program, such as is utilized in Europe. America has to join the next "Kyoto" with Europe and must then urge China and other developing nations to join. Without the USA, these nations will never join. All Americans need to be made aware that our future is at stake if we take a 'business as usual" approach. Heat waves,droughts, violent storms,floods, fires, rising oceans , depletion of coastal areas, disease,and species extinction are some of the horrific occurances we have to look forward to if nothing is done about this problem. The scientists have already confirmed the reality of global warming. The debate is over! Now is the time for serious action before it is too late!
Although I prefer the idea of global patriotism / citizenship, for those of a more traditional mindset, can patriotism be redefined from a long-term perspective? Having a country about which one can be patriotic requires sustainability, in all its various forms -- which would dramatically reshape our political and legislative perspectives and approaches.
I think thre should be bullet about how all car companys have to be making only earth friendly cars by 2020.
its shocking and sad how we are harming our home. we live in a planet of beutiful things all around and we're destroying all of that. how can we do this to our plannet when we are all aware of what we do. we all know we need to recycle, we all know we need to use electric cars, we all know we need to take care of the water. That is the problem we know, but we ignore all of it. We ignore the harm and the damage we are inflicting towards our plannet, our home. How can all of this be happening? People wont realize none of that until when? until its too late. that is when they will ask the most stupid question, what can we do to fix it? well it will be to late to fix anything anymore. right now we are still in time, we can change, correct our actions and help protect our home. We need to stand together as brothers, sisters, and put a stop to all of this harm we are causing. we know it wrong, we know whats happening, but yet we are doing nothing, nothing to help correct the problem. remember we only have one home and if you care about it help solve the problem. Lets all become one and fight this together and help protect our plannet, our home, for future generations.
A Patriot is someone who stands up for what is important to him or her. The environment is absolutely important to every living being on this planet...so doesn't it make sense that one could only call him or her self a patriot by standing up for his or her environment? If someone truly loves their nation, if someone truly loves their world, then they must fight--FIGHT!--for what their nation or world is dependent on--its environment.
We all must make conscious decisions--political, social, economic, moral--regarding that which we rely on.
For high school and college students interested in making a conscious decision and leading a club or organization at your school, go to www.projectcooldown.org.
We need to dump the idea that this US goverment and others alike will do ALL in its power to reduce Global Warming as it should be reduced. They will particapate somewhere in between and will not be afective fast enough or ever due to profits. So it is up to the people all over the world to take afirmative action and do whats right. I think the key word is BOYCOT all items that our enemies try to sell to us. If not able to boycot 100 percent per paticular item then the next best thing is to reduce as much as possable or use alternative ways to avoid there products. We need to get a organizer to come up with a site to inform us people whom are concerned and trying to make a difference to identifie those who are doing wrong and the products that they pedel as well as any associates of theres including goverments and parliments etc,.BOYCOT and PARTICIPATE in all ways as much as possable in order to reduce Global Warming.
We, the people of the United States of America, have the right to breathe CLEAN and HEALTHY air, both indoors and out, both in public and in private.
We, the people of the United States of America, have the right to travel America's highways and roads WITHOUT the choking effects of DIESEL EMISSIONS and GAS EMISSIONS.
We, the people of the United States of America, have the right to have an aboundance, of CLEAN and HEALTHY water to drink WITHOUT the danger of pollutants.
To be a patriot means not to view the rest of the world in terms of what it can offer us, but what can our country offer the rest of the world. On important issues like global warming and environmental stewardship, we need to be a leader not a follower. We are most patriotic when we rise up as shining examples for the rest of the world to follow. It's time for us to step and try to save our planet, in the hopes that rest of the world will take note and follow suit. First America, then the world! Save Mother Earth!
Get auto manufacturers to stop making so many big vehicles.
Charge people more in licensing fees and taxes if they drive a big, inefficient vehicle.
Require all states to offer ethanol and other fuel alternatives.
Require auto makers to make more hybrid vehicles.
Make recycling a requirement for ALL cities and businesses.
Protect all species of animals that are on the endangered list.
Require emissions testing on all vehicles in all states.
Stop junk mail and it will stop the waste of a lot of paper.
Promote more organic and natural foods and products.
Require cities to have decent drinking water for it's citizens.
Make health insurance companies pay for preventative health measures for people.
Only allow political campaigning 90 days before an election so less money is spent on campaigns - the money can be put to good use elsewhere.
I am 25, and just in my lifetime, I have seen the advent of the home computer. The most amazing thing of the state of the world, is that we HAVE the ability to be coexistent with earth. We HAVE HAD it for some time. I can recall dozens and dozens of articles on clean electric generation: some using the oceans natural tumbling, some using the high up jet-stream, windmills have made leaps and bounds in their efficiency, yet here we are. Still polluting, maybe even worse then during the industrial revolution. I think of things like the tragedy of GM's electric car 'genocide'. We talk about using alternate fuels like ethanol, which if you ask me, with today's technology, is a mere sidestep to what we are truly capable of. Recall the recent call to use the fluorescent light rather than incandescent. A great cause, but one major overlooked detail: many of them contain mercury. Imagine if the government put only a fifth of the military budget toward new, clean technology studies and invention. This opposed to the sad use of scientists' genius by the mostly exploitative corporate agendas. Imagine if they could research and design things that had only one intention, the betterment of the people and the planet. This young man knows the truth, as I see many in the world, also do. WE THE PEOPLE, need to be spreading the word, not exploiting other nations. I never understood the hatred toward America when I was young, now it is all too clear. How can you care for a nation that's people continually allows its government and corporations to exploit most everything in the name of profit.... A true travesty. I have no ideas to offer. Not because I don't have any, but because the ideas have been there for some time. Its not time for talk, its time for action!
While some people might think that the climate crisis is not in our hands, we are the only ones that can stop this downward spiral of global decay. We, the people, not of the United States,but of the earth. We are responsible for what is happening and we can stop it. Like the Declaration of Independence, it cannot be effective though unless it is unanimous. It is our duty to not hesitate, for every second counts. It is our duty not to hesitate; for us, our neighbors, and the future generations of the planet.
I find the focus on global warming to be a bit shallow and trendy. Warming is just one piece of a larger collection of issues, including overpopulation, pollution, overuse of water, extinction of species, social/political issues, and the goal of living in a way that is deeply satisfying in a spiritual sense.
I find the concept of "sustainability", of humans living in a way that will allow the planet to support both us and over species over the foreseeable future to be a richer and more inclusive idea.
http://washingtontimes.com/world/20070306-122226-6282r.htm
I believe that global warming is an issue that affects not only our generation, but also the generations to come. It will affect your grandchildren and their children immensely. This is not a process affecting only one corner of the world, but the world at large. All of us are in this together, and it will in turn affect each and every single individual on this planet. We have worked together to put ourselves in this position. The excess use of petroleum and electricity has made global warming sky rocket. If we can work together so easily to destroy our planet and our means of living, please let's just work together for the good of it. I know in my heart we can.
My child, a part of me, needs to be able to live in this world long after I'm gone, what right does anyone have to take his right to life away--use your intelligence.
How can we as a nation ignore the warnings about global warning. Is it too much to ask to inconvenience ourselves for the greater good? It is my hope that our leaders will make the right decision and make the necessary changes desirable to those who are dragging their feet.
There are four areas to which people may want to give some allegiance: local area, region, nation, and planet. That last one just hasn't been receiving enough. It is the most basic, as the others mean nothing without it. They are all on earth, and the earth is our home. We should fly the earth flag and take pride in it, as well as taking better care of it.
By the way, the other that needs some upgrading in people's attention and affection is their region. It's important, because many environmental initiatives and solutions can take place on a regional basis.
We owe it to the planet to live "green," even if global warming is not the issue of our time, and we are not destroying the earth at the rate most think we are.Doing things that are environmentally friendly The earth does so much for us, as do all the forms of life that share this planet with us, and they both deserve our respect and love!
Patriotism is speaking out for those that have no voice...flora and fauna...the entire planet! It is about doing the harder "right" over the easier "wrong". It is about having a vision of life greater than your own that encompasses all creatures with which we SHARE this earth! It is about passion...and putting that passion into action that makes a difference, on any scale...from the tiniest bug to the entire biosphere. That is true patriotism.
We the People stand together as governors of this land, as declared in the Constitution of these United States. We elect representatives to voice our concerns, to protect our interests and to guarantee our safety. It must be formally declared by these representatives that We the People are charged with the stewardship and protection of all living systems within these United States and, to the extent that our activity affects it, of all life on earth. According to the best science our nation has to offer, global warming threatens living systems we depend upon, and without which we cannot survive. Food, clean air and clean water are dependent upon the interactions of millions of living things. The extinction rate, already higher than at any point in the life history of earth, stands to accelerate because of global warming. With respect to global warming, the People must logically declare that, if humans are to err, let it be on the side of caution. To fail to act on this issue would be foolish beyond comprehension. As surely as we cannot breathe nor continue to survive without the aid of oceanic plankton, we do not know how warming seas will affect said plankton, nor do we know how planetary warming will affect any other among millions of living systems we depend on to ultimately provide food, water, raw materials and energy. Land area will be lost to the sea. Species will migrate ever northward, often wreaking havoc within local ecosystems. Providing fresh water to people will become a crisis that could envelope the globe. If the People's representatives will not act now to protect our interests, our lands and our lives from the destructive potential of global warming, the People must vote them out, elect new representatives and create new parties that truly act in the best interests of the People. Clearly, the current parties in power and our sources of news and information are too often swayed by rich and powerful interests that would lose only profit should we agree on a global-warming initiative. We declare that we will not trade our lives, our childrens lives, our well being, our lands or our waters for the profits of the few. The Constitution of the United States empowers its People, not its corporations. The Constitution is the first article of governance in world history to deliver governance entirely into the hands of the People. If its representatives will not do the will of the People, the People must remove them from office, and remove the source of power offered to special interests through lobbying. We the People declare we will do everything within our power to reverse global warming trends, as we perceive this to be in our own best interests, and in the best interests of life on earth.
I hate to be a killjoy, but I have a lot of problems with this statement. I don't like using the word "patriotism" which has its roots in the latin "pater" for father to refer to earth. Earth is nature and mother and nurturing.
Also, the "qualities and values that have guided our nation" have not always been the best of human nature. I think our country's continuing struggle to redefine what is right and to do what is fair is our legacy. This is another one of those struggles, and we need the collective will to force our leadership to do what is right.
The responsible stewardship of our environment is not a new notion. But it has come face to face with rampant corporate greed and lazy media. We need to acknowledge exactly what the roadblocks are and not shy away from that confrontation.
We owe our children more than our best effort. We owe them the beauty and mystery that is inherent in this magnificent planet. No less.
As for what we will pledge to do, I think you're asking very little of your audience. "Be mindful," "Be active," "Spread the word." These are weak verbs in my opinion. Refuse to purchase... Advocate for alternative energy... Vote for those who will pass legislation... Commit to living... Better verbs, stronger language. A bolder statement -- that would by my recommendation.
By protecting every square centimeter of American earth we protect the planet. Patriotism means protecting our legacy of land, sky, and water. If we do not protect our land, we are not patriots.
This is it? Three bullet points after all the fantastic comments people have made? Could we be a little less wishy-washy?
Potential wording changes:
"This and every generation's most fundamental obligation is the stewardship of posterity's circumstance, the bedrock of which is the health of the planet."
to replace:
"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 replace the current bullets:
"1) purchase products and services for personal and business use that minimize global warming, 2)encourage elected officials and candidates to act urgently and meaningfully by creating legislative incentives and disincentives for environmental responsibility, 3) educate and encourage others to act likewise."
I think the wording should focus on the positive (for example, "citizens of the planet, not just one nation" may sound negative or pushy), especially to prevent alienating those (of which there are many!) who believe strongly in the concept of patriotism as a national phenomenon. I would tend to try to sway those people with words and feelings to which they can relate.
I love our beautiful planet. We must unite in spirit and love with a firm resolve to heal Mother Earth. We have been given so much and now it is time to show our caring. Governments must get the almighty dollar out of the equation and realize that it will be of no importance if global warming is allowed to run its course. The alternate choice to turning it around is chaos and worse. Each one must do his/her part.
PATRIOT is defined through COURAGE
and COURAGE has defined history!!
Therefore, as of July 4, 2007, we
the people of the United States refuse to go to work until the United States Government has presented a serious plan of action
to solving this crisis committing to honor scientific research and full cooperation with all nations in effect immediately!!!!!
I believe overpopulation is the greatest threat to our survival on this planet. It is behind every environmental problem that we have and things are only going to get worse. As intelligent beings we need to get past the personal and emotional baggage and think about what is best for the whole world.
When you ask "WE THE PEOPLE" to curtail the consumption of petroleum products without closing down the very source perpetrating this insidious prostitution, it's an insane practice in futility.
Now. Do you think our appointed or otherwise "elected" political officials would have us take down the oil barons and everybody attached economically to big oil? Knowing that their children's college education and the very fiber of the world economy is so critically dependent on it?
BTW, environmental pollution is only a bi-product of corporate/political greed.
Please don't ask me to "Do my part" when our legislators are taking kickbacks and sitting on their hands in their bureaucratic offices and draging their feet.
Corporations and politicians are are not doing all they can to provide solutions to environmental pollutions, the greenhouse effect and the depletion of our -O-sone etc.. They haven't been doing their part all these years. We've been preaching to each other like barking dogs with no teeth.
"WE THE PEOPLE" have been ignored. We're also being blamed for global warming and the effects of industrial pollution.
"WE THE PEOPLE" need leadership with backbone willing to impose restrictions on bogus laws designed to favor corporations and defend flabby minded, spineless jelly fish politicians embedded in the cancerous bureaucratic fiber of our nation.
it is easy, people just need to stop being so LAZY and take responseblity, to help keep this world clean !!!
As patriots for the environment wether it be nationally or globally, we should push for more recycling programs that will offer benefits to city schools and be easier to follow for our communities. This will help lower the need to mine for more resources and also lower the land used to create new landfills.
The recycling plants on the Gulf coast that were destroyed in hurricanes Katrina and Rita need to be rebuilt. There is a huge amount of wasted material that should be recycled but there is nowhere to bring your recyclables.
"...have guided our nation for more than 200 (Replace with "230") years."
"Future generations...failure to be good (Replace: with "worthy") stewards of the Earth. We owe our children, and our children's children, nothing less than our very best." (Add: If we fall short, they may, indeed, not survive our inadequacy.")
"We the undersigned..."
(Add: Continually add to our knowledge about how we can act in our personal lives to better preserve the Earth;")
"Be mindful" (Replace with "responsible") "consumers, by " (Replace remaining phrase with: "conserving energy in our homes, workspaces, and cars, reducing our contribution to CO2 emissions through our purchases, and making recycling a way of life."
"Spread the word, by educating...neighbors (Add: ", colleagues,") and loved ones..." (Eliminate: "and" replace with ",") "making sure...us has a (add "crucial") role to play..."
Recycling only works if we buy recycled products and develop new markets for recycled goods. Economy of scale has a definate effect on lowering the prices for recycled goods. Let's buy recycled and encourage the marketplace to recycle, rather than just produce more "new goods".
I think your national declaration on global warming should be loaded with specific ideas to reduce it.
Here's an idea to encourage millions of homeowners to install lots of solar photovoltaic panels, maybe even more than their own homes require, to cleanup and decentralize the generation of electricity, thereby reducing our production of global warming gases: Require electric utilities nationwide to pay homeowners for any excess energy their solar panels put back into the power grid.
Draft the SUV drivers.
I agree with Jay, that patriotism is not global. But patriotism means disagreeing with the government when it is wrong, and standing up for what is right. We certainly have a global responsibility to preserve the planet for future generations.
To devote energy of our own personal selves to help make this planet safe, beautiful and full of natural life. We need to for our children and for ourselves.
I believe that humanity has misunderstood global warming. Carbon dioxide emission rate has now tripled since the 1990's. I believe that there are other causes to global warming; such as fine particles causing more clouds, and airplane jet exhaust that may also destroy ozone at high altitude.
While going after the larger contributors to global warming, such as big business is important; we should all take a look at our own contributions. Don't be the pot that called the kettle black. If you really want to have an impact spread the word and adopt sustainable practices as an individual. Be humble, only take what you need, not what you want. we are such a wasteful society. Nature runs on a system of checks and balances. If we do not solve the problem ourselves mother nature will. What is the problem? None other than mankind. What is the best way to solve a problem? Remove it.
In the creation of our Constitution, we established a Bill of Rights to be used as key guidelines. In establishing this Declaration of New Patriotism, there should also be established a specific set of key bylaws called Americans Responsibilities to Heal the Earth. These will be the critical guidelines we would all make a solemn oath to live by.
We, the People, need to conserve our natural resources. We are accustomed to using what we think we need and have no reservations about the impact on the environment. Wind energy is one answer to energy use without pollution and biofuels can give us more freedom from the Saudis stronghold.
get folks to focus on the big sources of carbon emissions, that can be reduced (changing lifestyle of SUVs, McMansions, super long single person commutes...) and don't confuse folks with suggestions that have only small savings (like ones in the Post to not use paper shreders)
gjcqfAn economic system that is based on sustainability will help to move the citizens of the United States to a new society. This means small local food networks, locally based industries using locally based resources and locally based energy systems (digesters, solar and wind) but also includes renumeration for volunteer services to family, and community. Yeah, it's radical---but aren't we do for a change??
Only your individual actions, combined with all others, can protect Mother Nature.
Delray Davey Dude
Our planet is not in trouble just because of big business or politics. We as individuals create more waste than our planet was ever designed for. We drive the big cars. We heat and cool the big homes. We buy throw away dishes. We demand the rareest of woods for our frivolous use.
I take responsibility. I try to be conscious of what i am using up.
This must be a one on one choice. No political movement, no government will correct this. Only we, as inhabitants of this planet can save it.
I am not crazy about 'big oil' or 'lobby favorites' either. But the only reason products that hurt our planet are there is because we each use them.
That has to change. And it takes no effort to do that. The safer, kinder options for our planet are there, have always been there.
Just say 'I will not waste, pollute, or destroy' every day.
Thank you for allowing me to speak
The US government is the best educated in the world and the most greedy. Since no real problems are being solved why cannot the government start by going back to common sense and at least protect the middle class that feeds their egos by taxing the oil kingdom for the pollution and illness caused by same. The oil profits could put billions towards medicare and help pay for the collapsing health care system caused by the fossil fuel pollution of the planet? That in turn would start to rescue the economy from the eminent collapse!
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