Forgive Us Our Eco-Sins

Realism versus idealism

Eco-friendly is one thing, zero carbon footprint is another. It seems to me awareness at this point is more important than screaming mia culpa's from the rooftops every time you use a gallon of hot water more than absolutely necessary. Awareness facilitates reduction, which is the whole point of eco-friendly.

The fact is, no human alive can have a zero carbon footprint in any society modern or primitive. We have to eat, and what we eat produces carbon (and other green house gasses) far in excess of our own. Cooking releases carbon. BREATHING releases carbon. It's not only impractical to have a zero carbon footprint, it's literally impossible.

But reducing what carbon we do use will have an impact if we all do it. In order to do it, we must be aware that we need to. Conspicuous excess is going to continue, but I expect as awareness of eco-friendly alternatives (and affordability of eco-friendly technology) goes up, it will be conspicuous consumption that will become the scarlet letter item rather than the occasional and utterly human slip of the eco-friendly-aware mind. Awareness should lead to a desire to be increasingly eco-friendly, especially as more and more of us become aware and are willing to do our part.

Maura (and others like her) shouldn't beat herself up over these minor lapses, rather she should be glad she IS aware of them at all. Most people aren't, or couldn't care less, or can afford not to care. Awareness is the first step. Save the guilty feelings until everyone shares an equal awareness and desire to help the planet.

Fatesrider of CA @ Jun 25, 2008 19:21:50 PM