HOW TO SAVE THE PLANET-THE WAY OF GAIA: THE ECOLOGICAL BLUEPRINTS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR WORLD:

Copyright:

The author Jack Dyer hereby asserts and gives notice of his right under section 77 of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988, to be identified as the author of the foregoing book

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Table of Contents

HOW TO SAVE THE PLANET-THE WAY OF GAIA: THE ECOLOGICAL BLUEPRINTS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR WORLD:........................................................................1

Exegesis:............................................................................................................3Chapter I: The Dangers of Globalisation and Materialism:................................18CHAPTER 2: Secularism: Initiating our Extinction:............................................37Chapter 3: Countering the Warfare Mentality:..................................................46Chapter 4: An Ecological History......................................................................60Chapter 5: The Great Environmentalism Debate: Challenges; Arguments and Refuting Counter Arguments:...........................................................................71Chapter 5: THE PERVERSION OF SCIENCE........................................................92Chapter 6: The Dune Approach:.....................................................................103Chapter 7: Africa:...........................................................................................125Chapter 8: Europa..........................................................................................142Chapter 9: North America...............................................................................145Chapter 10: South America............................................................................148Chapter 11: Oceania.......................................................................................150Chapter 12: The Arctic and Antarctica............................................................152Chapter 13: Motivation: -Environmentalist Psychology..................................154Chapter 14: Environmental Economics:..........................................................172Chapter 15: The Charter and Preamble of Fauna/ Flora Emancipation:..........196

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Chapter 16: Proposed Legislation:..................................................................211Chapter 17: Ecotourism –Lowering The Human Impact..................................223Chapter 18: How to Reform!...........................................................................229Chapter 19: The Way of Gaia:........................................................................238Chapter 20: Progressing Forward!..................................................................252Chapter 21: Common Sense and Small Steps:...............................................266CONCLUDIUM:................................................................................................277REFERENCES:.................................................................................................291

Exegesis:

How did the state of the planet ever degenerate to this? How do the problems which plague our species threaten the aeons of life itself and the ecosystem stability of our planet; that miraculously has weathered all attempts by the Universe we live in; to blitz it

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out astronomically? Whoever; would have thought; that a single organism –a single species; would have been so ungrateful; callous and ignorant; to cause such devastation of their planet’s surface, core and atmosphere. They act to plunder without sustainability or restraint, despite their uncertainty of any other substitutes existing in the rest of the unchartered Universe? Now that it has –and we know how to identify the pestilences that we have wrought on Gaia, we have diagnosed the causes and found who is responsible –So, what are we as self-appointed masters of the Universe; preparing to do about it? What in essence; is to be done?

Why? And, How?

Above all; our survival is conditional in our wretched race finally learning a smidgeon of gratitude. We are supposed to follow our responsibility as custodians on behalf of all species on this planet, regardless of whether or not we deserve that mantle of privilege; honour and responsibility. The mantle of authority that we have appointed ourselves to has been to the detriment of all life forms –including our own. It advocates that we as individuals and as members of the collective human species responsible for such environmental catastrophes; mature enough to identify the problem. But we need to save the planet. But not just to talk about it –but actually do something about it –for the survival of all. There are many reasons why. To the elementals; to Gaia; for the miraculous conditions which continue to make life possible –despite aeons of devastation wrought by a capricious humanity. This treatise is devoted to all life-forms and the planet as a paen in homage of the bounties; miracles; wonders and blessings they manage to continue to provide –despite a capricious humanity. This treatise exists to provide a means of gratitude towards the environment and those Elemental Forces and to defend its cause; in order to assist the health; welfare and prosperity towards all species

So; what is the purpose of this elemental treatise?

A means of cohesion –of planetary synergy interlinking Gaia; the Olympians; intellectual Parnassus of Sanctaphrax with the African Renaissance; the Astronautical Odyssey; the new Enlightenment; Stoicism of Marcus Aurelius; pantheism; Syncretism and planetary ecology. These provide part of the overall objective envisioned to save humanity from the detritus of its own folly; its refusal to learn from the past; to ignore and suppress the will for action and need to reform. Many face isolation from the lessons of our environment –and how we might learn to live with other species and the world of life. Many ignore the myriad other determinants that have left our species floundering and our planet reeling from its disastrous regime of mismanagement. Whether we heed these reforms and others; whether or not we elect to choose others; it is pivotal that we do not tolerate this Age of Strife and the problems that our globalised era and past; future circumstances have

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arisen to? It is imperative that we do not deny the problem anymore. This is essential! This crisis is only reaching its epic turning point. There never before in the history of this planet; a philosophy; a religion; a New Age; empire; State or government exclusively and first devoted to this planet. This is one concentrating on prioritising other species not just ourselves; of prioritising our planet and environment of more mundane issues. Is there not time; the opportunity; resources; technology; the popular support –awareness and education to do so. This is especially given the urgency with which our planet projects its need for change? And yet; can there be anything more glaringly important than the environment; without which; we would not be alive; here at this moment, able to exist. Without out it we would be unable to achieve anything –or even nothing. Failure to act will initiate further chaos… given the magnitude of the epic catastrophes to avert.

This treatise attempts to reverse this. It realises that nothing more than a revolution is necessary to achieve an Ecological Age –rather than An Age of Globalisation; Secularism; Technology; Materialism; Corporate Capitalism and Uncertainty/ Strife –the Warfare Mentality This treatise aims towards averting global climate change; forestall climate change; to fabricate a generation of ardent conservationists; to purify our polluted environment and implement environmental reforms. These must avert the impending catastrophe that will befall us and to make this planet a fit place for humans... –but also for other species. It aims to consider the past and present; to generate a future that we would want to live in. It will propose reforms and efforts that new eco conscious individuals; societies; communities; academics; individuals; legislators and government could do to achieve this. The highest function of government will be to conserve the environment and promote ecological literacy. The nebulous entity “the free market” will generate a system that efficiently allocates; categorizes and prices resources –on the basis of finite natural resources and the demands of the consumer for produce that has minimal effects on the environment (There is enough for human need not human greed. With this in mind it will conceptualise how we as humanity can establish an economy; lifestyle and legal system based on the planet first - Necessities required by our species) are not incompatible with the requirements of the planet. This is provided we start to recognise overpopulation as the accelerator of humanity’s most pressing problems environmental, economic, social, poverty and climate change. Its provided we reduce the human population to an optimal level. It recognises lessons and ideas from all continents that can be considered ecological successes that we would do well to support as global environmental initiatives

Few treatises consider the short, long and medium terms; policies and how to implement them. Few give thought to expressing a clear vision; we need to follow; if we are to alter this. It is up to our generation to enquire: What do we wish? It is up to us –to decide how to define a new reality! It is up to us –the new generation to devise a means to cohabit the 4

world; which our forebears succeeded in destabilizing. That is if we can recant materialism and turn to the planet... Besides; isn’t enough known about the Terrestrial epidemic to actually do something about it? Isn’t the glaring reality horrendous enough at the moment –let alone the future; to prompt us to act? That is; if realise that our actions have consequences –We can either live with them and face the problem –soon; in this last age that we have to act; –or perish...

Where does this treatise differ from others? Other books focus more on targeting specific segments of the population –especially the consumer and member of the public or scientific community; rather than solutions that can be endorsed by governments; businesses; utility companies; individuals etc. Other books are popularist based or academic polemics seeking self –justified publications. Many are detached from reality or seek publicity! Most concentrate on just one aspect –the History; solutions; the debate; environmental philosophy etc. Ours integrates all these aspects and more. Too many treat Planetology with little sympathy or understanding. Few even seem to appreciate and emphasize its necessity; as this treatise attempts to do. Most off general solutions or ideas –without considering the simple fact that our planet is made up of several continents –and at least 193 countries (including South Sudan 2012). Each has different initiatives and issues to consider in attempting to resolve climate change and ecological catastrophes in all regions of the globe. Most environmental books fail to consider how to convince the developing world –the poor and the minorities throughout. They are less inclined to seek the relevance of this need to reform –even though they have the most to lose from it. Most only publicise why and how we should reform. They do not seek to resolve all the common arguments hurled against the environmentalist cause.

This treatise maybe one of so many that illuminates and concentrates on this. It clarifies what is to be done and why it is necessary. But it recognises that any reform must also be realistic. We have to focus on how any environmental problem can be resolves; given the realities of this planet and of humanity –particularly the psychology of people. Many may use arguments to promote the environmental cause and to refute our climate sceptics and other opponents; who continue to confound and muddle the issue. This treatise moves beyond that. Few really use the examples of the benefits of conservation, not just for other species and Gaia but for humanity in addition as this treatise elaborates upon. We may be among the first to propose endorsing an environmentalist philosophy –The Way of Gaia –which many humans would benefit from. This incorporates eco-literacy, climate change activism and environmentalism as a universally applicable factor to unite all species with each other and within species. This is virtually unique… a religious; spiritual; emotional and psychological connection that transcends all religions and boundaries; in which we would all be better off. Ours also goes merely beyond proposed legislation and other reforms but also argues against specism –our discrimination towards other species; 5

identifying their needs –and that of the planet. It proposes greater rights to non-humans –and even enfranchising them in a specific Fundamental Charter of Species Rights

Many may concentrate on environmental ethics; ecological history; specific countries and case studies; solutions; philosophy; environmental laws etc. This treatise attempts to address all this and more. But it aims to warn us of ignoring the consequences of our own actions. While it refers to reforms –in many areas; all continents generally and specifically –for businesses; governments; communities and individuals, it recognises that globalisation isn’t currently taking this seriously. It realises; that it is important to mobilise the masses –us all; not just the fringe sect of intelligentsia and the wealthy/influential elite... They also fail to interlink this how and why; with the underlying psychology of so many… This treatise is pragmatic enough to envision how to motivate people including individuals; governments, communities, businesses and other major stakeholders in this planet; to change and endorse this environmental cause rather than to persecute those who do so.

To any who ask: What can we do? What is to be done? What shall be done? This treatise seeks to rejoin: If you put your mind to it; you can accomplish anything… –despite humanity... One person single handedly; one group; company; organisation or government could transform this planet and process of globalisation into one worth emulating. It does not have to be the one of extortion; mutilation; rape and plunder that it; like virtually all others; has been for the past few thousand years. Surely; we are capable of formulating ideas? Surely, we are capable of reading; digesting and acting upon those convictions and words? And yet; what is it that inhibits us from failing to take the steps forward? Is it because we do not know how to progress forward? Is it because we do not know why to progress forward? Or is it any one of a number of reasons… because we are afraid to take the first step. Is i because others do not appear to be doing the same? But others presumably feel the same way –and therefore we are not alone. If we take the initiative –others will follow! It is up to us to conclusively demonstrate that we value this life and this planet, with or without others. Its up to us to pledge a commitment –rather than the contempt; fear or other barriers that inhibit us from turning the Age of Globalisation into the Ecological Age.

No entity is pointless; superfluous or valueless… especially when it comes from the natural world There is a role and a purpose to every organism; every plant; every animate; sentient flora; fauna; fungi and strata. Our prime mistake has been to deny our inhabitants of this planet; a voice or a say; the souls and enfranchisement of other species; to remember that we are but one of multiple species... Each of which; deserves the right to life and our respect. Every living creature has a destiny ordained by the Fates and Gaia. It is therefore clearly hubris to intervene except for our own sustenance and survival, in the

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affairs and lives of other species. They do not exist to serve us but in symbiosis, as all part of one intricate artifice for their own and the ecosystem’s purpose. We have no right to arrogantly enslave them or deprive them of the right to existence –except out of necessity… Under no circumstances can any human mortal justify causing the collapse of the ecosystem; global warming and its climatic Convulsions; the extinction of any species. Nor can we extemporise and validate the contamination of the effluent and maximisation of the human impact and population beyond the evident carrying and absorption capacity of Earth. This treatise defies that heretical approach as the ultimate blasphemy and desecration against Gaia and the forces of life. This treatise aims to provide that emancipation of species, other than our own; is the ultimate culmination of all the various groups and souls liberated. After all; apart from liberating non-human animals; what other struggle is there; for anyone who seeks to free a segment from their rights being suffocated?

How to cope with ennui that so many face in this increasingly globalised and dispiriting Age? With the expense of time that Chronus and the Moriae have devoted to exceeding our terrestrial limits; to subvene our mortal restrictions with our intellectual; emotional and spiritual boundaries... why not concentrate on the ultimate challenge attesting our honour; moral probity and right to life. The most noble cause is that of saving our planet’s ecology from the mistakes that we humans have lacerated this planet with? If we seek ecological literacy and an elemental synthesis with the world around us; rather than insulating ourselves from it; as globalisation advocates; we gain solace in the world around us. We can strive towards future beginnings and the infinite possibilities they bring. Yet; with a whole world to charter and revitalise –how could we possibly suffer from boredom? These are issues of real life that affect us all There can be no nobler or justifiable cause, nor any more urgent and pressing… Does it not make sense to focus on the survival of the planet first before moving onto other problems of our world? Without our world… our problems will all be solved. It’s too bad that apart from those deep underground or orbiting the planet will be the only ones around to witness and experience it….

No one will be exempt or immune from the repercussions. Nature is the equaliser. No exceptions will be made for those who conserve and for those that squander. Nature will not discriminate on the basis of social status; wealth; demographics; geography or power The demise of our planet; will have profound implications for us all. However; this process is not inevitable! It does not have to be like this. Our world does not have to end this way... We could turn the salvaging of our environmental consciousness and faith in our planet into the Ultimate Cause. They could become the new religion! For in an Age of Uncertainty; I would rather place my belief in the planet Gaia and the Olympians; than in any doubting; sceptical; inconsequential; mediocre; uncharismatic; idiosyncratic; 7

malevolent; irrelevant; superfluous; extorting; mercenary; self-seeking global secular, political and economic authority... We could start prompting polluters and those who act as defiant heresiarchs who are turning us treacherously from the cause of saving our own planetary Matriarch of Earth. Can a more perfidious crime exist –short of extinguishing an entire galaxy… the Spiral Arm-or the Universe itself?

Some might sigh in defeat at the magnitude of the challenges –especially ecological… that face the human race. They may despair at these as insuperable, overwhelming circumstances that cannot be browbeaten into submission. Too many become apathetic and simply relinquish fee will and their futures, conceding defeat: “What is the point?” But we reject this. We argue that in itself; if nothing else it reminds us of our vulnerability; our humanity and our need for spiritual adherence and loyalties to the physical, spiritual; ecological forces that keep us going. To enquire: What is it that keeps us going? What reason do we have to arise in the morning? Every day; each hour; any moment may be our last. We may be tested and assessed at any point… and it may be our ultimate! We are under the scrutiny of the Elementals and will have to contend with Hecate; Gaia; the Fates; the Furies; Hades and Chronus. So, remember that before committing to anything... or to nothing. It is they and to our fellow species; that we will ultimately have to pay for our atrocious record; which may take 3500 years or more to restore. But; as long as we start now –and try –perhaps they may be merciful. However, if we do not care for our planet; desecrating both her and them, then they have scarce incentive to cooperate... We have to prove ourselves worthy. After all; we got ourselves into this mess. There is virtually zilch chances of any deity or extra-terrestrial life force seeking to resolve this on our behalf. We have excluded other species from their potential be thrive in being alive –let alone to excel. So, we cannot blame anyone else for this state of chaos and desolation but us. Blindly; we cannot rely on them to save us. Nor can we rely on those in positions of power. The rare few who notice do little or nothing to reform; while most of those pledging reform, serve as hypocrites. Their actions lives/decisions betraying these so-called principles. No; it is up to us and us alone; as self –designated planetary rulers/ custodians of the natural environment to change this.

If nothing else consider the fact and be content that whatever your misfortunes, generally there is someone worse off than you. At least you have been spared the misfortunes of others; given that no one person acts as a single source of pure misery. Be thankful too for the gods and life. Be appreciative of having the ability to experience sensory perceptions; to savour new experiences; mobility to move and travel; the ability to read; think; listen; speak; eat; drink; sleep; dream; for possessing the basic essentials for life. Be thankful for avoiding retribution and Tartarus by the Gods; infirmities. Consider the miracles! You were born –one of a billion potential sperm. Second; you are alive –at this point and place in time! Be appreciative if nothing else –and even if not as perfect as you would like to be –8

that you could suffer even worse –physical, mental, psychological, emotional, economic/ familial/environmental or any other deficiencies and defects. Is this not reason enough to save the planet; to the best of our capacity? Contentment with your part in life that is what the animate forces including our Elementals and Gaia themselves ask of us. Even if we; ourselves lack it. (Although surely doing something worthy is meaningful in itself?) Why should we deny that to other species; many of whom just want to be left alone to live their lives in peace...

There are always the Muses. There is always Fortuna... There is always the opportunity for something else... whatever a new encounter; experience or opportunity might deliver. This treatise; proclaims that it is the environment among humanity and among climate change; and ardently defending it; that will present us; with a new challenge. This approach is unlike most sources; which are too factual and scientific discussing empirical case studies; histories and solutions. They do not however address issues of practical implementation –especially psychological; economic; social; legal and ethical/ philosophical aspects. By focussing not just on theory but in offering practical solutions, we wish people to change the world. If you have an idea worthwhile; just do it. If you have a dream or vision… environmental or otherwise and it is something you believe in; then why ever just dream it?

Issues of self-doubt plaguing one can often be countered by considering this: Do we ever reflect enough and value; what is going right in our existence; rather than what is going wrong? At least; we know there is an impending planetary environmental crisis. Many of us as individuals; as communities; as organisations and as governments; want change and have tried; in our own ways. Those worthy of the sacrosanct privilege of existence ought to want to redeem ourselves by reducing our carbon footprint and pollutant impact on our world... This volume salutes that. It openly identifies this. But it seeks to publicise these achievements and so many others so that their sacrifices are meaningful. It realises only a few are recorded here. But there are a significant proportion of human beings who are awake to reality… and have done something. We honour their sacrifices, hoping one day human society will dare to do the same rather than to snigger and jeer, deride, ostracise, ignore or condemn them… It also seeks to avoid some of the worst catastrophes and atrocities embodied in our Terrestrial Ecological History from recurring again…

Let us honour and acclaim Chronus –who has granted us the time and the opportunity to achieve so much. If we do not make the most of whatever we have been granted; we cannot complain justifiably when nothing happens. Nor can we complain when something –most notably life... passes us by. When it comes to the planet that has granted us every opportunity to elevate ourselves in life or to at least exist and to live at all; surely we can spare the time; effort and resources to do something for the planet in return. Ever since we

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first learnt to exploit the environment… to terraform –without feeling being beholden to the natural world… it has been a highly distorted one sided relationship that has to change. Let us face the truth –many of us –far too many, simply do not care… at all… Too many have no intension about doing something about this problem –or even care at all. This treatise wonders why?

After all think about the sources of the problems that beset you? How many of them can be justly attributable to other species? How many of them can be attributable to the planet or the environment? Surely many of them either derive from humans or perhaps other spiritual/ physical forces and conditions? So why is it; that so much of our destructive approaches; attitudes and assaults; our revenges and retributions are orchestrated against a hapless planet? Why not target our real adversaries –whatever and whoever they might be? Think of the solution and not of the problem… We cannot complain too; about how others –i.e. our leadership have responded –or fail to respond with the crisis. If we do nothing to challenge them, we cannot complain about the present or the future of the world. We cannot protest logically about how things will turn out for our environment; if we just let it float past, without seeking to participate in it...

What does it mean to be human? Always ask yourself that before you retire each time Erebus and Selene wax high; and when you rise with Aurora/ the aether and Helios. In synopsis. To be human is to really identify with our planet –and the “Climate War”. It means to do something about it because there is nothing to prevent us from doing so. Is it human to be so destructive? Is it human to be so contemptuous of other species and to be so aggressive not just to others of our own species, (which may or may not be merited or justifiable) –but to those most innocent. So many incur our animosity, folly, ignorance and contempt that has not ever done anything to us except out of self-defence or survival/ necessity? So many other species do not provoke attack or aggression –except for those reasons. So why in fact do we feel so different? What can it mean to be human?

Surely at the very least it does not mean that we have no devotion to the environment, that we are content to swallow, wade, inhale and asphyxiate in our own decadence; carnality; folly; extravagant waste; materialism overindulgence and gross, reeking, putrefaction? Do we not owe it to our planet if nothing else to reform? We owe this to our planet; for the resources to nourish us; for the elemental right of life itself –and from everything that Nature has given and taught us (Some of which are outlined in the Way of Gaia section). Besides; why does being human only have to be a negative force in relation to the environment; when that cannot be our intended purpose? Why is it not possible to reform to mitigate our impact; to endorse change; to care and to act for the first time ever as a benign entity. Why choose to be a malevolent Presence… leaching and sponging off

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the rest of the world. Why leave only behind ashes… and the morbid shroud of sorrow and lingering mordacious decay. swiftly hearkening ruin…?

Apply this as a philosophy; as a psychology and persevere. Finding something we can to resist the mess is the only way we ought to be able to face ourselves by any standard of virtue; decency; honesty and self-respect rather than self-loathing. If we were honest to ourselves as well as those to whom we might owe fealty, commitments or responsibilities, then mediocrities, degenerates and hypocrites would not hold such global dominance. A person can always be evaluated on the point of: “How did they choose to allocate and divide the time granted to them by the Fates; Chronus and Hades?” They can also be evaluated on how much time they afforded those causes most significant. And the environmental one for our planetary ecosystem to survive among high population and climate change pressures; surpasses all others. Recognition and adjusting to compensate for glaring vulnerabilities is what matters to those of the classical pantheon who judge us; accepting our limits. Yet striving for our potential not survival of attrition is most meaningful.

And what of the Deities or forces we believe in –including the anthromorphism Gaia; themselves? Belief in them above all others; ought to be sustainable; despite everything because they remind us of our principles; our humanity; our flaws and vulnerability; our own capacity and potential for greatness –and disaster. But finally, we are reminded of our own mortality. The gods themselves must surely exalt and appreciate those who utilise their talents granted; energetically. They esteem those who make something of themselves –or at least have the gumption to persist and try. They immortalise those who have managed or have sort to master their circumstances; assimilate to their environment and overcome flaws –whether mental; physical; spiritual; emotional; psychological etc.; suppress or diminish ingesting vices. Above all else they remind us that the purpose of life –is to live! We must yearn to breathe and participate with passion; enthusiasm; a probing mind; sound body and soul; yearning for life; curiosity and creativity. What nobler purposes or points can we aspire to other than to better our lives; ourselves; our world and our galaxy... Thank the gods for beauty of Gaia –working to conserve it and find inspiration/ solace in it and you can stomach the hideousness not only of our modern world’s constructions; but also our modern world and human nature.

Our planet clearly exerts evident influence in every spectrum of our diurnal existence –especially the Muses –which no scientist can refute. It transpires visually in the changes that are rapidly becoming more –and more evident –to even the blind! If there were no other reason to ascribe value and priority to our planet; than this; it would still be worth protecting and striving to address its impending demise; for this alone…. It has the potential to solve almost every natural and human problem that plights us, -even

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medically… What is the sense in causing the extinction of even a singlemost species; when it may hold the elixir not just to the most intoxicating diseases and poisons humanity face? It might even prolong aging; endurance, –even life itself… Of course; we may have already lost that opportunity. It might have been the dodo for all we know…

Our ethos and era will champion these individuals; cherishing distinction which the conformity of globalisation subjugates. Globalisation has no time for the environmental cause –as lobbyists. Often they lack the clout, influence; funding and resources of more established; Merchants of Death (Ours and our planets). But because of their essential message; their altruism; selflessness; passion; energy; recognition and ardent desire for an environmental transformation; we affirm that these are the very ones that we ought to support as much as possible… Ours will be the first movement; our leadership will be the first to empower them direct; not just to halt their persecution; but to listen to these martyrs; who have sacrificed something on behalf of the worthiest and ultimate cause. These should be honoured and supported over than their voracious; all-consuming counterparts. There is something inherently perverse; unjust and debauched about a society and series of civilisations; about a leadership; media; masses and judicial system of laws… that is not only speciest but simply has no concern at all about the organic rather than the artificial spheroid they happen to co-inhabit. This is along with so many other forces –individuals; communities; corporations, academics and organisations that do not care about littering; polluting; the human impact or at the very least are speciest; even unwilling/unable to transmute…

The precept of Syncretism through history can assimilate the Olympians with other historical faiths to prove their validity compatible with polytheism. For only a religion based on worshipping and venerating Nature and the Olympians; over others who care only for themselves and their followers over their environment as pantheism may have a chance spiritually. We cannot look for answers in current leadership who preaches materialism and economic growth rather than harmony; balance and sustainability. We cannot look for salvation in monotheism and other creeds which preach domination over all other species; or modern science and technology; which cares more about profits and fame; than concrete ways to save us all for the most part. We cannot find environmental salvation in something that even rejects the ultimate value of the planet. Materialism is measured in the speciae of the world. What is the environment valued and measured in? Regardless of whether you can place a value on it (and it should be possible for that most essential); it appears to have far less value. Few even seem to desire or appreciate the environment they have access to –that surrounds them; without which it would be impossible to survive; let alone thrive…. All of our material achievements would be worthless without the sacrifice of other species to make this moment… this place… this achievement… possible… They would be impossible without natural resources. 12

And so the planet and Gods continue to send warnings –cataclysmic portents as perpetually ignored warnings. As humans we do not learn to climateproof, futureproof or favour ecological restoration from every spiralling natural and human ecological catastrophe. It is not just the gods but our fellow humans that are warning us, on a momentary basis. Moments of disaster; sorrow; pain; misfortune; have their uses... if we learn from them. It proves to be exercises in folly and hubris to usurp the role of Nature herself in the ecosystem; and the Gods themselves over all living species, including our own. However; if not considered and if we do not take an interest; then we deserve our fate –having failed to master it. We have failed to exercise self –control and free will –or even to try and make a serious devoted effort. This environmental crisis, accentuated by a climate change cataclysm is a moment of testing–to see if we are worthy enough to defend our planet; as self-appointed masters and mistresses alike. If we fail –at least we tried. Some might leave it at that. But do we really want to be remembered as such to the Gods and other life forms within the Universe? -When they look at the gift of Earth and find it among the ashes of worlds… -especially when they see what we have done with this finite existing world; what will their perspective be. How will they react? Our legacy so far is not exactly a brilliant recommendation

One day we will pay the most terrible price of all for our neglect of our planet. One day there will be a Reckoning… A Harrowing… a Purge… The planet is already retaliating with Cataclysms… Disasters… Pestilences and Climatic Mutations… Whose side do we wish to be on? If we desire to be with those reactionaries who loathe the planet and deserve her Vengeance for their treachery; then we have to ask: Are we more powerful than the planet herself? Are we capable of withstanding everything she can throw against us? Are we prepared to give up so much and face the prospects of living in a ravaged world because we have ignored her warnings and the necessary constraints, equilibriums and natural laws that she and the Elementals demand obeisance from every living member of every possible living species?

What we really require is not to abdicate our duties and responsibilities; as self-appointed rulers of this planet; under the mandate and aegis of the Immortals. We need to treasure our duties as self-reckoned custodians and curators of our planet and its ecosystem –with fidelity to conserve its denizens of all species. What we really need... is gratitude... We must restore our honour and our dignatas; forever tainted and imperilled by the impurities with which we have corroded this sacrosanct and venerable world of ours. We need to identify what is necessary –and then to do something about it. It seems common sense; but then; we have to consider: Why is no one doing anything epic about it? It really isn’t that hard; is it? Between mortals and our planet; Gaia and the Olympians’ will shall always triumph. You only have to be in the eye of a maelstrom to realise that. Technology 13

will always be hapless if relied on alone. Its progress is not going to save us if it works. Any decent gale; precipitation; thunder and lightning sent by the Elementals and our spheroid has the capacity to scramble our satellite networks; the sources which power our existence and to affect our very shelters; our very civilisation... our very lives! We are vulnerable. Civilisation and all of our achievements could only matter if we had increased the odds of actually enduring. Yet space exploration has largely stalled. Ever since the demise of the Cold War –with the Soviets as competitors, we have sent no more to the Moon. No terraformed lunar, Mars and Outer Rim colonies exist. Space’s stagnation remains one of our greatest disappointments as a species. When noting the solitude of our species… and our one inhabitable world, it is wise to condemn hubris. For we defy at our peril…

Does it seriously take a crisis point or a book to point out the blindingly obvious? Only then –at the zenith and aperture of their abilities thrust against us; do we relent; pause and yield? Only then to our shame; do most of us think about our planet and our gods, when we should be paying due reverence and homage to them at every possible point! Our planet matters. Without our planet –without Her –and the Gods, we have no defences enabling our survival. Each storm they send; demonstrates their fury; in a way that scientists or politicians will never understand... –for all their explaining away. It is an ominous auspice –that we need to prostrate ourselves before them. Each natural disaster, each climate event serves a potent symbol to remind us that we need them. So; why not champion the side of the most powerful? Why not seek to revere and champion the cause of the ecological movement? Its common sense. It might ensure your survival and help to appease the most potent anthromorphic forces that we know of: most commendably our world Gaia –itself? After all, they cannot be ignored! Nor will they; as ecological history and the continuing volley of perpetual natural disasters exemplifies!

Therefore; this treatise attempts to resolve the previous issues. In Chapter I it outlines the dangers of Globalisation and Materialism for the environmentalist movement These include creating the false impression that both are benign rather than maleficent. In Chapter 2 Secularism: Initiating our Extinction; we argue that to not view the planet as alive; is not to value and appreciate/ revere it. By ignoring it and its plight; as secularism is responsible for; is cause the mass suicide of the human race. The following section: Chapter 3: Countering the Warfare Mentality views Humanity as essentially antagonistic. It considers how wars and conflicts have been a fundamental part of humanity to the detriment of the environment. This causes humans to wage war not only against themselves and each other; but also; the planet.

With Chapter 4: The Ecological History, it details the ecological history of the planet and humanity’s attempts to destroy or conserve it. It traces those of movements and individuals. The purpose of Chapter 5: The Great Environmentalism Debate: Challenges;

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Arguments and Refuting Counter Arguments presents common pro-environmental arguments against opponents and detractors: Chapter 6: The Perversion of Science shows how modern science and technology has been warped. It remains devoted against environmentalism; perverted and twisted into experimenting upon other species. In many respects it disappoints in not helping humanity or improving the world towards being climateproofed and truly ecologically sustainable. It remains profit, fame and status orientated needing altering if we are to rely upon. Chapter 7: concentrates the solution of The Dune Approach. This is the central environmental basis inspired by the works of Frank Herbert’s Dune Saga; that aspires to ecological literacy; and scholarship. It also provides a blueprint to make this place; this sphere we inhabit a fit place for humans; but also for vegetation and other species. It argues that targeting the environment; is not only the singular way to validate our stewardship but explains the ecosystem and what we need to do to continue its capacity to sustain all life dependent upon it This remains imperative in the absence of any other planets known to have life...

Chapters 8 to 14; remind us –that any environmental treatise has to remember the fundamental differences between continents and nations in their approach to the environment and conservation –but also to unite them in Chapter 8: Africa: Chapter 9: Asia Chapter 10: Europa Chapter 11: North America , Chapter 12: South America: Chapter 13: Oceania: and finally in Chapter 14: the Arctic and Antarctica is covered: Each outlines the main causes; problems and solutions –designed specifically for each continent; in the realisation that this is a global crisis... Chapter 15: Motivation: -Environmentalist Psychology –One of the major problems of currently existing environmental factions, is their common failure to grasp the motivation and the psychology that would prompt them The next chapter, Chapter 16: on Environmental Economics, seeks to refute the common allegation made by critics that it is a choice between the economy/human current lifestyle or the planet. And yet; presented like that –most prefer the economy to the Environment. However; this presents a blueprint for a more environmentally conscious; Green economy to be more stable and sustainable; and seeks to pre empt further points of criticism.

Chapter 17: The Charter and Preamble of Fauna/Flora Emancipation: This section justifies the proposal to enfranchise not just our species. This includes establishing legal protection to all sentient animals/souls of other species. Chapter 18: Proposed Legislation: This provides revisions to the tax code and a legislative framework with which to transform the planet. It also provides details of suitable environmental linked sentences for those infringing environmental related laws. Chapter 19 is dedicated to pursuing the alternative of ecotourism. This includes arguments to lower the human impact and find ways of persuading humanity. This aims for tourists to lower their impact upon the planet –while conserving species/ biodiversity. Chapter 20: How to Reform? This focuses on practical; eco-friendly solutions that governments and commercial companies could adopt on behalf 15

of their planet’s environment, if they so choose. It argues how this will be benevolent to them as well.

Chapter 21: The Way of Gaia: This espouses what we can learn from Gaia and how we can learn with our planet synergistically. It incorporates an environmental philosophical approach. Chapter 22: Progressing Forward, essentially deals with the motivation to continue and what we need to consider in attaining a true “Green Revolution!” Chapter 23: Common Sense and Small Steps: You are what you choose to do –not what you say you will do. Only you can decide, how you choose to act for the planet. Ultimately, we cannot rely on government; NGO’s and companies alone. Common sense dictates that saving our environment will improve our health; welfare; economy; chances of survival; quality of life and so on. This section focuses on pragmatic steps; that we as individuals can do to efface change. That is; -assuming we and others want to or even be bothered to actually give a toss. The choice is ours. That is the price of free will… Life or death? It is up to us to decide what kind of a reality to face. Do we just want to withdraw from the world and do nothing or worsen the problem? It will happen, with or without us. But we are not powerless to reduce the intensity of our consequences. Or can we do something and deserve our world –winning the ultimate prize of ensuring a greater approximation for Paradise and progress? Hitherto we have never managed to achieve this, lacking the long-term commitment… vision… technology… passionate energy and ecological maturity to achieve. There is no reason not to do so, once we accept that materialism, secularism; our obsession with war, conflict and greed/ apathy has distracted us from what truly matters.

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Chapter I: The Dangers of Globalisation and Materialism:

Secularism primarily absolves the present of both forfeiting the rights of our species and our planetary responsibilities. Our responsibilities are those which deserve a far more enduring and unwavering allegiance then to any mortal and terrestrial authority, something often forgotten for more intermediate and yet more trivial affairs. Secularism –Darwinism, materialism or any of the myriad creeds to which a globalised populace believe…is blatantly about self-enriching motives of profits and balance sheets. This entwines power and destruction –not that of creation, by the most omnipotent of natural engineers: Gaia and the very Gods themselves from Zeus to Poseidon to Helios; Selene and Demeter or whoever may influence mortal actions. This section warns of the dangers of globalisation and materialism for environmentalism. It jeopardises the ethos of conserving the planetary ecosystem that we want to install. It concentrates on why the current system of beliefs is not only unsustainable but why; any neophyte who values their world cannot support the Globalisation Doctrine that is indoctrinated since youth. Regardless of its eloquent apologists; we should reject this ideology for many reasons.

Globalisation as a doctrine at the very least can be faulted or need to reform because it does not prioritise the environment. This is even when it can be bothered to listen to/ 17

mention it. It is essentially anti-life. This can be affirmed as this dogma eulogises materialism and the raping plunder of Earth to the shameful extent that people are prepared to accept it blithely as normal –and live with it. Globalisation and secularism are inherently entwined. The former can be characterised as the ascent of a world that seeks a uniform culture –of clothing; art; architecture; technology; materialism, corporate capitalism, globalised economics and Western parliamentary party oligarchy systems of governance. It involves the ascendency of media; social networking; technology, alienation of the family/society and other modern ideas universally imposed upon all. It frequently offers no allowances or toleration for diversity… political, economy, indigenous rights, individualism, climate change or the environment as prime priorities. Secularism or atheism denotes the absence of belief in spiritual presence; guiding force and conscience as a consistent set of principles and ideas to which/whom people place loyalty. Potentially this could extend belief in Gaia –as the anthromorphism embodying the natural forces of the planet. However; globalisation has entailed the dispossession of organised religion whereas technology; science and Darwinism have largely displaced belief in religion.

Both however; have dangers for this planet. Both fail to consider the environment at all –treating it; as merely another experiment to meddle in; an infinite resource bank to be harvested for personal greed and ephemeral profits. How exactly does globalisation aid the planet’s own self–conservation, when it so clearly espouses a system based on carnality; of waste; inefficiency and overindulgence rather than self–control and restraint? And we call ourselves human as members of a superior evolutionary process according to the Darwinists? What is so superior about our ecological relationship among others, when as species we are all considered to be nothing biologically special according to everything they and their founder decreed? Can science and monotheism; can globalisation –with its imperialism and monoculture; can modern technology solve our environmental problems –These are the most fundamental issues that our planet has in our modern world. In fact; it is the only recurring constant problem traceable to the dawn and preoccupations of humans over the last several millennia and where we are failing abysmally. It is one where we care even less. In what other area of human endeavour can we point to such little evidence of progress, where nothing is happening of note? And yet; surely it is time for a change? This is critical if only to prove to ourselves that globalisation can be a force for good, a relevant force for change. We need to prove its one that is worth subsidising and is responsive to the challenges and constraints of our age; that our species individually and collectively faces? We have given it many decades to prove itself to us it is deserving of our faith, trust; loyalty and confidence. This is the prime barometer by which we can measure whether or not; from an environmental but also from a social and human perspective; is it responsive… and is it working?

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Given all these horrors; there is a question we have to naturally ask: Is this degeneration of the world we inhabit inevitable? Can something be done? It is not inevitable, despite what the sceptics say. Humanity has the potential to avert the disaster it caused. This is provided it has all the resources it needs and all the support. As the website this treatise is on declares, we need this not just merely from the leadership but from any citizen worth living upon this planet. We have managed to achieve wondrous advances before. As humans; we are capable of demonstrating this potential once more. Even in environmentalism; we introduced catalytic converters; banned DDT and lead in petroleum. Our century abolished trading in ivory; created CITES. Many sought to do something about global warming by ratifying Kyoto and established many reserves; zoological gardens and sanctuaries. We even managed to keep our 7th continent Antarctica as a symbol of ecological unity; free of the human settling impact open to research and scholarship and a diplomatic partnership among so many disparate countries from Russia to Europe to the USA to South Africa to Argentina. So, it is possible if we reject globalisation and we reject any effort to halt this. But so much more remains to be done.

By extension to considering the environmentalist cause; ought we to do something or just continue to blithely worship globalisation? If we choose to focus on globalisation, we have to see if it is capable of answering the problems we have. Is it responsive to us and do we matter to those powers in this world that espouse it? The questions are fundamental to our survival. But many, far too many focus on the minor trivialities of their lives. Climate change uncertainty, an exploding population and lurching ecological catastrophes globally point how absurdly ridiculous these are. Perhaps we will have the time for such self-centred luxuries; -if we act soon! But if we ignore the singlemost challenge of this era; then any other potential problem that one can possibly think of will be rather irrelevant. We can choose our future and our fate. Or we can leave it to the Fates, purely random with no influence. What would you choose? It is the ultimate choice. For if we elect not to value the absolute; ultimate liberty, then we really do commit the ultimate blasphemy of being hypocritical and ungrateful to the universe. Apathy is our own fault when we complain facetiously; of our impending; ultimate and perilous doom; without acting.

If we do not do something; if we condemn global civilisation; but do nothing to either reform it –or to reject those that do; then we cannot blame anyone. Or failing all other options; we need to rebel and overthrow it. Otherwise again we can only blame ourselves. After all; when the entire system of entropy; the artifice that sustains life itself –quavers and quakes under its cataclysmic rift, we face the consequences of our inaction and ingratitude as bleak. Thanks to globalisation –those apologists for globalisation –and those people who contributed to its continued; unreformed course of materialism and planetcide… will have nothing and no one to blame but themselves. In this century of instant communication, rapid technological access and advance, with all the information; 19

education and empirical evidence at our ultimate command, we cannot even blame it on ignorance like so many could in previous centuries. We can no longer have excuses made for us In the age of mass education; instant access to information; media and social networking forces circumnavigating the planet, only the naïve and the obtuse/ intellectually dense can defend their ignorance.

The world and universe; the very gods themselves –especially Gaia know humanity all too well. Their benevolence and patience, tolerance and endurance has surely been corroded. We will pay soon; as the choices granted are instantaneously contracting, especially if we lose focus of our planet’s fate –and the dearth of each organism that contributes to it… What do we contribute to the world and to other species? Every other species offers something. We don’t appear to other than enslavement, extermination, the follies of terraforming and the brilliance of destroying both natural and our brighter human achievements. It is time to act –to reverse it –before the rest of the universe –and other species that co-habit our world; really wake up. We can liberate and reform or face the ultimate consequences –not of our own control. That is the price of free will that we have exploited for so long.

It is obvious why so many support it. They appear to gain from the illusion of material progress. But do we ever stop to seriously contemplate what we actually lose from globalisation? Do we ever bother to enquire: Why we should continue to enrich those –who are merchants of terrestrial death and their enslaved political/economic/academic/NGO/media or other servants? What is really in it for us? In the short term; how satisfied are you with conspicuous consumption? How pleasant are you and the substituting of life’s brimming; iridescent opulence and quality for mere ephemeral quantity and materialism. How satisfying really is an unending greed/wrath/ life of folly perhaps the ultimate; never-ending yearning; an unquenchable thirst that will never be satiated by the voracious void of globalisation? How appetising are the forces sapping everything individual; unique; wholesome and pure not only from the community and from the biosphere; but from the world as well. In the long term; none of the transient fripperies many lust over matter… What matters most; what enriches us most comes from the planet; from others and from ourselves. This is not as a consequence of many temporary technical/ technological advances Many great things are simple). Just think of the problems we face. How many really result from the planet; in comparison to what we gain from it? Then turn the same question around and apply it to globalisation.

The question most fail to ask themselves is: “Why does it have to be like this? Why do we –to each and every one of us; who opt to continue this; continue to sustain this system? Why ignore what is not only good for us in terms of a sustainable ecosystem and environment with sufficient biodiversity; but what is necessary?” But supporting

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globalisation; achieves just that. The world is full of unnatural and artificial examples that are not good for us retard us; fail us or otherwise impose costs that exceed any potential benefits. Practically all are human engineered and devised. Virtually none derive from the planet herself. We cannot hope to reform everyone and others. But surely we can do something about the planet for the sake of ourselves and any living entity –flora or fauna that we remotely give a toss about; empathise with…or value? It is so tempting –so easy not to care. Responsibility takes effort; perseverance and commitment. But we must do something; if we deserve our birthright. Perhaps those who don’t deserve to be purged! For how can they continue to justify their lives –their mere existence? How can they conscientiously live with themselves; based on their profane actions? Again; why should we put up with and be so patient at tolerating this infringement of our quality of life; our personal interests; our beliefs and any semblance of compassion; concern or fealty to the planet herself?

When is enough; enough? When we are at the end at the edge of a post-apocalyptic world, wrought by the vengeance of the Gods and Gaia; against the devastation of humans themselves and their folly? At the rate of current consumption and extermination; along with the expanding global human population and the shrinking biomass to nourish them, is that enough? Perhaps even our current varied diets as we know them; will be impossible to imagine –or remember. Without fish farms; quotas and naval protection; fish and seafood will become a thing of the past. Insects, algae and artificial soya, tofu or microprotein may be not just a whim but a necessity. Climate change and loss of biodiversity elsewhere in the ecosystem. Even things such as grapes; barley; parsnips and other common things are by no means guaranteed by those currently ruling; who care not for advancing a real Eco Revolution. Of what use are genetically modified crops without the species to pollinate them; without fresh air; sunlight and rainfall? Of what use is civilisation, when it cannot fabricate a new planet? With our planet we have to wonder; what are those who favour economics; science and technology over the biosphere herself; really thinking? Are they thinking at all? If so, why not actually do something about it?

Globalisation from an environmental perspective has only compounded the increasingly inevitable death; chaos and doom. These have always thwarted our species but now are accelerating the pace of attrition beyond the environment’s absorptive capacity. Consider the nature of greater volumes of global transport, trade flows; with ever higher industrial emissions and other discharged effluents. Consider more and more people -over 7 billion demanding Hollywood lifestyles and affluence. This is unsustainable –a fact so often pointed to –and nothing is ever achieved to mitigate or reverse it. Yet virtually no thought and action has been devoted to offset the costs/ impact that the globalisation process has on the environment. The leaders of the world seldom present truly viable solutions. They never consider the intermediate –let alone the long term factors, especially when it comes 21

to the impact of the environment, climate change realities and the unsustainability of current patterns of technological and economic growth. From an early age, humans are taught not to question certain, fundamental tenets –which so many of us are indoctrinated into thinking that they are self-evident truths –which are never challenged –let alone analysed.

These include ones - (which society considers heretical to disagree with) that globalisation is the highest achievement of humanity; that technological advances are always benign. It includes the indoctrination that we alone have a right to dominate and exploit this planet –and its fellow species. For the planet exists merely for our right alone… They include the infinite abundance of resources that will last forever; that no matter what we do; the planet will resolve our mess –and will always be there for us. It includes the unsubstantiated assertion that we do not have to atone for what we have done to any deity or deities; to the planet herself; to any community; government and rule of law. (Look how trivial environmental offences from littering to poaching to pollution to planetcide, human engineered climate change and specicide are taken by the powers of the world and society –including the media and business) to other species. Even to ourselves; there are few penalties and we seldom incur immediate –or even intermediate consequences to our actions. (This is apart from what the gods and nature are retaliating with –especially greater natural disasters of higher frequency, intensity and duration). But then this material Age; who has mostly forsworn true; uncompromised religious belief or environmental literacy and gratitude. (Such is modern urbanisation and globalisation). It holds nothing as sacred or sacrosanct except the trivial and short-term wealth; while blind to the greatest trove in the galaxy. Earth is tarnishing and corroding beside us.

The modern world sacrifices so much. As later the Way of Gaia shows; the question is; what is it and what is globalisation really providing not just ourselves but our planet, in exchange... and is it worth it? Maybe it is if you are one of the all-consuming; chosen wealthy elite of the world. But wealth cannot provide everything and resolve all problems. We are not at the stage where Warren Buffet; Bill Gates; the Sultan of Brunei; the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia or the United Kingdom and others can prevent death. Nor can they access, finance or custom build a new planet; revive what is lost in the ecosystem; avert natural disasters or control the wrath of the Elemental Gods from the maelstrom of climatological disruption. No being individually or collectively cannot buy themselves out of it. Nor can Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg or other technocrat “superheroes” do so. How can the ultimate sacrifice be worth it, when none of us; will gain anything in return? The ecosystem doesn’t even have to fragment to the degree of a world of ashes… it only has to change temperature; sea levels; deforestation/ fresh water and oxygen levels. It only requires the dearth of a few essential species etc to pay and the world as we know it –will be no more. The hardships that we will have to face from the collapse of the 22

ecosystem; creating even more chaos and uncertainty… are they worth it? These cannot be convincingly refuted or denied? If there is a probability for something so dramatic and drastic to occur –would it not be sensible to take precautions. Would it not at the very least to spend some part of your life –even a few moments; contemplating it? Many will perish and not survive in a post–human impact Age… Can you?

Globalisation seeks nothing more than to reduce the human relationship with oneself and one’s identity and the connection with one’s planet to only that of itself. It preaches only subservience and enslavement to itself and its dogmatic doctrines. Most technological purpose is self-serving to reinforce this dependency and control. Like most addictions –try living without it. Try being voluntarily detached form the human world and its affairs/ concerns and to consider the environment as well. It seeks to usurp Gaia and the natural pantheon hierarchy of the Gods. It does so by ensuring that the concern of every organism to consider its own survival and appreciate the limits/warnings and other gifts/ blessings conferred by the planet on all species is zapped and frizzled. Technology does this in order to consolidate its own power and the leadership it serves. Politicians… scientists… corporations… -do they really have our best interests; in desecrating our former ecological relationship? This includes severing all interlinkages to the ecological matrix to replace them with virtual reality; the artificial and the electronic? At the least we should have balance and a choice. But for many; they have to accept globalisation. They are never given the real choice to live with their planet more sustainably and harmoniously, to retain their purified essence if they so desire…

Globalisation’s dangers are obvious in the way that they have accelerated the pace of the human race’s self-destruction through pollution. These are included through the heightened consequences/rapid pace of advancement; without special attention devoted –not only to the impact on humanity; but also upon the environment and other species. This is particularly when they are affected unnecessarily; since so many technological aspects of globalisation have generated just as many solutions (if not more); than the problems they were meant to be resolving. All that we desire is that it serves a social and environmentally sustainable purpose when possible, not just a profitable self-interested form. We are not against technology. But only that technology which has the potential to save our planet and aid the welfare of all species not just our own; at the expense of others; ought to be favoured. We certainly do not need anything of an era that only complicates and worsens our chances of environmental resuscitation when alternatives exist. The challenge is formidable and potent enough; without intensifying it further…

What is the point of materialism; of senseless accumulation? How much do we really need? What can we afford to sacrifice? How much choice is really enough to appease us? Is it not better as consumers and producers to be satisfied with what we have? Is it not

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better to seek ‘greener” products that are more organic/recyclable as close to zero discharge as possible? Too many empirical studies –have affirmed that accumulating more; does not make people more content. This is in addition to the universal nature of most religions; philosophies and psychologies citing the same warnings against excessive materialism especially if it is at the expense of their quality of life; environment; or emotional; physical; spiritual; psychological and mental health. Think of the times when you we most truly at peace/satisfaction. How many of those moments were based on consumerism; rather than an experience; enjoyable activity/situation/company etc.? How much animosity; conflict and violence come from the grasp of jealously and avarice? If there is abiding serenity and ecstasy; it derives from physical improvements in the quality of life especially in health and the environment. Why ignore not only what is good from us –but what is essential. So much comes from nature; that describes this. Our terrestrial biomass is the ultimate natural provider of this. Perhaps we should not categorically reject; what is not only necessary and healthy for us; but what defines us and what is irreplaceable…. Besides; our biosphere grants us so much. Is it really too much to be just a bit grateful and respectful in return –and work to minimise our most destructive impacts upon the planet?

In addition; logically what could serve our better interests then the survival and continuance of our species as a whole? So why lack the backbone and the sacrifices necessary to reverse –or avert; at the very least; mitigate this impending planetary genocide; the Apocalypse of the human species –and the Holocaust of Life itself... inevitable unless we act soon. And still; we cower, afraid to take the radical steps needed. If we had been as hesitant over some of the other courses of history and initiatives that we have undertaken; individually –and as a collective species; as reticent as we have been over this cause; than nothing so meaningful would have ever been taken. We have achieved so much that has been considered impossible. This is scarcely the issue that we wish to collapse upon, especially when it consists of a series of barricades which we are able to dismantle.

We really should be asking of ourselves: How can we strive to improve our own existence and assure our own survival? How and what can we do to make our planet a better place? What can we do at this moment to atone for the shameful raping and plundering of our callous predecessors and others in the world? Even if not for them; what about our own actions? Or failing that; let us at least have the wisdom not to interfere –and make things much worse. Intervention erroneously often precipitates where it does not instigate: conflict and destabilises our fragile ecological equilibrium. We cannot claim to have selective morality, ethics; principles or conscience for it to be credible; believable and meaningful for others and even ourselves (hypocrisy if we do. We either believe in treating other nonhuman souls and all parts of our planet; with the same dignity and way; 24

or we don’t… We either treat them as we would those we most admire; revere and respect; the way that we expect to follow humanity –the way that we, ourselves wish others to treat and behave towards us… - or we do not. We either believe in something as meaningful as our planet, in a position of equality for all or we don’t… Otherwise; how could we possibly justify it to be reciprocated by anyone? When it comes to that which we most value; our core inner principles and beliefs that define who we are; and what we hold as most hallowed and uncompromising to us… then it obviously doesn’t really matter to us. If it does not extend to the environment; if it is qualified; exclusionary and conditional… it might be best if we recognised that candour, rather than continuing to profess that hollow lie as debase hypocrites.

We should be really asking of ourselves: What can we sacrifice on behalf of a planet who –unasked, unacknowledged; despite her callous rape; has only sacrificed everything in order that all her species might have a chance to exist? Materialism is stupendous; flabbergasting greed... We should be asking: What can we forfeit to continue our existence? What can we afford to live without? Are we finally willing and prepared to act? Surely there must be something we can sacrifice? It does not have to be phenomenal resources… -time; passion, free will, energy, motivation and action… these matter even more for the environmental cause, perhaps because they are so rare. How we choose to live our lives matters in relation to every circumstance; anthromorphism and non-human factor that initiated one’s own existence. It incorporates the conceptual capacity of everything produced terrestrially that we know about one way or the other. If, we as humans could show by our convictions; actions; thoughts, words and our principles as well; we can survive. If we could show that we value or planet enough; to desire and wish nothing more than to rehabilitate it, to reverse its plight, we show that we are capable of true compassion; gratitude; sincerity; appreciation; fealty; empathy; passion; tenacity; will and spirit… Without these of course; anything we profess of these in regard to our climate change ravaged planet will be considered a lie… We cannot claim to be anything more than hypocrites; espousing contradictory views and ambivalent expressions, unless we are prepared to place these to the test when it comes to defending our planet herself…

Given that most of the affluent gained economically through exploiting the planet; why could they not afford to clearly give something back? Surely some of that materialism and accumulated trove of wealth, could be used to offset the impact that they have had upon their natural environment –voluntarily or involuntarily? It is only justice based on the free market, user pays principle that they themselves often espouse when it comes to the environment itself. This simply includes whoever derives personal benefit from the item –should pay for it in terms of its actual value. Prices should reflect ecological truths according to supply and demand for the environment. This is so that conserving the ecosystem is viable.25

The natural world is not tainted by materialism. The natural world is not inherently virtuous or vice laden –nor inherently categorised into “good” and “evil” as some state. It is based not on idealism but on pragmatism. These are traits to sentient life from ourselves to the Gods/any spiritual forces. It is conditioned on survival and necessity but also on synergy. Our interlinking artifice that is the ecosystem capable of sustaining life for us all; is capable or surviving without such –why can’t we? Species –need other species to survive. Nothing is an island that can survive on its own. But like the Great Barrier Reef with synergising polyps and other organisms; we need to cooperate with not only the human species but with others if we are to continue to survive; let alone thrive. Conservation of the planet especially under human engineered climate change, provides more life to survive. We are not doing it merely for issues of conscience but also for self-interest. Besides; given the aeon old history of this planet; we should always remember this! It is capable of surviving without us too –we are not indispensable. Forsooth if things do not improve, it would be clearly benefit the planet from the perspective of trillions of organisms and the Gods/Gaia herself if our species were to evaporate. For our own sake, we need to reverse this... before they remember this… and act upon it precipitously…

If nothing else, even the smallest of bugs is worth saving –it may be a deity in disguise or hold the secret to food security, pestilence control, anti-aging, creative inspiration or immortality. (But nevertheless, life in itself has value; even where it does not have value in helping other organisms to thrive). The traditional religions taught that (with the noticeable exceptions of Judaism; Darwinism/secularism and the various strands/sects of the Galileans). It is a modern lesson that we would all be better off remembering… Religions taught empathy; compassion and the value of helping others –what exactly does modern Darwinism/secularism/materialism profess to teach other than that of immediate profit and self -interested. Besides; what did most of these species ever do to you? Think of all the humans that impact upon your life more directly and more incessantly. And yet for the most part you tolerate them (no matter how reluctantly). You do not propose to sacrifice or purge them. And surely you must have felt that at least one or two deserve the fate that most reserve –in squishing other species; whether ant or bird or invertebrate. So why feel so different to a species –even a fly; that is innocuously flying around? It will soon pass on anyway?

For those who act only out of self-interest– -for think what every ecological niche requires; –Gaia and the other Olympians have never made a redundant; completely parasitical species; that has nothing to contribute to other organisms and the ecosystem. This is unless you want to consider humanity currently aspiring to fulfil that most sordid; squalid and odiferous of aspirations). But more fundamentally to those of more compassionate; altruistic motives; all non-degenerate life that is not afflicted with heresy or irrevocably splodged with the blemish of vice; deserves our aid and is equally sacred. Besides; how 26

does trashing our world even being so lazy as to litter and pollute because we are too lazy; indolent and unappreciative to do otherwise; gain us anything but a deteriorating quality of life? The poorer we are; the less we will be able to escape the consequences of a decaying planetary environment. But all of us… even the most affluent and famous will face the consequences of their warfare mentality and speciest attitude to Earth and its denizens; not to mention the deterioration of the ecosystem and the Century of Storms as foretold here and elsewhere.

Those who persist despite myriad warnings deserve their fates justly –to perish –extirpated and self-exterminated... –forewarned; they ought to be forearmed. A failure to prepare; despite previous; this treatise and subsequent warnings... means those deaf and blind to their world’s lament; its ebbing of life force; deserve to face extinction. The only pity and our only sorrow; is that it has to involve the massacre of epic proportions; in the Massacre of Innocents. There are those who are trying and those of other species; whom never contributed to its looming demise in the first place. People might erroneously presume that this warning is overdramatic… We have adapted before and will continue to dominate the planet, to propagate and to do well on this planet. Such is the assumptions that forestall any devotion to the ecological cause that is the only way that the planet has a chance to survive. This is without deciding to forfeit humans/other species as its price…They are complacent and reluctant to take part on the basis of this apparent stability… Are we really technologically advancing when consumerism/ materialism or that of warfare; surpasses our own capacity for future survival? How can we afford to be as blind as those on the Titanic or as naïve as the Lusitania sailing in the middle of the First World War –despite warnings by the German Empire’s Admiralty. Why not solve the real, self-evident problems that we have before us?

This is an age of such technological wizardly at its potential; is it not possible that, more than perhaps any other historical point; to solve these? This treatise contends with those who have given up to profit maximise in the short term; caring nothing for their impact –and the externalities among them. It advocates action; whether passive resistance; changing our ways; boycotting polluters; petitioning polluters… rebelling… protests… even revolution. This can be backed up by education; providing ideas; inspiration; guidance and support to each other… and social networking. It includes demanding that leadership and globalisation is either made to work for us and the planet; to adopt the reforms of these and their ideas of others; to save our civilisations and achievements now… before it is too later. Or they surrender power, control and resources to those initiatives; movements; populace and leadership with the vision; the talent; the hope; energy and potential to believe and to make the Century of Storms and Climatic Chaos into a true Ecological Age –and Parnassus –where everything is balanced –The Dune Approach. (Check out reality if

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you don’t believe these words. Are the problems not getting worse? Are they not multiplying exponentially and intensifying?)

Remember this; we are part of an integrated ecosystem dependent upon the continuance –of far more species than we might expect. The stark truth is that we could have never survived without the elemental Gaia. Existence itself would be impossible and we would regress rapidly if we contemplated such actions. It is time we as humans remembered this –before being so stupid and short-sighted. Besides; it cannot be denied that we only have one world of our own –and only one to get to. Mars has taken 50 years after the lunar landing and still no humans have been there. Is this not sobering enough to realise that the probability of our survival is fragile –infinitesimal at best; without stuffing it up even more? One of the greatest of miracles and mysteries is how against the laws of nature”; physics and given human psychology itself, we have survived the highly improbable amid a significant degree of improbability. Look at the gargantuan compendium of problems. How much progress are we as humans really making? Are we not just repeating the same problems… with the same proposed solutions; scarcely daring to consider something different, even when it is clearly necessary?

We coexist in the Macrocosmos –or perish! We are faced with few alternatives. Our existence; is one fraught with chances in a planet of ever fewer opportunities to rectify the catastrophic mistakes of our species. We live in a planet of few options; when Gaia presents us with the ultimate decision or face the ultimate conflict; the ultimate quintessential challenge. Remember; that although scholars of the past refer to a great swarm of extinction that virtually wiped out all life; the planet was able to prevail. It only took most creatures with it and millions of years to recover. But this time not only are the chances of survival correspondingly less (for obvious reasons for all species including humanity; this time our planet may be completely sterilised or radiated… Just ask the crocodile, the tuatera or the coelacanth about the other species; as some of the few survivors of the past. But given the fact that we are far more vulnerable than cockroaches and parasites; caution is advised especially as we dominate and exploit the planet the most of many species (which is not an impressive statistic to quote proudly…) We can either ignore our planet and let it subsume us. Or we can start to pledge our unwavering and unconditional loyalties via a perpetual Oath of Allegiance; that surely our planet incontestably deserves after having made it possible for us to be alive in the first place? We can start to serve; with pride in Earth and in ourselves; to take on the privilege and the responsibility as conservators and curators; rather than engineers of mutually assured obliteration. Perhaps at this epic junction of climate shifting to embark on a compendium of ecological literacy is necessary to illuminate others into the imperative of ensuring our own threatened survival is guaranteed.

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When will there be an approach to identify this? When will globalisation and secularism face the reality of a ticking time bomb –set to detonate at any pivotal moment? Can we really afford to violate the only planet we have ever managed to charter and even be on? Can we really afford to desecrate its sanctity and the Gods themselves? Can each of us really afford the pernicious act of ultimate self-deception and self-indulgences; that actions or inaction; have consequences? Can we really afford this extravagant complacency; in irrevocably defiling the Aether; Oceanos and Gaia? Ask that before we curse and blaspheme, in the ultimate treason or heresy, creating infidelity to primeval procreation itself. Ask that of oneself before undertaking each act of profanity that violates the purity of the natural world. Inquire of oneself; what are the ramifications of this action? Is it valid? Is it necessary? And can the effects on the environment be mitigated and offset –even by saving a species, planting or growing a replacement; improving efficiency; recycling; renewing etc? And then seek to ask that of others? See if they can justify such ways –to yourself; to the planet; to those powers and loyalties they believe them; but also to themselves? Besides is there any possible reason at all; why endorsing ecological literacy and seeking a more harmonious life; with other species; with the biosphere and Terra; is incompatible with the lives we seek to experience? Is it incompatible with; the principles and conscience which guide us? Does it contradict that which we believe in –or anything else which we prize?

Why not prioritise environmentalism? After all; nothing else combines synergy with self-interest. There is no alternative solution that will enable those among us who are merely self-interested and working to self-advantage; to retain even a prime fraction of what so many of us currently flaunt so ostentatiously and extravagantly. The planet needs a new method, a new ethos, new energy and new solutions to put Earth first. When doing anything; we should consider the implications on the terrestrial/celestial biomass and the natural system. They should receive first attention; in affecting us all. Perhaps then we might learn something from our mistakes. Perhaps we might benefit in learning from others. If we cooperate in ideas and reciprocate –sharing; we may be able to forge the collaboration and alliance of mortals. This Ecological Coalition could work to be constructive, balanced forces… not just parasites; rather than just depending upon Gaia; the Immortals and other living species to do it for us.

Why are humans so quick to zealously espouse certain planets in space exploration and all manner of principles; philosophies and causes - but so passive and pacifist when concerning their planet? Above all given our various terrestrial history as a species; why are we so reluctant to commit and act? Why be prepared to surrender? Why abdicate responsibility for all our ecological problems and lack of natural stability; to others? Surrender and Abdication cannot be answers –unless we have given up. Unless we voluntarily forfeit Elpis –the Spirit of Hope; who above all else; remained to keep humanity 29

company when Pandora unleashed her curiosity. But Elpis can only leave with our permission, when we truly give up. Yet that appears to be the answer of the current mediocrities which the governments of the most powerful and wealthiest nations of this planet consist of. So, with all this in mind; given the failure of secularism and contemporary politics to achieve any meaningful change then where shall we turn for salvation? To the new religion of science and technology? And there has been little progress as too many are still preoccupied with material wealth, vices, ordinary circumstances and trivia rather than that of the quality of life being and existence; Such hypocrisy; when they care more for short-term profits over long-term profits, plus the chance to live and continue.

How can mortals be so cruel as to let other species flounder? It is not inconsistent to let species perish in order for others to survive in the process of nutrition/self-defence etc. whilst rescuing those who would not perish and would germinate without humans. This includes whether it is saving trees from a bulldozer or insects and amphibians from unnatural swimming pools. It interferes in the ecosystem far less to let them survive -especially when many of the dangers faced by other species are not natural but artificial –from human actions; thoughts and doctrines. However; to let so many humans populate the world and to cause irreparable mutilation and atrocities –at the expense of the planet, cannot be good for the survival of any semblance of any ecological equilibrium. It is an imperative issue to conserve the scarce/finite resources remaining until climate change no longer threatens all species on our homeworld.

The world can be divided into 2 –those who can –and those who cannot. It is separated into those who will and those who will not. Only we can decide which kind of being we want to be. Do we seek to be proactive or to be reactive, blaming others; when in reality if we contribute nothing; we are all doomed in the ever-closer end. Let’s face it –we are nearly as guilty and somewhat hypocritical. In a new world based on an ecological Parnassus, only the eco-minded will be rewarded with the privileges of life and the other virtues of a decent environment. The others must pay; especially the biggest polluters/ government commercial violators; toadying media and sycophantic academics as well. Only those who are prepared to take responsibility for their actions enough to rescue a drowning creature from perishing; equally deserve saving from an abnormal fate conceived by humanity –not the individuals concerned; not those of other species, nor that of the Gods themselves...

It is time for us to choose for ourselves; who we want to be. With so many protests and uprisings and given the overzealous response by those in power; the world is coalescing into two forces. There are those of globalisation who support it and its potential and those who are beginning to oppose and defy it for failing them. We can determine for ourselves

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–do we wish things to remain as they are i.e. to get worse; to fully endorse globalisation as it is? After all it remains spectacularly inept in solving our problems and not listening to us? We can seek to reform it as supporters, to avoid the fates of those who defy it. But this means really seeking to try and make it more responsible. It means aiming to persuade it to use its powers to do something about the environment and the other consequences –economic, social; political or otherwise. Or we can take the even more heroic and audacious task; of defying them. This means joining the fight to reform our planet; to coordinate the uprisings and become the progenitors of a New Ecological Age and Revolution in which we come together and actually undertake to listen and work with each other to save us all, confronting our problems and the realities we face.

We can be prophets who envision a new epoch based on ecological resurrection –one which encompasses every part of the globe. We have to inveigh against materialism because we challenge the concept of profligate waste and squandering of resources that globalisation in this and the previous centuries have constantly championed. Ecologically valuable terrain ought to be worth more than industrial or luxury penthouse land. With future predicted issues of food security; agricultural land should enjoy higher value too... Think about it logically: Which ought to be worth more? That which contributes to the quality of life and which ensures that we can live; exist; thrive and survive? Or the constant yearning materialist cravings that are never satisfied? Do we wish to remain briefly ruling our materialist binges among the radioactive wastes and sparse vegetation –oblivious to the dying gasps of a fast wilting, planetary ecosystem incapable of supporting any life from conspicuous consumption without conservation? So why; when it has failed; is this; the vision the world seeks to foster as the mirage, epitome and epiphany of economic development and growth, as a model for the Second and Third World to copy?

We seek pro–ecological alternatives. They have to exist and they do. We do not seek to attempt the impossible – merely the sustainable possible. We are not against growth if it is balanced and sustainable. The question though; is what can we do to mitigate our actions as there is so much that can be done; but isn’t. For every resource; extracted –it needs to be replenished ten – or even hundredfold to account for aeons of brutal indifference; callous neglect and atrociously high attrition rates. We should require all commercial and technical products to be recyclable where actually possible. Customers should be able to return their goods when purchasing upgrades. Manufacturers should offer them a partial cash incentive for doing so and then recycle new products out of these old resources; wherever possible. It is pathetic not to do something when globalisation has proclaimed the empowerment and emancipation of consumers, enabling them to exercise sovereignty against producers, retailers; distributors and governments –s part of the electorate. Otherwise; we will literally drown an ignorable and debased death from our overflowing landfills and beaches stacked with derelict and obsolescent vessels. With 31

those in surplus why construct more only for it not all to be used and much of it to be wasted? The continued pace of material consumption cannot last! Only by terrestrial revitalisation; recycling and research; can we create a tangible; visible and certain future for ourselves and for all.

The essence of material capitalism is that nothing is ever enough! Nothing can be ever enough because how would corporations continue to extract abnormal profits based on many people’s materialist cravings? Nor are many things made to last. For such is the conflict of interests for immediate profits. Little is recycled and most things go to waste as stated. This is a cycle that has continued for the Age of a ruling Humanity but cannot endure. The planet is already protesting at the amount we discharge as effluence. Admittedly; consumption is necessary for our survival. But currently the rates of the First World and their aspirant followers in the Second and Third Worlds; will consume the planet. The affluent consume too much to their own detriment. Evidence points to the aspiring consumerists in-debt and impoverish themselves; in sacrifice to this cult. Crime abounds and perpetuates because of it. Vices are exaggerated in pursuit of materialism–as hedonism flourishes, while the poor are deprived of the necessities of life. Where is the balance? Is this really such a proud achievement? However; unless the culture of eternal materialism as the “Global Dream “to follow radically changes and soon; of our own free volition –our planet will end it; of her own account.

How useful is all the technology in the world if it cannot solve the problems facing humanity on this planet and in this era? To identify the major problem is too obvious: The continued aeon old, desecration of the planet to the point where the very conditions capable of supporting biodiversity along with the life and welfare of all life forms on this planet, are not only uncertain but are threatened for their very survival. Globalisation continues to shove more technology as the purported solution. But it cannot provide ecological security or certainty, equilibrium; stability; enlightenment; resurrection from mass extinction or fabricate an entirely new planet. It is simple to prove this. If they can; then why have they not? Why do all those that believe that the current status quo; leadership and polluting ways such as our addiction to coal; oil and petroleum; fast junk food etc. deserve to continue; have to say about the ecological crisis? The technology that does have the potential to save us; receives a fraction of the resources; publicity; attention and propagation that conventional polluting ways face. This is regardless over much vaunted theories about consumer sovereignty, the wonders of technology, democracy, social media and the erroneous doctrine of market power; supply and demand through Adam Smith’s invisible hand for optimal resource allocation and production. If the world of globalisation was so benign and those who can influence the research priorities of universities; states and the private sector… were so benevolent; then those realms of knowledge, especially in science and technology –would work to save the environment -32

out of self-interest. Out of pragmatic survival they would work to reduce the pain and suffering of other species; to enhance the quality of life; to reduce the calamitous effects of humanity. Far more would not simply insist on business as usual but vow to make existing and future products/technology more efficient. They would concentrate on solutions rather than on compounding the problems or mere palliatives. But they don’t… and I question: Why?

The nature of materialism with technology; as with anything else is that it is never enough. People keep on upgrading their mobiles, vehicles, electronic gadgets/ household appliances; without stopping to think about; what might happen to all the old technology; just cluttering up the landfills of the world. The same could be said with the ascendency of the globalisation penchant for fast food takeaways –to cite the culprits of Macdonald’s; Burger King; Pizza Hut; mail order catalogues etc. Junk food and junk mail contributes nothing. Excess paper; containers; wrappings; packaging layers etc serve no purpose except to waste even more resources as with most advertising and marketing Just think –how much of that stuff is potentially recyclable but isn’t. People could compact and recycle garbage more. But thoughtlessly disposing is easier…

If materialism and multinational corporate capitalism was so wonderful then why can they not design products of quality that do not last? Nature and natural materials/ resources are more durable in form and existence (if not in supply). The quality is less likely to fade or tarnish. Especially with outsourcing to countries such as China, we will never have truly satisfying products of sufficient quality that are biodegradable; organic; composed of recyclable material; renewable energy or at least nominally consider that the environment isn’t perpetual and eternal. There are exceptions but only unless we pay far higher prices to be reassured that we are being sensitive as members of society and as consuming human beings. The nature of conspicuous consumption contravenes the essence of thrift; sustainability and satisfaction; as things last less and less. This is kind of like the life expectancy projected of most species, which one day humans alone; seem destined to annihilate. Can any other species be pointed as singularly contributing to the extinction of any one species, let alone millions?

Further dangers of globalisation including the conscious or subconscious blocking of ourselves to face environmental attrition and other realities. Few of us like to admit the harshness of the reality and problems that face us. However; if we ignore the retribution too and the lessons from the misfortunes of the ecological history; terraforming and other undertakings that have tarnished our self-proclaimed sovereignty over the planet… then there really is no way out for us. It’s as if so many of us are trying to subscribe to globalisation at the expense of the planet; because it provides a means of shielding us; from the horrors of globalisation; that directly or indirectly; we are responsible for. If the

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price is a planet and their ultimate existence –who cares; as long as we appear to be benefitting from it now? This wilfully minded; obstreperous and extremely short-sighted thought process will ensure that we are unprepared.

Further hazards of materialism lie in the attitude towards the planet, of treating it as a disposable commodity existing merely for our sake. One of the fundamental issues to contend with humanity–is that we have quite simply had it too easy. We have no challenges we wish to truly gamble everything and believe in. Many of us seek no reason to conserve what we have, whether or not we value it –or have any gratitude and sympathy at all. After all; most people think: “Why should we?” The peculiar thing is; there are so many compelling reasons why we should… The more we go without and the more we restrain ourselves and sacrifice, the more we can actually appreciate what we have. The most capable remedy for the curse of affluenza that inhibits the rich; the poor quality of life that assaults the masses and the apathy; indolence; contempt and other issues that result from our detrimental attitudes to the planet and our lives – is to wake up.

This means to recognise reality and the horrors of the world we are in. It resolves in determining to recognise the problem… and to do something about it! The more we do –the more contribute to a great cause. The more we find to define; shapen and fabricate our existence, improving what we can; doing what we can and will. This means seeing not just the tangential but the physical effects as well; the more we will be rewarded. Not just with the advantages of conservation; the way of Gaia; improved environment; a more sustainable economy; improvements in knowledge; health; welfare and relationships with ourselves and other species; we will gain purpose; meaning; direction and a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in doing something for ourselves. We will acquire this in contributing and participating for ourselves rather than just being a voyeur –detached from life, merely spectating others. It means more than just observing life through a banal filter of globalisation or virtual reality that denies you physical contact with your planet and Universe. This more than almost anything else one could contemplate; is achievable for every human being on the planet. This more than anything; makes it possible to know what it means to be alive.

The planet has provided so much for us without apparently seeming to seek much in return. This is the fallacious view infecting most that viewing it as inevitable and natural. We take it for granted if sufficiently well off to enjoy benefitting from the rape and charnel house. Fine; but the question I wish to pose to our detractors

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–is this: ‘Are they quite finished with this world?” “Are they willing to pay the price and to sacrifice? “Are they willing to have every aspect of their lives and reality, all their assumptions; their materialism… everything they feel confident; capable; reassured; trusted and secure about; are they perfectly desirous to have all these gashed and eviscerated into oblivion? This includes those who aren’t bothered about the repercussions of the world Whether through their actions or through the uncertain results of a wounded, incensed Gaia and the capriciousness of the vengeful deities who watch over this planet and all who dwell upon it, these will crumble. Life and the Terra that we knew, will be no more assured to anything approaching the potential for Paradise that still could exist on this planet –if we really wished it to be. If we haven’t really thought about it, perhaps now is the time and opportunity to do so. For no one can predict what will happen. But it is evident… that we will face overarching uncertainty if nothing else. We already remain as victims already reeling from “future shock” and so many other problems of globalisation. Are we willing and are we prepared/ capable of gazing and resolving those that we have already without them being made more complicated?

An ecological transformation can only be achieved by considering the ways of transforming the will of all stakeholders on this planet who continue to obstruct any substantial; rather than tangential metamorphosis towards a more ecologically aware; balanced and harmonious world environment. The poor seeing fewer benefits from considering ecological conservation –understandably view it as an indulgent luxury for the rich who can afford to have ethical considerations not so concerned with cost and intermediate survival from poverty. They have even less incentive to conserve the planet –an area most environmental treatises ignore. Until they are persuaded and incentivised to do something about their planet, any reforms by governments; NGO’s; academics; corporations and individual middle classes and affluent will be truly insignificant; compared to the ecologically unconcerned majority. Many remain silent upon environmental ethics and conservation; even when their poverty will compel them to face the worst consequences of the collective hostility towards our planet; other species and the Elementals (and their consequent; perfectly natural and justified wrath). Only when a comprehensive strategy is universally endorsed by the world, (perhaps in a pan–national entity –along the lines of a United Nations agency) is formed to coordinate and manage the joint response and initiative of all members of the planet will this work. It involves sanctioning economically and politically/socially/culturally censoring those who do not follow this. Reform can be meaningful if based on this treatise and other blueprints to resolve our plight –especially environmentally. This is so that as all members of the human race we will do whatever it takes to ensure her welfare, health; prosperity; equilibrium and ecstasy as ours…

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CHAPTER 2: Secularism: Initiating our Extinction:

Secularism can never be a brilliant idea for an ecological based approach to our planet. By denying the sanctity of Gaia; the influence, omnicogniscence, omnipotence and sentience not only reeks of ingratitude, it is one of foolishness... Take away belief -in the planet; in global warming; in climate change by entertaining them; ignoring it or trivialising it; focussing on petty reforms rather than anything significant and the task of reform confronting the human race becomes monumentally more harmful and even more impossible. Believing in something is a significant part of our species. The current age which has alienated true spirituality –the principles –lessons –guidance and healing that it can teach us; has led the human race to into initiating our own extinction. Those who no longer believe in something spiritual are unlikely to demonstrate any adherence to the

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planet itself or to the cause of conservation. It therefore becomes far more impossible to try and recruit them; despite the pressing necessity of doing so for all our sakes…

So, how does it initiate our extinction?

The problems of science; secularism and the world –that they believe in virtually nothing of any tangible substance. This includes actual projects and case studies which focus directly on the most pressing needs of humanity and to advance us. Nothing has immediacy or priority, unless it yields short term profit; prestige –a coveted award; a job elevation; a peer reviewed article or some form of publicity/award or material subsidy from it. Few truly seem to believe in desiring change on a planetary scale. I have personally contacted over 25,000 prominent individuals and organisations to no effect. Few seem to believe or desire change especially environmental. Both the secularist political, economic and the scientific leadership of Social – Secular/Scientific Darwinism suffer the same problem of the rest of the world. This is the ultimate tumour of postponing the major problems and attempting to solve them.

They would blithely advocate that we do nothing –or only, token, cosmetic reform. How are reducing plastic bags and banning straws supposed to address the Five Great Global Garbage Patches and humanity’s true plastic addiction? Compare this to the environment, which as an anthromorphism –in addition to those divine spiritual and natural forces which are part of this Multiverse. These have sought for us to have the resources; capacities, blessings and other miraculous gifts that make life; prosperity and the contentment of all species ever to have potentially existed possible as a reality. They strive for an ecologically optimal threshold population magnitude without compromising the planet’s capacity to help future/ subsequent generations or our chances of averting extinction. That is why it is imperative to have faith and confidence in them. Certainly they have done nothing or little to dissuade that trust in comparison to the horrors and perversions of globalisation and its servitors of science; technology and materialism.

What does this secularist apathy really foretell for humanity?

Secularists cannot be bothered in providing environmental alternatives in technology –in nothing more than a prototype/ experimental basis. They cannot wean us off the enslavement to oil; fossil fuel power etc even when entire nations such as the Cook Islands are implementing 100% renewable energy by 2020. They cannot commit themselves in their personal life or in public; about setting an environmental example –that the rest of the world can admire and follow. The truth is simple. It needs to be admitted as it has yet to be convincingly refuted! So why do the current global leadership deserve the power and attention that foolishly they were granted; when they care neither for the welfare of their voters (except during election campaigns) or for the welfare of their own planet? They 37

have the power and the mantle. Why do they not use it? They have failed us –that much is self-evident! To that; they do not deserve the allegiance and obsequious deference granted to them; as the so-called leaders; visionaries; prophets and vanguard of the Age of Globalisation. Examining their ulterior motives, many are apologists and paid corporate lobbyists for the non-environmentalist; pro materialist cause... that most of them are (explicitly or implicitly) seem to advocate as manners of public policy. How can we trust those that serve as hypocrites? How can we trust; whose principles we do not know. ( It is better to have ones you disagree with; than none?)

This treatise recants globalisation and secularism because they are all consuming; not all creating! They lack equilibrium and control; the redeeming features and blessings of Gaia Consider what they do produce in the manner of tress; hardship; sacrifice; an increasingly destitute planet; phenomenal uncertainty; malevolent chaos; the curse of affluenza; barren waste; pain; suffering etc. These scarcely seem worth it! They voraciously guzzle all without balance –in a perpetual; gluttonous orgy. They are incapable of exerting self-restraint and basic discipline, persecuting those who oppose them –rather than trying to live with them… They are unsustainable. Virtually anyone who is conscious and sentient –even those who zealously are engulfed with irrational zealotry towards their own planet; who seek to exploit; pillage and rape as much as possible –or even those masses who passively contribute to the planet’s downfall by doing nothing to avert its decline realise this…

They know it cannot continue but seek to exploit it while they can. Or more precisely –while they can get away with it. They know that the rest of society; the government; the media; individuals and others will continue to allow them to get away with it. They will be able to exploit and take our resources and wrack our planet for free or minimal cost. They then profit by making us pay a premium price for the resource or for the effects. So we eventually end up paying anyway, whether or not we benefit from it. Such is the nature of an externality. We realise that in the world of humans who are self-interested –the profit incentive, profit or greed are instinctive. But we believe that whoever has influence over a resource –one of the elements or minerals or a plant/ animal organism etc ought to be responsible for managing it efficiently. This involves ensuring that it is sustainable/ replaceable; conservable with a future with minimal disturbance on the welfare, health and survival of any species. For us; we believe in seeking the ecological balance or believing in nature. Gaia and the Elementals alone will determine whether the planet can heal itself, especially if humanity is bent on destroying it…

The Dune Approach will seek to rectify our mistakes –in the most ecologically vulnerable areas. It entails seeking to minimise the human impact to the best of our capacity; to concentrate on ecological literacy and planetology as among the most essential priorities

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facing us collectively as a sentient race. It seeks to expand across the solar meridian of Helios; our species is consigned within across the Spiral Arm. This is in order to focus our species on the ultimate discoveries and challenges facing us; whilst relieving pressure upon our own hapless planet. It spurns the neglect of our terrestrial mass and other species as one lacking forethought and foresight. One day; it can be prophesised with certainty; approximating the great Delphic Sibyl herself. We will pay -in full… All the natural disasters; human chaos; strife; extinctions; meteorological cataclysms and other hearkening harbingers are merely the accumulated compound interest; as intermediate repercussions before the final tallying… This time though, there will be no escape; no appeal and even worse… no future…

People too often serve as hypocrites. So many argue that human life is sacred –and then fail to value it. The same could be said of their attitude towards the planet. This tome does not aspire to preach perfection or to preach at all. It merely desires us not to be so hypocritical towards the environment; so many profess to value, even as they fail to change anything at all. Why not try? How can this terrestrial orb we inhabit; not be worth saving? Is there anything more sacrosanct than the planet which gave us life? No; there can be nothing else as a human being; not a machine! Surely; it makes sense to prioritise the conservation of our planet when we only have one? Even those belligerents who prefer rampaging war, can they not see –how vulnerable our species is on this one planet alone? To quote the old cliché; humanity is putting all its eggs in one basket and then we are doing our best to incinerate and disentangle that basket – each fabric and every fibre. At the very least; we should be prioritising the colonisation of space. This means using our planet to acquire more space and resources on further worlds; asteroids and lunar satellites. We ought to acquire more minerals before it is too late. It is out there. We are confined here… There are a billion worlds – each full of infinite possibilities… Why deplete this resource further? If we have to leave such an inerasable impact upon the universe; could we not at least attempt to do so upon a different planet? Our future could be one which our technological potential and learning from past mistakes could combine to create a new community capable of living with itself and with the planet?

Have we ever considered the world – and I mean; really considered it; and our impact –in all its manifestations? Have those of secularism ever considered in aeons of humans spreading their anti–eco forms of attempted domination in the names of various purported ideologies and civilisations; our impact upon the planet –or the planet first? We haven’t up to and including the present; exactly prioritised our planet, have we? First; it was most of the world’s religions that saw this world as unimportant; merely as a means of providing resources solely for humanity. Now evolution and Darwinism dogma; claim still; that we are superior to other species. They infer therefore; somehow... we have the right to also siphon off resources at the expense of the rest of the planet and our future as 39

a species. They mirror the same arguments used by monotheists. But both ignore basic reality constraints that prevent so much more. These will continue to inhibit our potential –ever spiralling catastrophes thanks to our flawed interventions…

Secularism initiates our extinction because it provides a skewed justification for our actions. Too many of us are deluded into arrogant assumptions thanks to evolution that we are more advanced –and special than the rest of the inhabitants on our planet. This is despite our poor ecological track record. Not to belittle our achievements but we have yet to communicate well enough to discover the achievements of others that may as yet; dwarf our own. Secularism blinds us not just to the divinity but the beauty and uniqueness –the miracle that is our world and the process of life itself. Often it believes Home to be nothing special when sifting it down to the simplest elements. No wonder so many are irreverent; apathetic – even contemptuous and hostile to all that is natural and to the pursuit of conservation itself. Additionally; in not believing in our planet or fully grasping that we are planetary curators. (Hey we chose to dominate all life forms we have live up to the responsibilities of the mess we created). By promoting only cosmetic reforms at best; we have allowed the environment to deteriorate to the point of ecological collapse; We face exponential climatic phenomena with greater destructive impetus and where, the future of all is at risk.

Secularism denies the imperative of our planet arguing that more mundane things need precedence. Why; what could be inspiring, worth discovering, valuing and prioritise than this planetary miracle? What else could sustain us and benefit us, heal, illuminate and animate to the same degree as our planet? Can there be anything else? Do we have time to bicker and squabble with petty concerns that preoccupy our lives daily, when there is a most real and urgent peril awaiting us? When things lack a spiritual/religious experience –when people lack belief; faith; passion; empathy; creativity; inspiration etc. This then becomes equivalent to viewing the planet in a transcendental experience; in not thinking about the planet so. We risk too much by ignoring it; as the current atheist dogma and secular politics do in the global plutocratic system of governance – (First; Second or Third). Then they cannot be called a really organic; sentient entity that knows life, is passionately committed to it –and is at one with themselves and their habitat/ecosystem…

Besides seriously; one has to interject here. Have you looked at how trivial most of humanity’s issues are? How many of them really are petty and not worth stressing about? As humans we like to worry. Let’s stop wasting so much frazzled energy and frayed nerves on this trivia and focus on some real challenges. After all; the environment affects everything, every single part of everything that we have ever achieved. I would think; -although I am not so sure about you, that the environment is one of our foremost mistakes –and challenges of this era to resolve. Prioritising space is also beneficial in this. In both

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we could reduce all the issues and chaos caused by human conflict –war; strife and chaos; by retargeting resources from the armed forces of the world towards these two objectives. Then there are the religious implications. The Way of Gaia as an environmental philosophy (explored later on) concentrates on the values and gifts we can learn from our planet… Believing in our matriarch Gaia –anthromorphic and so much more; in addition to whatever else we might believe in; serves as a way of countering the impact of secularism and materialism. These remain in denying us; what we as a species and what we as individuals not only desire but actually; really need…

The demise of secularism has led to an uprising of esoteric ideas; myths; beliefs; cults and other evident desires for an alternative spiritual source of meaning; guidance and sustenance. People seek mysticism in preference to the hollow void left behind by a feckless science. However; why scrabble around in the often-futile yearning for such substitutes for the demise of organised religion when each of us –whether individually or collectively –as a community; as a society; as a state; as a planet of human beings… can find ourselves a much more accessible; simpler and more wondrous mystery to behold… -that of natural life? Pantheism –finding belief; hope; confidence; reassurance and the other benefits of spirituality; religion, psychology, ethics; philosophy and a hale environment. This credulously trusting in the biosphere of biodiversity. In looking after the planet; adhering to natural laws and the constraints of our planet; in reversing and repairing our assaults is far more potent, is supported by history itself and experience… wherever and whenever; any truly dare to savour the world for themselves. All it takes is to walk freely in an environment avoiding the intrusions and contamination of human beings as much as possible. This is even and especially if it is just you in a secluded garden, beach or forest; a park, a nature reserve or one of the tracts of wilderness/ natural wonders of the world –geographical; celestial or natural….

The Way of Gaia demonstrates an alternative source of belief for all human beings. We all need to dream and believe in something, even those of us –who are atheist… For if we do not believe in anything –especially our planet… we are doomed! There is nothing fundamentally harmful that derives from Gaia –who has only looked out for the best interests of all species. The ecological constraints, diseases, conditions; perils and disasters that she uses, all illustrate this to remind us of our hubris, -that we are mortal. This is for our own sake as well as the sake of other species threatened by us. It reminds us of the fragility of our natural heritage, its scarcity and value. But ultimately that there are consequences to our actions; that our decisions actually have repercussions and there is a price/ opportunity cost to be paid, are only a few of the basic lessons to recall. But all of us could learn from ecological literacy the most fundamental and necessary lessons of which so many of us have not fathomed and memorised: how to live with other species; how to co-exist with our planet synergistically and how/ why we need to value it. They prompt us 41

to refrain from our species’ predilections of arrogance; subjugation; domination and belligerence.

Secularism no longer appreciates or values the many things which we learn from our planet. The Way of Gaia; as the basis on an environmentalist philosophy; the Dune Saga with its aims of planetology and ecological literacy and other sections further affirm this. The very basis of globalisation is about accelerating urbanisation and modernity –imposing a universal; uniform culture that has no place for those elements which actually involve true connections with our planet. When is enough… enough? Why don’t we ever learn from our past or from others who could teach us a better relationship? No one has time or patience let alone the capacity to listen and to learn from the Khoi; those tribes of the Highlands of New Guinea; the Amazon and the pygmies of Central Africa; the archipelagos of Oceania; and the others who remain to view their environment as sacrosanct –something more than just an immediately harvestable resource.

How about being humble enough to learn from those gifted with a greater potential to synchronise with their surroundings; to balance consumption and extraction –and to manage a comparatively far more melodious existence and relationship with species? And no… I am not talking about humans or those species who have become dependent upon them –their natural behaviour considerably modified. Examples include pets; laboratory test animals; those in zoos and aquariums etc. I am talking about us being humble enough to learn from other species that know how to be at peace with themselves; but also with the ecosystem and our Matriarch. This also extends to those campaigners and activists that protest intrepidly on behalf of the powerless, vulnerable, voiceless and us all. For none of us –even the richest and most influential will be spared from the effects. Too often they are treated as a joke, where the media and authorities. Consequentially the public fail to take them seriously too often. Or even worse, they are hounded and treated as diabolical criminals. Yet it is they who are espousing the noblest; virtuous and most necessary of causes –society and the rule of law/the state should theoretically support them. Although our track record with our planet has been dubious (one of ingratitude throughout generations); at least by believing in something, we are better than anti-Earth nihilists. Like those who followed religions in the past, we can reverse this. But only if we act NOW! We must not seek to dither and prevaricate –enough stalling. Where did waffling in the history of the world achieve anything monumental? Action alone affirms one’s ultimate sincerity of convictions in anything…

By believing in our planet –and in championing the ultimate cause; as this treatise proposes; it gives us something to believe in that is worth believing in. We can overcome uncertainty, failure, doubt, scepticism, sorrow, wrath, apathy, resignation. We can overcome those that threaten to displace us from our relationship to the world and our

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place within it. Only a fool; the ignorant or those deprived of their common sense and other faculties would deny these and other effects of globalisation and secularism; which so many activists protesting these have so clearly identified. The planet is blessed, sacred and definitely worth believing in. Regardless of religion or anything else that divides us too often as humans, Gaia our terrestrial Matriarch is the one elemental thing (apart from space–the quintessential core that defines us). This is the most elementary and universal of truths. It cannot be denied how the planet provided a healthy environment; learning to live in equilibrium and other priceless, precious gifts that Gaia bestows upon us. Our ecosystem often merely wishes in exchange that we appreciate her and respect our limits –without exploitation causing irrevocable; permanent damage, even by our opponents. We would therefore pose the question to them: Why? Why could you possibly want to sever this link/connection? Why are you so determined to be so short-term orientated in your self-advantage; when the cost is not worth it… and you yourself; will face the same problems that we will face…

Given how few, all too few, things that are that bind us; we should crystallise this tenuous link that we have through which we are part of the formation of the web of life. Besides, believing in Gaia shows that we are not alone, we need not be afraid. There is a force that through its nurturing nature and selfless, unconditional altruism is concerned with balancing terrestrial and celestial force. This is in addition to the other diving Elementals that not only made our planet and universe miraculously exist but our species and everything else as well. If nothing else, surely we could learn from the existence of such as history –Magistra Clio and Chronus of Time himself bear witness to such easily verifiable truth? All we ask is for an open mind; patience and persistent effort in the struggle to defend the natural world from its assault by those degenerate humans (hrethgar) who are vehemently anti–life. If we work with the planet to mitigate our impact; minimising the disturbance to the Balance as much as possible as the biosphere intended, then we may actually have a chance against them. This is well to work to our own self-advantage with other species. One thing is for certain. If we continue to marginalise… even ignore… or suppress the impact of the planet within our lives, we are doomed. We are initiating our extinction (well deservedly) by being blind and oblivious to reality with nothing but our egos, as the radiation enflames us or the detritus of our own folly more likely deluges and drowns us…

It must be the way we do things or think or fail to that could possibly account for our neglect of our planet and relationship towards Her. Why else the more “civilised” and technologically advanced we become; the more frazzled and ruptured the connection for most… No other species has been dumb enough or callous enough to result in such a disaster; that has the potential to avert life in further generations. Orr at least considerably diminish the health and welfare not just of current members of your species 43

and others-but that of subsequent descendants as well. I invite my critics to think of a counter example. Oh wait; they can’t! No other species has decided to gamble their planet and their future; when faced with such uncertainty and decided to take the rest of all organisms with it. Such lack of preparation and foresight; such lack of consideration towards our actions and our future and we have the audacity to claim some hallowed, divine mandate (whatever faith you believe in for the most part –even Darwinism/ secularist materialism Yet many of our species continue to defend our undisputed right to rule this planet for our sole benefit as a species? People identify the problems but do not change. They are then surprised; wringing their hands; when nothing changes. If anything, the problems propagate and intensify. When the resources and necessities run out what then will we do? (They wouldn’t if we weren’t so capricious enough to prevent a self-sustaining ecological equilibrium. Have our leadership even thought about it? Have they prepared for it? Then really; why have they not illuminated their intentions if so? And if they haven’t; then why ever not?

Where we differ; from other ecological treatises is that; we follow the Gaia hypothesis (supported by English scientist James Lovelock as an exemplar of a negative feedback loops). Like the Ancient Romans and Greeks (paralleled by many faiths/beliefs); we support Gaia –as a breathing; conscious; sentient anthromorphism comprising our planet; as one of humanity’s most decisive Elementals and deities (along with the Olympians). She is an entity whose quintessence and residue dominates the planet. We believe that the empirical evidence to sustain this; is self-evident –given the complexities of the natural ecosystem. Even secularists often have to invoke nature as a substitute to the existence of an omnipotent deity for their hypotheses to make sense at all. Besides; could anything as complex and varied as the natural ecosystem and planet itself just spontaneously emerge into being? Look at human analogies and those of nature to recognise their similarities; to realise that the most sophisticated; intricate; advanced achievements could not have occurred convincingly to the extent it has without such. This is especially given all the anomalies; exceptions and miracles –to have arbitrarily materialised.

Too many variables have to be pinpointed and calibrated perfectly. The system is too complex and all species operate so well to keep it operating in equilibrium. The natural and cosmological forces themselves seem united to keep this and other spheroids capable of life. This is despite influences such as ours constantly meddling; that there are only two plausible explanations appearing to discount secularism. Either the planet itself is alive… as the anthromorphism Gaia, whether or not we can certify or ascertain the definite probability of other deities/ another deity in this Universe that may or may not also be involved. Or the planet is the most complex and elaborate of intricate machines –hat surpasses anything that we have managed ourselves. But that invites the mysteries –of the creation process, which we have theorised on the physical actions of formation (Big 44

Bang and other hypothesises). But it still does not answer all questions including Why?” Either way; we cannot replicate it. We should therefore seek to avoid meddling in actions that we know are not likely to benefit the planet. We must avoid prying where it is not only unnecessary but could irretrievably garble it, until we can comprehend the possible consequences of our actions…

They would have us wait as their indecisive answer to so much uncertainty over the fate of the biodiversity and biomass present. Yet; can we afford to wait? The desolation that human activity has wrought; is no fabled chimera... but very real! This is testified in the melting of polar ice caps; the expansion of the ozone layer; the dearth of species at an ever-increasing rate and the expansion of meteorological anomalies. Examples flourish from Hurricane Katrina in 2005; countless tsunamis in Asia and the Pacific and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The decade 2000 -2009 ranked as the hottest globally since the formation of the International Meteorological Organisation and the 1990’s were also one of the highest –according to its records. It is contested that we need more information and too much is uncertain or random. But; the planet has indicated many times; the effects of human activity that have despoiled; deflowered and desecrated it… We really don’t need any more information to demonstrate that there is a problem. (Only the blind would deny otherwise now CO2 has reached the critical level beyond 400 parts per million –a level not reached since an estimated two million years ago). It might be best for humanity as a whole to wake up and do something about this ecological genocide.

Chapter 3: Countering the Warfare Mentality:

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“Man is endowed with reason and creative powers to increase and multiply his inheritance; yet up until now he has created nothing, only destroyed. The forests grow ever fewer; the rivers parch; the wild life is gone; the climate is ruined and with every passing day; the earth grows uglier and poorer...”

Anton Chekhov (1896) Uncle Vanya, Act I

(Three guesses why...)

What is signalled by the Warfare Mentality?

By this; several points can be noted.

First; there is the pursuit of war not peace. This includes concentrating and prioritising the arms race, which fails to assist humanity in any way whatsoever. What is the point in devoting so many resources to mutually assured destruction? What have we learnt from all this research; resources and investment allocated to this? It is scarcely the most crucial of human problems facing us. Most would agree on that if they had any sense–even if they quibbled over the priorities. This is other than the simple fact that anyone could work out if they sufficiently thought about it for a moment; that it is far easier to destroy than to create? And surely, we have known this ever since the earliest of times? It is curious, if not tragic than rather than seeking to perfect upon what they have, so much of human endeavour is devoted to conflict. This is not just among themselves of course but to drag down other species and the planet itself… We have to retort: Why? What have they ever done to deserve this? Why is humanity’s faculty for inspiration; imagination and creativity unleashed to agents of chaos; misery; pain and destruction. Too many of our species seek to ravage the blessings and treasures received by the natural world, rather than actually devoted to advancing the human race; to improving the health; welfare; prosperity and satisfaction/ecstasy of all species. They choose this or apathy over the chance-to chartering and exploring space; to launching a Renaissance of all Continents; to solving the many challenges that we face before us. They’d rather not turn to mitigating and reversing the human impact on the planet –being economically as well as environmentally efficient –(After all both are within our capacity). Where is the sense in this innate predilection for conflict –I term the Warfare Mentality?

Just try to reconstruct a species or a component of nature –after it has disappeared; (as advocated in the Dune Approach chapter. Or to even envision such a conception and the labyrinthine complexities involved, one has to realise the mind scrambling implications of this. For all our technological prowess and much vaunted superiority; no other species has our disastrous policy when it comes to managing and conserving resources. No other species has single handedly wiped out every other member of just one organic fauna or flora species… let alone others… No other species has polluted the land, oceans, water 46

sources and atmosphere so freely and pristinely bestowed originally by Gaia in this belligerent Warfare Mentality. No other species has coveted minerals; timber and other natural products enough to terraform where ecologically unsustainable; or populate far above natural constraints designed to enable optimal survival rates/populations for all species including our own. No other species is so hypocritical when it comes to claiming that it cares with conservation… but is unwilling to truly do something about it; favouring enslavement; destruction and chaos towards other life forces rather than cooperation and symbiosis. It also says something about the human species. If the human race is supposed to be so rational and brilliant; then why is he or she’s first priority to be merchants of death –peddling strife; dissonance; dissidence and conflict; rather than procreative forces of energy? Why delay rejuvenating their planet and the many problems we collectively; as exclusive and privileged holders of the right to life and sustenance itself possess over sperms…

In fact; the greatest possible application for military technology (apart from perhaps finding a way of culling the surfeit of human demographics “population explosion” –if that were to be a justifiable cause for war. But who decides? The people who justify death -those who show such contempt for other species; our human race and our planet –their rights; life and liberty; –might be the main worthy contenders… but they are often the directors of the warfare mentality seldom the sufferers). Ironically; this is never targeted and applied but devoting martial resources; to Charter the Frontiers of the Macrocosmos… might be one of the only viable solutions; as I shall argue more extensively in my treatise on the Astronautical Odyssey. This is short of overthrowing the existing leadership in an Ecological Revolution -or really fundamentally realigning the entirety of humanity to change. As we have screwed up, wrangled and scrambled the planet so much, that it might be too late for us otherwise; to change what so pressingly and painstakingly must metamorphosize.

Second; there is the ethos of war and conflict not peace; -brilliant to those few who benefit. But who really profits from warfare and strife in the short run or the long run? –least of all the environment. Too many wars are based on self–enrichment, seeking to benefit economically from it –or protecting existing economic benefits. But what exactly is the point of this? Just how exactly has the stalemate in the Middle East or most post-World War conflicts actually served humanity –or actually resolved anything excluding colonial liberation movements)? If there is to be a conflict or a war, why cannot it be based on something worth defending. I.e. if we are; as a species endowed with the warfare mentality; why are we not fighting a struggle –in defence of the environment? Sporadic skirmishes by protesting activists are too feeble to count as a war; uprising or insurrection. They are more of a minor protest/demonstration at best). A war to end future wars may aim to reduce the conflict between humans and their world –that is a war 47

worth fighting for. For this is unquestioningly a “great” –“the Great and Just Cause,” –for the planet is the wellspring of life; the fount of being; the source of all our autarkic system’s requirements. All we get apart from the influence of deities; outside our planet –from the rest of the Universe is Helios the Sun and Selene the Moon. Otherwise the planet and the Gods provide all else to all terrestrial life forms originating from Earth.

Humanity has for all its aggression; not fundamentally changed in an often-inherent innate pathological violence common to so many. It is this destruction that they use on others of their species. That is only natural and not the point of debating contention raised here. In fact; if it weren’t for the often noted historical fact that the fertility rate often increases considerably following the aftermath of a conflict; it might be one solution to resolve the demographic crisis approaching epic scale proportions of humans the planet has faced for the last two centuries. (Often as if to compensate for the deaths and missed opportunities to quote the examples of both World Wars). Humans on their own might be more capable or reducing themselves –more swiftly and systematically than the planet ever could… Just think of Pol Pot; Mao Zedong; Joseph Stalin; Adolf Hitler, Stalin; Field Marshal Haig; Chinese Emperor Qin Shi Hung; Attila the Hun; Genghis Khan etc as ways of reducing the demographic pressures on the environment. Therefore perhaps perpetual conflict and the warfare mentality might have been an acceptable solution that involves humans. But they need to be selected and reassessed on the basis of being irredeemable, anti-environmentalists; uncooperative governments; corporation and others who doggedly and pugnaciously inhibit reform/unwavering polluters; guzzlers; consumers; rapists and plunderers of the planet. These include those who torment other species. Somehow it would need to spare those who have nothing whatsoever to do with any conflict –as the warfare mentality is not a fundamental and timeless aspect of their nature; in contrast to many humans…

What we; who are not speciest and who believe in environmentalism need as a reality to achieve and experience to behold; rather than just some mindless words on a page that are quickly skimmed for. They make a momentary impact on a perceptive reader who responds appropriately horrified or incredulous; but then fizzles out. It offers an insufficient spark to ignite this change. What one objects to is where primarily it has an impact upon other species; who innocently suffer from the wrath that humans impose upon each other. Often the repercussions extend to this fragile biosphere often as a by-product. But all too often where the planet is concerned; so many humans are engaged in a warfare mentality; not just against the ecological supporters and revolutionaries; but against the ethos; spirit and the species themselves. Warfare needs to minimise collateral damage and impact. What is wrong with guerrilla warfare; skirmishes and assassinations

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or biological agents rather than chemical/nuclear warfare or alternative ways of concentrating the residue to humans rather than dragging other species? If warfare is to exist as a considered fundamental aspect of human nature; we would argue that it and the strife it embodies should not be planet driven to such an extent…

War enriches a few. It drains our planet seldom to any justifiable purpose; impoverishing humanity and our planet. For all our pent-up aggression; do we ever consider the repercussions to other organisms and ecosystems on this planet? Do we ever consider the ecological costs of warfare throughout the ages –which has had almost as much impact upon the detrimental status of our biodiversity and wilderness/species preservation, when opting for a full war. The Vietnam War is chiefly remarkable and memorable was the US’s decision to deforest the miles of tropical rainforests in Laos; Vietnam and Cambodia –and still lost. For the United States still incapable of winning a war on its own as Afghanistan; Iraq and Operation Black Hawk Down in Somalia 1991-1993 prove). In the end humans have ravaged their environment this and the previous century; more than the rest of recorded human history put together. We are all the worse for it ecologically. But even economically; militarily and strategically; it does not make sense.

Reducing the impact of weapons by focussing on accuracy rather than maximising and cascading the range/ volume of projected warfare would leave more resources behind. These remaining resources could be further utilised to some purpose. This is better to exploit resource utilisation than total pointless destruction -even if it is merely to serve the benefit of the occupying army. Historically; warfare used to concentrate and prioritise resources. In many examples it still remains –i.e. the US foreign policy in the oil rich Middle East. But even concentrating on securing one resource; they often do so at the expense of others. For the military should remember how profitable it can be to concentrate on preserving existing resources for sustainable extraction rather than blitzing and sterilising everything. Anything and everything is a resource they could consider from the air to mineral resources; to pure water supplies; fertile soil; afforestation and food sources. This is not just obvious ones of oil and gold. Unless the point is to follow Reagan’s succinct justification of the USA –USSR arms race in the Cold war despite each being able to sterilise and nuclearize the entire planet; a hundredfold or more of instigating “mutually assured destruction.”

And yet warfare does not have to be exclusive of the environment. Guerrilla warfare involves some degree of conformity of assimilating and using your environment, against foreign interlopers. Most decent defensive military strategies have had to incorporate the environment to one extent or the other. Armed Forces could avoid fighting or training, in parks and other environmentally sensitive zones. Pursuing guerrilla war/biological warfare/assassination limits the effect to humans not to the innocents of the world. We

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are not endorsing the pervasive “Warfare Mentality” but realising the fact that the last 5000 years or longer has been made up of humans precipitating conflict. But without the environment; at least we can focus our efforts and resources to minimising its destabilising efforts on not only myriad innocents of other species but also our atmosphere; soil and aquatic domains. Therefore; a sufficiently varied and preserved terrain needs to remain, not just to prepare those humans who persist in warfare –for whatever reasons but for its own sake –and to prepare ourselves. For only by testing ourselves in a variety of natural environments can we hone our innate abilities and natural potential. This masters attaining any challenges the Gods and the Universe may throw at us. Artificial environments provide this, especially urban, or those polluted and despoiled by humanity cannot. They merely sap our potential vigour, weaken, cripple and feeble –our mental/physical/emotional, spiritual and psychological health. The purer the environment at our disposal… the better…

If wars are considered too essential a part of the human psyche, then let them at least consider the environment more so than they are currently. Every General Staff; every quartermaster and officer; should care about the environment for one simple reason –the issue of cost. The cost of fuel and for energy consumption e.g. in air conditioning; continues to multiply- especially in Afghanistan and Iraq. If the Armed Forces really factored in this expense; then adopting several eco-friendly solutions like those specifically outlined elsewhere; would yield them more resources which they could channel into other areas. Examples include hybrid vehicles or solar tracking powered transport. An example that one contractor designed for the US Army–included mobile wind and solar generators and emergency propane generators. These consisted of a foam inlaid, tent with a thin line of insulating concrete inside. Or they could just add foam insulation to tents as a more efficacious, lightweight; inexpensive and environmentally effective deterrent and more benevolent to the desert dunes, than to the environment.

Third; an extension of this; is that of humanity’s conflict with himself or herself. By spending too much efforts on subordinating ourselves to the constant pressures that the outside world imposes upon us –including an often-frenzied pace; too often; we neglect a part of ourselves. It instigates a fundamental dichotomy between the will we seek to impose upon our mind/body/spirit/soul/emotions and theirs’ upon us, reminding us of our constraints and our all too evident mortality. Why block out a part that has been a historic; necessary part of ensuring acclimatisation, survival and rejuvenation among other benign properties? Why loses this for a featureless waste incapable of providing anything? The conflict with ourselves is not impossible to resolve provided we pay attention to our innate nature and natural form. It’s equally important that we do not make the mistake of believing that we are superior or we can forget. Ignore this elementary form or the characteristics that crystallises who we are; translucently. Too 50

many conflicts that come from humanity; occur from many species often neglecting to master human nature, whether it resides in others –or more often within themselves. Too much strife and dissonance emerge because humankind’s knowledge of himself or herself; has not kept up with his knowledge of the physical world. Why else do we still look to the ancients and the past for confirmation of this?)

The conflict with other species is perhaps the most pernicious. Everywhere humanity seeks to impose its will and perversely seek either to torture; cull or interfere with the lives of as many living organisms as possible, especially those who are doing no harm. Evidence of this is abundant. One only has to look at the array of “pesticides” “insecticides,” rat poisons and other ways of killing animals to realise the undeclared warfare that so many humans have. There are such things as humane mouse traps to release them free in the wild. There are such things as pool nets to prevent too many hapless insects from drowning. There are ways of ensuring other creatures can leave when accidently straying into one’s residence/avert them from entering in the first place. Why not just leave them alone? Most are really innocent, doing little or no harm. Why is euthanasia of humans –for whom we have a great surplus, many of which will suffer just as much as other animals –considered hypocritically morally repugnant reeking of say the Third Reich (Ironically it cared more for animals than humans –banning vivisectionists etc). But it is acceptable to do so to many animals, especially unwanted pets –or pets believing to be suffering. (In the absence of being able to truly communicate with them, how can we make that decision of life and death for them–to which we arrogantly take for ourselves? We have to ask, given our biological similarities as envisioned and destined by Gaia; the Fates and the Elementals… why is human life considered so blessed and sacrosanct. This contrasts in respect to other species; especially when according to such pronounced experts and arch apostles. There is nothing biologically unique that defines our species; granting it greater potential and advantage than any other species; rather than that proclaimed by evolution?

What is to be done? Well for starters; humanity will not be permitted to poison other species so easily. They will not be able to fell trees without legitimate cause. I.e. a structural threat to property/damage to life or other legitimate reason –i.e. storm damage. They will be held personally liable for replacing any trees felled so –financing it personally as an environmental disincentive. We would ban vivisectionists and choose to phase out battery farming. Many can become more organic and other solutions that recognise other species’ rights to welfare; heath and prosperity. We can ensure basic rights even to those that we rely and depend on. They could be treated far more humanely for the existence they do have, while they still have it. Only when these threats to the environment are treated with the same criminal severity that is commonly reserved for general legislation and other perceived threats to society; can we truly claim to exist in a 51

law-abiding civilisation who aims at the welfare of all. If it does not apply to other species; then we lack convincing candour to any declarations of such; that our species might individually and collectively make. It has been stated and remains firm. If you want to truly assess someone, a society, civilisation or a country, look at the way not how it treats its human population but the way it treats other animals and its environment, -especially as there are all too few that are trying….

People are so intolerant at times to contemplating any environmental challenge or reform. They have such difficulty in adjusting to the simple concept that other species deserve the welfare and attention. They view as heretical, treatment as a partnership of equals –in symbiosis at the very least, which other species deserve to be entitled to just as much as most humans expect. Whom in all honesty; thinks of other species as fundamentally equal in birthright; in entitlement and in liberties as humans themselves –if not more so? If they did; their actions would reflect this far more consciously then they are doing so at the moment. In extension; this often applies to those poor sods, who often seek to serve as environmental preservers as Crusader Knights valiantly concerned with other species… Why else are states and the public not more supportive to them? Why are they treated as potential criminals? Why are the species and habitats they defend –are discriminated against –and purged –just on the basis of their species? Why are they entitled to no rights of survival or defence; for yet another pointless; eco-guzzling development or produced material for human consumption; denying it to the myriad other organisms dependent on it living… and then serving a greater use in death.

Then; there is humanity’s pursuit of conflict not only with his or her own species but also with the planet. Constantly our mission to “improve” or “civilise” only inflicts the price off destruction on the world we inhabit. The itch to modify our environment and terraform has long being a characteristic of humanity. But it is deteriorating into the ridiculous and the prohibitive. As demonstrated in the “Civilising Instinct” of one’s Treatise on the Properties of Humanity imposes one’s will by terraforming one’s environment far above that necessary to retain current world civilisations… There is simply no need for it –and that is autonomous of its impact on all who call this planet their home. We do not know any others in other galaxies –or even Mars and Venus and they are right next to us… This pursuit of conflict with the planet could be befittingly referred to as the “Eco War” –the war to save our entire planet and all species possible from our folly; hubris and mistakes.

Curiously environmentalists everywhere; are also part of this “Eco War,” whether they are aware of it or not. For it is clear that they are embarked upon a cataclysmic struggle. This wants to fight and struggle for their environment for an eco-friendly world, which actually values and wants to protect the planet. We may finally have woken up to our duties towards the planet; collectively as a species and as individuals. How else would one

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describe; the pent-up belligerence and aggression; rampant hostility and assaults; that anyone protesting in favour of ecological movement and reform; against violations by governments and corporations receives. Consider the standard response to any anti-globalisation or environmental protest. You only have to realise the lies that so many believe about the Western World democracies and how they supposedly safeguard basic human rights and fundamental liberties is a complete and utter lie… It doesn’t matter whether trying to petition; or protest or exercising the illusionary right to demonstrate and assembly (lies enshrined in virtually most of the First World G20’s constitution) or chaining oneself to a tree etc. The standard response of these organisations; companies and governments is to use Tasers to electrify or stun them; rubber bullets, batons, arrests, convictions etc. Its as if they –not the ones they were protesting against; were the true criminals...

Of course it easier to imagine a convenient enemy to blame for your frustrations; resentments, problems and failures, than it is to actually resolve that problem. It is simpler than to openly admit to yourself and others that you might be the one responsible. And yet; as humans, that much is true. None of the problems that exist –would have done so if it wasn’t for us. Too many humans in society have sanctioned the environment, either implicitly or explicitly. As that source most fitting to target their rage against as inferiors –they have no other solutions. Most humans who demonstrate such apathy or hostility to their planetary environment and its possible sustainability; do so because they feel that at least there is some species that is lower than them. They feel they can callously abuse and torture so. We reject this speciest approach is that of essential hypocrisy and cowardice. In what way can this be justified? What have any of these species ever done as victims to their tormentors. If unjustified the aggressors ought to formally and public apologise to their victims; face social; economic; political and religious ostracism and be compelled to work off their debt to the environment. This should be part of the conservation rehabilitation scheme proposed as a complement to community service; applicable across the planet for any crime against our natural heritage.

Humanity has no one to blame for the ecological catastrophe that faces it but itself not even the Gods themselves. Certainly, least of all Gaia and other species themselves. How can we possibly think otherwise? Let us rationally evaluate any other species’ impact or responsibility to the planet to refute this… No; I cannot think of one. I challenge those advocating that we abdicate our environmental irresponsibility and failed custodianship; to say otherwise… The peculiar thing though; is that these problems compromise us –those and that which we cherish or value –even materialism. We as humans have even more to lose in doing nothing; or such pinprick cosmetic gestures we follow at the moment. Conversely; in doing something, we have even more to possibly win. Is this not reason enough?53

As humans continue to embroil the planet in a fiery fissure. The planet relinquishes its regenerative capacity to restore; re-enervate; revive; renew and rectify. It forfeits its absorptive capacity and resilience to the mistakes of humanity. Slowly; we are losing the potential to transform this into a fecund Paradise at the ecological optimum… We may not care about that. But it is a bit odd not to be more concerned (if nothing else even at the uncertainty) when the climate will change. It is fairly perplexing to ignore the most decisive of issues. And one can be fairly surprised at how many people are not so much hostile (though many are); as apathetic and totally disinterested in the concept of environmental reform at all… So many worry about complete utter trivia. The mundane things freak them out. Yet these mortals are completely serene and totally impassive to the suffering they will incur from a ravaged and desiccated environment –especially those in the developed countries or those affluent enough to ignore it. It is as if not only do they not want to have anything to do with it. They completely pretend as if it doesn’t exist. Or if the problems do exist, hey it will be resolved. Or they are overexaggerated by some hysterical and minute, socially; economically; academically; culturally and politically unconnected. Lacking in influence or charisma and hence irrelevant, they can be ignored by those in power and the masses…

As we taint it; our species becomes more and more superfluous to Gaia’s will and those of the Elementals. Hence; natural disasters and new pestilences contagions will occur far more frequently. As Eric Pooley terms it: We are losing this “Climate War!” Until we can do something to avert our own collective suicide of the human species; we will flounder before the revenge of Gaia; embodied in the natural disasters of Nemesis; the Furies and the Fates. We cannot fight a natural disaster from occurring; for all our hypothetical prowess. All we can do is prepare and pre –empt as best we can… (And many of our environmental problems were, are and will be avertable –if we as humans were to make more of an effort). Once we think of the solution and not the problem, we can resolve the problem. If an ecological catastrophe then follows at least we have been sensible in taking precautions to mitigate the impact on our and on other species. Otherwise; if we fail to prepare –we must prepare to fail. We will have absolutely no one at all to blame for our predicament and collective suicide but ourselves -especially in refusing to halt or corrode the impact of those who profane the planet far more than we. For as stewards of this terrain, we have a sacrosanct responsibility not just to personally reduce our impact to the reasonable minimum and seek to atone for what we have done so far. We must replenish the cycle that we interrupted; the resources we squandered and the lives we wasted; but to ensure that others discharge that obligation –as far as reasonably possible.

Dominance, subordination... conflict... So summarises a 5000 year cameo of the common delusion most are susceptible too –whenever they can be bothered to think of other species, when they even think of others than themselves at all. And it is surprising how 54

much thought and attention we concern ourselves with (pets exempted) –except in so far as they provide the sustenance/leather or other products that we often consider so essential in our lives. How many of us think of humans in this capacity; as mere instruments to exploit; manipulate; control and to extricate any resources that we possibly can –and then just dispose of that human life form –and not just to our worst enemies. Not all of us may heroically take the cause of vegetarianism or become Jainists. Not many of us join environmental campaigns and societies; conserve; donate; recycle etc. let alone petition our leadership or join the protests. Seeking to do something to change the current state of affairs; defies that we have no power to intervene or to change what is. This has to be better rather than feeling small; inferior and worthless, hapless as human beings…

However, we could provide those willing to try as colleagues, friends, family, peers, subordinates and those senior, in whatever capacity with psychological support if nothing us (even if we do not join them). We can aid them for having such convictions –and the same extends to any; such as the activists who are prepared to liberate their planet; who try to fight for the planet, other species and our future survival and prosperity not just theirs. It takes tremendous courage to go against the moral strictures of an entire society, to face persecution from the state and to face ostracism from everyone familiar –or even indifference/hostility from others. Also we could express some gratitude occasionally; at times thinking of other species and trying to help them, rather than just let them flounder in a human pool; batter against an unnatural window; freeze in the middle of the road etc… After all; it is natural to have sympathy for those less fortunate as humans –in circumstances beyond their control –to intervene to save the helpless and the unprepared for humans, so why not reciprocate that for others? Why is the urge to obliterate greater than that of the instinct to procreate? But we continue to impose our will and subjugate other species. Why not simply appreciate animals and all other wondrous complexities; magnificent terrain and byzantine creations of Gaia?

Commerce rules. In everything people seek to profit, to enrich themselves, to manipulate, dominate; to act and to live their lives. Many aim to gain self–advantage of some form. Before undertaking something, they seek to know what is the point/purpose? What’s in it for them? Or at the least, what is it for those that they prize or have a connection to them –for whatever reason? Even the so-called philanthropic sector do not care to conserve the Third World’s greatest assets. These include its warmer people –shimmering with ubuntu –and the environment glowing with the potential research to resolve many of our current afflictions. All entities of globalisation i.e. government; international organisations; the media; public – individuals and societies; corporations etc... are all prepared to wage warfare of all kinds rather than consider; that the environment, (not to mention all species) might suffer. And yet; despite all the books, publicity, information and occasional token fine or legislation... are they seriously being brought to justice for their belligerence 55

against the slaughter of innocents of other species of animals and vegetation? Even if they didn’t give a toss about humans (A contentious issue in itself); how does this justify their campaign against other species? Many individuals; governments; organisations and businesses have been identified infringing environmental rights; regulations and polluting wildernesses. Many have openly or indirectly; expressed their contempt, derision/hostility towards other species’ rights to exist peacefully and harmoniously in thought, word and action or lack of it. Why can they not be characterised as having their own form of warfare mentality against the planet?

The first step is to subordinate technology into becoming technomancy. This is where commerce and personal self-interest/profit make way for the ultimate enriching and fulfilling of overarching self-interest. At the moment the warfare mentality prevents this from becoming a reality as there appears to be more profit in eradication than in construction; in death rather than in life... But one day very soon these Merchants of Death (even if it is “merely the environment,” will run out of resources and of customers... The market for biotechnology however... is among the most potentially profitable, secure and certain there is This is far more than those geared to an eternal cycle of warfare and potential reconstruction or the instability even of financial markets. The same could be true of so many others; including developing steam, magnetism, lightning and renewable energy. But does anyone seriously consider devoting sufficient resources to these and others –perhaps even crystals? But no… far too much research and subsidies are channelled to conventional polluting facilities… Industry is often subsidised in its inputs/ receives absurdly cheap electricity, while consumers/ taxpayers/governments pay.

So how does humanity change its position; so that it can no longer be characterised as preferring war to peace. That is postulating and assuming that it essentially wants to? What can be done to invert this Warfare Mentality? To counter this we need to divert the considerable vast proportion of the global GNP converted to arms into restoring our planet’s environment and in the quest for space. This will further accentuate our chances for a future in the discovery of potential new locations for life to Io; Europa and beyond... We could stop fiddling in things we do not understand. Although warfare itself has been a fundamental issue of humanity since its inception –older than religion or most other institutions; we could reform it to incorporate environmental awareness. This is even if our aim is still to slaughter as many people as possible... etc... We could launch our own eco-campaign but this time as a pre-emptive measure to forestall any potential conflicts; corporations, regimes and individuals assist…

For example more use could be made of assassinations, blockades and effective punitive sanctions. It could include targeting strategic locations and infrastructure e.g. transport links. Restrictions could be placed on harming non-humans to minimise collateral damage;

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as other species do not appear to be as infected with this malaise as ours. There could be a tacit understanding that natural parks; botanical gardens etc. would be spared from conflict and not considered military targets. This is a principle that could be extended to historical monuments; places of scholarship and of great cultural or religious significance –in exchange for reciprocating this. The idea is to spare that which humanity consider to be irreplaceable. I.e. starting with the UNESCO World Heritage List and extending to every natural protected area. If there could be a tacit understanding by all sides in war – even irregular movements –religious, political or other types of guerrillas, our heritage might survive as with the German sparing of Oxford and Cambridge during the World Wars. Military testing grounds could be in derelict industrial areas not in areas of outstanding beauty such as the French used the coral atolls of Polynesia and the British used the Australian outback for their nuclear tests. The Ministry of Defence -especially the SAS use Salisbury Plains for military testing. ASIS wreck natural preserves in Australia. It ought to be in areas that humanity has fouled up already rather than seek to contaminate yet another wilderness. After all logically; humanity has stuffed up far more areas through no restraints on urbanisation and industrialisation; than it has remaining of strategic biodiversity and ecological nodes; throughout history – turning potential Elysian Fields into Tartarus.

What can we afford to live without? Who is worth sparing? We will give them (NGO’s, industries, agriculture, businesses, governments, individuals, teams, clubs and societies a chance –one legal chance and one period of mercy to comply with any existing environmental legislation. They would gain one more chance for any subsequent legislation (as identified in this treatise and elsewhere) before active prosecution. One could even advocate public participation in this process, especially in reporting and enforcing. However; those who do not prosecuted will be tried by not only by rule of law; but also publicly ostracised; humiliated and reviled for the environmental traitor they are. This might honour the true spirit of democracy and of ensuring positive externalities, (where the marginal social benefit exceeds the marginal social cost and the social benefit exceeds the private benefit. This could consult academics; jurists; environmentalists and concerned community members to design an appropriate public punishment as penance to the planet and all species

If we make mistakes, let us learn from them. Even if we repeat them, perhaps we will experience something that could aid the future. Let us experience the repercussions. Only then might we be galvanised to act! The amusing and tragic thing is that; humans seldom learn the consequences of their actions… even when it is fatal… It is conjectured a single asteroid virtually wiped out all organisms. With our so-called technological advancement, we could achieve that ourselves… Too many are committed to destruction rather than investing in a sustainable prosperous co-existence with other species across the farthest 57

realms of the celestial aether. When will we ever really learn? Humanity is notoriously short sighted –at ignoring poignant; hearkening omens and auspices. But then they did persecute those clairvoyants and initiates of divination so many centuries ago… But these portends exist to those willing and able to decipher them. Now for so many their collective fates are worse – either ignored; sensationalised or trivialised. But seldom are they acted upon (if ever). And yet; we cannot rely on external intervention or divine mercy –unless we show that we are worthy of such…

In conclusion; although the ecological future has been well predicted; seldom has any consideration been given to the implications of our global set of civilisations without the resources it currently has at the moment. In the future resources will become more and more valuable. As they become scarcer; they will be worth more... Curiously the Warfare Mentality and our human penchant for belligerence and aggression may actually prompt future conflicts over securing resources. Countries may be not quite so committed to free trade when they realise that they might need the resources for themselves. So many of the past wars have been about acquiring more resources and territories. In the future; nation might be scrambling to preserve what they have. Have any humans entertained the thought, let alone acted with sufficient foresight and foreknowledge to consider how they might react from this seemingly inevitable and blighted ecological Apocalypse? How will humans react to the crisis; assuming they survive? Will they adapt? Will they continue to thrive or survive? Or will this be the ultimate culmination of their aeon old, scheduled programme to wager destruction upon themselves; each other and the convulsing spheroid that surrounds them? Given their approach though up until now; in prioritising this warfare mentality; this anti–environmentalism; anti–reform; anti-enlightenment; pro-degeneracy/vice sensation; one has to wonder if they even deserve it.

Chapter 4: An Ecological History

The history of the planet Gaia from the ecological perspective; is a recent phenomenon.... despite the true ecological history evidently spanning the ages of Chronus. There have been too few recorded martyrs who have received the attention they deserve; too few ecological movements and contributions to ecology and conservation; that have been recorded. It remains far rarer to include the positive perspective of those persevering to gallantly defend their planet –even with their lives if necessary; amid universal discouragement and hostility. This chapter will trace not only the history of conservation and environmental philosophy but

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humanity’s attempt to civilise Nature... This section can only represent but a token to their unrelenting and devoted sacrifices. But it is a tale needing to be immortalised as a noble example. When history is written in the future; once we have achieved an Ecological Resurrection; it will be from the perspective of planetary ecology and conservation. It will occur from assessing the comparative extent to which humans have succeeded or failed in their self-appointed mandate as terrestrial sovereigns seeking to dominate their will upon all species and Gaia herself…

The ecological history moment also dwells on the tragedy of humanity’s ascendency coinciding with the rise in ecological crimes/violations against nature and the significant increase in the number of species removed from the world’s biosphere. Wherever, we have been on this planet; we have left only desolation. Early evident examples include the deforestation in the Indus Valley. Where Mesopotamia; Sumer and Babylon were fertile oases the deserts of Arabia; Iraq and Afghanistan; are far less blessed and are cursed with the denudation and erosion left by humanity. The desert left behind there in the Mongol steppes and the Sahara Desert of North Africa –once capable of supporting over 600 Roman cities (See on African Renaissance) and elsewhere; show how little we truly value our world. from the beginning. More of the world was habitable. More was fecund, fertile and prolific. More species flourished and while it may have never reached a fabled Utopia or Golden Age –people were often far more attuned to their environment. They became far more sensitive and exposed or at the very least… aware that their actions had a physical impact upon their environment. Closer to their planet they were more appreciative and less wasteful. And that is all we can try to ask for from many human beings to restrain your impact. Please try not to be so squandering; avaricious and culpable. Be thankful for the blessings of life and the environment the world has offered to you, to Earth failing to anyone and everything else…

How many species including the dinosaurs and mammoths have disappeared from our archives and gene pools? Too many. Who knows how we might have progressed and excelled as a species. If we hadn’t been so swift to ensure their extinction; what research benefits and potential insights/miraculous discoveries and other wonders that they could have provided for us. If only we hadn’t thoughtlessly annihilated them. To what purpose does extinction serve – when we have yet to evaluate all potential benefits of each and every species upon the surface of this planet, including our own…? Perhaps in understanding their nature we might not only understand how to adapt to this planet and the Multiverse itself; but how to live with ourselves and our self-appointed role that monotheism; globalised society and Darwinist ideology have continued to broadcast as anti-species propaganda. To avert other species from the End; we need to do everything possible to avoid further extinction. If that means you have to prioritise them over a species as disinterested; apathetic; self-seeking and anti–ecological equilibrium as humanity; then so be it. We should dedicate as many resources as it takes to avert a continuation of this destructive ecological 59

history. We should concentrate on memorising the lessons we can historically learn from our planet; from other species. The past can only serve as an actual warning to the present and the future by learning how to change the world, avoiding the repetition of these errors. From clarifying our approach to our planet, we better reflect certain elemental traits off our collective and individual nature, as part of the human species…

The ecological history of the planet concerns itself with those beings who considered other species were just as worthy as humans, if not more so. Ancient Egypt for instance recognised that deities could appear in animal incarnation as anthromorphisms to demonstrate the sanctity and equality of all life forms, regardless of species. Crocodiles were sacred to Sobek, Jackals and dogs to Anubis; the cow to Hathor. Even Khephri honoured the dung beetle. Cats were also sacred to the goddess Bast as another species, which it was forbidden to harm –let alone to kill upon pain of death. In the reign of Ptolemy Auletes; the native Egyptians created riots outside the Roman embassy killing the Roman citizen who brazenly slayed a hapless feline as impious. This nearly precipitated war with the ruling Ptolemies. The Athenians continued this in not just honouring the gods in animal forms but also their messengers. These included those sacred to them, with the owl blessed to Pallas Athena herself, while the Romans held eagles to be auspicious to Jupiter himself. There is something to be said about religions which considered the natural welfare and prosperity of species, rather than seeking to dominate the planet, like the rise of monotheism and secularism. Neither of these has succeeded in letting humans valuing the lives of other organisms –fauna and plant based. The dawn of globalisation and so-called modernity has only reinforced speciesism by undermining traditional religions and cultural taboos that inhabitants of this planet from Sarawak and Borneo, Native Americans to the San, valuing nonhuman life have demonstrated. Globalisation imposes no restrictions upon humanity. Many do not know what to do with what they have been given, especially the opportunities of time and chance.

Equally worthy of emulation were those humans; who not just in religion but personally throughout history, not just the present have abjured from being callous towards other species –whom do not deserve it. Many even refrained from their consumption of other species. Pythagoras believed in the sanctity of all life. He and his followers treated all species as equally worthy. How many humans could possibly be as considerate towards other species as those vegetarians such as he? While many humans appear to be natural omnivores; this cannot excuse our extinction of other species or the death of species other than that of nutritional and subsistence purposes or the necessity of self-survival. Theophrastus –one of his followers; to whom we owe one of the foremost compendia on herblore; opted to rebel against even using animals as sacrifices. Although realising sacrifices were necessary to appease the gods, he advocated substituting plants; such was his empathy towards other animal species. (There are so many humans that have desecrated the planet, profaned it and have relinquished humanity and virtue. Perhaps they could have 60

been offered to animals –none –or few of which, of which could ever be justifiably tried according to any human crimes. Deaths and injuries are mostly excused by the same rights to which many judicial systems award to humans the right to self-defence, to live life without interference, pain and torture/suffering.)

To quote Theophrastus…

“In sacrifice we take from plants in part, their products and not their lives. In gratitude and in spirit of our piety, we consecrate this offering to the Gods. Plants willingly give up their produce, even voluntarily giving it up –if we do not uproot them (replant them/ leave them alone). We sow and tend plants and therefore we give them something of ours –that in synergy we have helped to thrive and keep alive. Also; fruits of the earth are more numerous and far easier to replenish with our agricultural progress (Another gift of Gaia; Ceres and the other species, whom ecologically made our existence and our advances possible), to sacrifice than other species. Honey too is an excellent and appropriate natural sacrifice –as is wine. This is because humans tend bees and vines, contributing to the product. No harm comes to them. They are able to continue in symbiosis.

“We ought to sacrifice those things and live our lives/undertake actions with which, when we sacrifice and act, we harm no one. A sacrifice; a thought or an action ought to be harmless –to the blameless and innocent –of all species. But one harms animals by taking away their lives – (especially unnecessarily considering scientific/consumer research and experiments/ human activity). To those who have created for us the greatest of goods –our planet Earth and life among them, we must give the greatest returns from the most valuable things; especially if the gods themselves are responsible for those things. The finest and most valuable things the gods create from us are the fruits and other natural wonders of the earth and so with these; must we and do we, truly honour them…”

Although we have forfeited animal sacrifices we continue to wreak environmental problems and misery, death, pain and torture as our shameful legacy to other species from the Ancients onwards, without even the potential justification of appeasing the Gods. Historically awareness of environmental problems and our potentially fatal impact is not a singular part of this century alone however, much we might think it is… The Greeks and Romans were aware of environmental problems too. However; as with most historically defined “Great Civilisations,’ they cared more about expansion to replace depleted resources –than actually resolving the problem itself. The Roman provinces of Caria and Phrygia in Asia Minor were deforested by the first century of the Common Era. The only reason Syria was spared; was the personal decree and intervention by the Emperor Hadrian to forbid logging. Throughout history conservation efforts have been monumental and without those that have happened, our world would be even closer to disaster.

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One has to look to the growth of monotheist religions to partially account for humanity’s quest to dominate other species and pillage their environment. After the eminent Romans Ovid; Plutarch, Seneca and Porphyry, not to mention the Emperor Marcus Aurelius and Apollonius of Tyana; it took another millennium or more (St Francis of Assisi) and then the Renaissance before the Western hemisphere thought about the equality of species –deserving respect and dignity. Monotheism and the ascendency of secularism are still far too human centric in their perception Chronus spanned many years, decades and centuries before sufficient humans thought of their planet’s natural heritage as a trove worth retaining in itself. This trend is mirrored in secularism. This is especially in current forms of economics/ wealth indicators such as GDP. Many still place value on production and consumption over environmental conservation.

“Christ himself shows that to refrain from the killing of animals and the destruction of vegetation is the height of superstition, for judging their our no common rights between us and the beasts and trees; he sent the demons into a herd of swine and with a curse –caused over 2000 of them to flee into the sea (Surely he could have spared the pigs; if this account happened?) Surely; the swine had not sinned and yet was treated so?

St Augustine

And that; is why our approach is necessary, given the historical ascendency of the world’s major religions after the Roman Empire to the Renaissance and Enlightenment throughout the world. For several thousand years civilisation and the pace of humanity –in most societies has been about how man could subdue his environment. It emphasises how humanity could exploit its resources; extracting and pillaging the world inhabited without mercy or any significant consequence. For several thousand years humanity has been considered to advance at the expense of other species, utilising technology to create a materialist present and past; while failing to heed the future. This especially ignores the consequences of his/her own actions. But this can no longer be the indicator or barometer of the human measure of progress. We have reached a pivotal definitive junction in history. The fate of our planet, our species and others will depend on the choices we make now, the continued conditions for life itself. If we wish to preserve any environment capable of achieving the best in all species in a self-sustaining ecological equilibrium, this depends on our choices now. In future centuries they will assess our era to the extent that we have faced the challenges before us – as we in turn evaluated and assessed those in the past. Examples include the Greeks; Romans; Egyptians; Chinese; Incans; Khmer and others. At the moment, we have proven ourselves unworthy. The ideology of the age is anti-planetary conservation. We need to halt this religious ascendency and adopt the Way of Gaia and the planet conscious Olympian elementals. It is highly recommended to follow the examples laid before

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us in an alternative ecological history of martyrs and heroes, basing it upon a faith and a will that is planet-centred –not just human-centred.

The Mayans who flourished between the fifth and the eighth centuries of the Galilean/ Common Era (AD) were not so concerned. They faced Nature’s ultimate price –that of extinction and oblivion. This is the ultimate price paid throughout history for the majority of human civilisations, given how so many have ignored their ecological and climate limits. Their unknown fate with the last monarch around 831 CE; shows how Gaia can be equally as feared and capricious to those who would rape her so; just as potentially lethal as any human military power as a potential threat. Crop monoculture not diversification also reduced their potential chances of securing and expanding their food supply/crop yield. They serve another historical example to complete that of Easter Island. Both show evident examples of soil erosion, crop overgrazing; deforestation and low soil fertility/sparse vegetation and fauna. This demonstrates what happens; when humanity outgrows its environment and population exceeds the ecologically sustainable; optimum populace.

Angkor Wat and Macchu Picchu are the ultimate examples of; for all humanity’s achievements; Gaia’s vegetation will ultimately predominate in time. The documentary: Life After People” suggests that most of our achievements would disappear by the weathering effects of Gaia, were we to disappear. And we may still; from the way we treat this planet. However; the invading vegetation or sand that has engulfed cities from Mexico to Samarkand and Thebes; shows in the long term; Gaia will avenge herself for our attempts to subordinate our civilisations on her. Easter Island serves as an example of lifelessness from deforestation and excess cultivation without replenishment. In the end the planet will have had its moment for revenge? But the question remains to be answered: will we have survived? Will we be here to witness it?

By 1681; a few years after sailors realised how easy it was to consume –and not to renew; the dodo disappeared. So that we never knew it, when the ignorance of sailors hunted and them introduced pigs to wreck their homes and eggs. The last Stellar Sea Cow was hunted to death in the Commander Islands in 1768 AD. But have we noticed the difference? How could we? Many previous extinctions such as these and those subsequent… happen second by second without us appearing to notice or care? Too many are allowed to die without vigorous protest. This is despite the fact that they might have the potential to assist us. Why do we not care more about species? For those exceedingly rare, why not take measures to preserve them and avoid being deleted. Human introduction of alien species and desire for profit etc. has led to countless dearths of species, many of which could have so easily been averted. It is far easier to destroy a species than to conserve it. In the face of so much superfluous human development. most of which is really unnecessary. Besides; how can you place such a low or non-existent value on another species? Those who do clearly and

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evidently forgetting humans, many of whom; from their unwillingness to try to change and often are culpable seldom try to change

The last Great Awk bird died in 1844; the last Quagga in Southern Africa 1883 and the last bison died in Poland in 1920. But neither were appreciated and mourned then nor wished for now. The desire for transporting exotic pets and rivalry from foreign species caused the murder of the last Paradise Parrot of northeastern Australia. Such was humanity’s desire to destroy rather than attempt to conserve or renew they opted to place public money bounties for the heads of Tasmanian tigers in 1936. Many had already perished by human introduction of alien parasites and disease. The harmless rodent, the Cloudrunner found only on the minuscule Ilin Island in the Philippines, faced the loss of its habitat in 1953 and extinction. The 28th and current century was not alone in the atrocities wrought against other species’ fundamental rights to exist. It merely accelerated the scale at which this was done, to the point that many question our capacity to do something about our problems. And yet; only Gaia and the gods can truly introduce the miracle of life; integrate it into the current ecosystem and provide it by sustaining it. From the fragments we have for the dodos and for other species we cannot bring them back– even the dinosaurs which was one rare species that wasn’t humanity’s fault, (despite Crichton’s Jurassic Park).

None of the perpetrators of these crimes has ever been convicted –or even shown remorse/ apologised (because isn’t the species equivalent of genocide comparable to these crimes?) Those who poach rhinos, whales or others, and continue to perpetuate death are the same. Ecological crimes remain the least stated in impact; the least publicised and the least appreciated, let alone prosecuted. And yet they are in essence no different to many of the offences and crimes considered socially and legally unacceptable in many jurisdictions –including murder, rape, theft; slavery and plunder Yet we do nothing about it… Why? We have to challenge a world where nothing fundamentally happens to those who violate the natural order, who desecrate; defile, despoil, rape and plunder their planet. We have to challenge those who sadistically concern themselves more with their own convenience than the welfare of other species and even those too lazy to switch off nonessential appliances.

Then the Modern Era began. More crimes were committed against nature than at any other point and this in the century; where technological alternatives began to first appear. This creates even less possible excuse for these people. For with hindsight; at least those in the present and future could endorse then and replace existing products when ecologically comparable options are now a reality, rather than just an idle fantasy. To consider some of the worst human offences against the planet of the twentieth century is to wonder how certain technological developments can really said to be benefitting humanity or the planet. It was a lack of environmental protection standards and centuries of heavy industrialisation that created the infamous London Smog deaths, especially that of 1952. The War in

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Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia with the defoliants used by the US; ranks as one of the most pungent of offences against the planet, as does intense logging in the Amazonian/ Indonesian rainforests. The 1976 Seveso Chemical Disaster in Italy and the 1986 Chernobyl Russia incident on nuclear power were but two of the atrocities for which not just the planet but we are still suffering; decades after they happened. This includes even those who had nothing to do with it. That is why we cannot afford to be complacent. That is why we need to do something about the environment and have to reverse disasters. Because ultimately; we all pay the price. That is the argument we would use to quash any who deny us this. We would not only find ways of solving the most blighted, polluted and tainted parts of the planet, we would prosecute the maleficent instigators and take pre-emptive measures via compulsory legislation. This ensures that such may never again scar our planet’s beauty or destabilise the fragility of the ecosystem.

Why seek to have even more disasters; when there is so much to do to responds to current and the effects of those past ones? The most polluted towns such as Dzerzhinsk Russia (the most polluted lake and chemical pollution of any urban settlement with average male and female lifespan (42 and 47 respectively) and cities (Mexico City; Bangkok; Beijing; Shanghai… whose denizens need masks to breathe) as listed in the Guinness World Records; have to stop pollution or else highly populated sectors of the world will be decimated. Life will no longer be possible. History –the cultural and ecological legacy was never meant to support such, will have fully corroded. We cannot afford the Sandoz chemical disaster in Basel Switzerland, which caused the sacrifice of 500,000 innocent fish that contributed to no one; the dumping of fertiliser injuring 45,00 people by the heinous crimes of Shin Nippon Chisso Co; or the shrinkage of the Aral Sea from 68,000 square kilometres in 1950 to a mere 268.00 by July 1994.

We would like to know what humanity has against so many other species –most of whom, are merely trying to survive on their own... just as humans would in their circumstances. What did these other species ever do to humanity? Consider the fact that Pope Pius IX refused a branch of the SPCA in Rome on the specious claims that animals would be elevated above the welfare concerns of humans… In fact it took until Pope John Paul II in a 1988 papal encyclical “On Social Concern,” to officially recognise both the environmental crisis and for animals to be treated fairly along with humans. Take DDT, we had to suffer the toxic effects of pesticides because of the campaign against invertebrates. And yet historically via rat poison and other animal traps/ poisons etc, humans have always sought to destroy rather than live peacefully with other species. Many of these just wish to be lived alone as ecologists will verify. When recording our ecological record and history; what will the future make of this generation that alone had the chance to avert the doom; ecological history of Terra predicts and then failed to?

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The ecological history movement coincides with many animals enjoying historic protection; considered blessed or sacred. In South Africa; the Zulu’s forbade the slaughter of a crocodile without a just caus. They reported incidents to senior induna. The first settler expedition of the Great Trek –from the British in the Cape of Afrikaners led to specific attempts at conserving game. The leader Piet Retief around 1838 CE, banned slaughtering game unnecessarily and regulated burning of the grasslands. The local government enshrined the first legal protection in 1866 CE. A year later after Kruger established SA’s first game reserve in 1894; five more were established in Natal: at St Lucia; the Umfolozi junction; Hluhluwe valley; Pongolo –Umkuzi and Umdhletshe. In 1947 a Provincial Parks Board was launched. 1960 launched Operation Rhino to translocate white rhino globally. Throughout rangers such as Nick Steele and Dr Ian Player worked to promote the conservationist ideal. In 1982 a KwaZulu Department of Nature Conservation was formed to directly involve locals to benefit from eco –tourism. But this so easily undermined by some primitive superstition over fake medicine, the ridiculous thrill of butchering some hapless animal in an unequal contest or sheer apathy and laziness over the impending extinction of a species.

“What is mankind without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, humanity would die of great loneliness of spirit. For whatever happens to the beasts also happens to the human... Teach your children what we have taught our children: that the earth Gaia: is their mother. Whatever befalls the earth... befalls the sons and daughters of that earth... If humans spit upon the ground, they spit upon themselves... The earth does not belong to humanity; humanity belongs to the earth... Mankind did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web; he does to himself...”

Chief Seattle; Squamish tribe 1854...

And yet; how few cod are left in the Atlantic. Fish disappear from South Africa and Namibia to the South Pacific and really who cares at all for the waste of bycatch? This should be no surprise –given our past historic legacy of overfishing. The shortages even initiated the little known “Cod War” between the United Kingdom and Iceland in the 1970’s, over the declining yields in the Atlantic of the fish harvests.

Thomas Sankara worked to halt the desert from engulfing Burkina Faso between 1983 -1987 (as cited in my previous treatise: the African Renaissance). To reverse the assault of desertification which barrages the scoured insouciance of apathetic or contemptuous characters and gnarled contours of urbanity, artificially disseminated in defiance of Gaia, 1000,0000 trees were planted to halt the strident advance of the militant Sahara. The ideal of sacrosanct arboreal counters to ecological pillaging; extended to the forbidding of wood gathering in depleted areas and preventing the arbitrary roving of livestock. In addition every village was required to have a sacred wood grove, with profound veneration and

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memory of endemic tradition, throughout the continent. Every celebration in Upper Volta –whether a wedding or a birth, an award or birthday, was blessed and celebrated with the planting of a tree, commemorated in an August 3rd award ceremony.

The archipelagos of Africa have thrived upon it economically i.e. Mauritius; the Seychelles; the Comoros; Cape Verde; Sao Tome and Principe along with those of Sub Saharan Africa –South Africa Botswana; Namibia; Zambia; Malawi; Swaziland and Zimbabwe -Rhodesia especially. The Seychelles under President Rene in 1977, established a free trade Development Bank Exclusive Economic Zone, and 1000,000 square kilometres of the Maritime Zone; reasserting aquatic territorial domain. This required illicit poachers such as Japan to confine themselves to legitimate permits raising revenue and promoting sustainable fishing. Ecotourism was adopted since independence, categorically with Cuireme Island Giant Tortoise Conservancy and Whale Sanctuary. This was strengthened by the 1979 Seychelles Island Foundation to preserve natural ecologies and sustainable development. In 1982 Aldair as the first coral atoll in the world to be a UNESCO declared Natural Heritage Site, became a maritime preserve.

“It is becoming advisable to set aside some kind of sanctuary in which game might find a refuge. Continued shooting and persecution by farmers; poachers; hunters and others of game, will forever destroy a valuable natural and state asset of wonder…”

President Kruger Addressing the Volksraad, on Kruger and Pongola park

South Africa since President Paul Kruger of the Boer Republic initiated one of the world’s most hallowed and prestigious wildlife reserves the Kruger Park. It is also one of the world’s first and finest examples of wilderness conservation as mutually profitable to humans and the animals defended by them -alike. During that period it was paralled by the 1894 Pongola Game Reserve Ever since then communities and governments; as in Tanzania; Zambia; Kenya; Zambia; Malawi and “Zimbabwe” have realised there is more profit to be had; utilising the wilderness as a pristine asset. It remains common sense for many to make money from tourists, then there is in once off poaching and demolition. Poach an animal –and you can only profit from it once. Game farm and protect an animal or environment; and Gaia will repay that covenant; via continued profit from tourism; medical knowledge; food; clean health etc. South Africa is known for the commitment of many of its nongovernmental organisations and media individuals to devote themselves so to the necessity of conservation for many decades. The world’s first environmental journalist that specialised within it was John Bond of the Johannesburg Star; while TC Robertson of the National Veldt Trust also supported it. The “Fourth Estate” could devote more media coverage and attention –evaluating the concerns with then

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Ecological history shows what can be done; if we are willing to commit ourselves. We can only show ourselves as truly capable both individually and as a species; if we prove that we demonstrate enough common sense not to destroy the collective habitat of all known terrestrial life forms that we consider inferior to our own. Africa has a long history asserting the importance of constraining human impact on the environment. This is demonstrated by the empires of the Congo; Songhay and Mali among others; who artificially restricted their boundaries so as to not pressurize their environment. It has a fine track record of conserving the wilderness. Africa also is devoted to the problem of poaching; since the Chinese have undermined CITES in their quest for rhino and elephant poaching. One poacher received 40 years in jail on the 10th November 2012 CE for contributing to the mutilating of rhinoceroses for their horns. This signals how we prioritise it so. In Kenya after President Moi banned hunting; he publicly burned hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of ivory in an emblazing bonfire.

We of Africa fully identify with the environmental ethos; in contrast to the majority on other continents. Many may agree in principle but seldom bother in physical action to prove their commitment... Botswana has devoted 17% of its land surface to wildlife conservation; Namibia and “Zimbabwe” 12% and South Africa 9%. The concept of transfrontier peace parks is an African first extending across countries first with the Kgalagadi Park in 1999 CE/ 2752 AUC. How many countries and continents truly prioritise the environment? This section seeks to chart and identify those countries and empires; whom have treasured their planet; whom not only have recognised the environmental issues that exist; but have also done something about it.

The history of the environmental movements and the martyrs that died so nobly in the pursuit of understanding nonhuman animals and helping them to survive deserve the highest of accolade. This has been a relentless ordeal against a relentless human biological and historical impulse to subjugate and dominate species; rendering so many of them extinct… Even now; so many of them continue to be ignored by the media/those in power at best –tortured, mutilated, cauterised and slaughtered at worst. And yet; what are they doing that is so fundamentally wrong? Merely seeking to defend the right to life, liberty, existence, meaning and non-interference that so many ostensibly proclaim as worthy and noble; ethical and necessary principles to follow, (but selectively only for the human race…) One day the ecological history will be the history by which those other species which inhabit the world; which we may find in space; the deities that govern and guide us. It will be interpreted and revered by those of future generations as they judge the progression of a species that arrogantly has asserted its dominance over all species of the sea; land and aether. They will be baffled, seeking to fathom those prepared to unleash any number of examples of pain; torture; death; extinction; enslavement; exploitation; human engineered disasters and catastrophes. This is not to mention tormenting those who try to defend themselves or Gaia; 68

especially if that same species refuses to learn from the lessons of history and the present; to destroy their world. We will be immortalised as the generations who inherited Paradise and cared so little for it that we forespelled our own, far from inevitable doom and ecological Apocalypse of an impending Age of Climate Change Uncertainty.

Chapter 5: The Great Environmentalism Debate: Challenges; Arguments and Refuting Counter Arguments:

Pragmaticism is imperative! For all the idealistic appeals to moral sentiment; an ethical conscience and emotion, most involved will only change with sufficient incentives and deterrents. A debate is necessary as the prelude to action because this issue affects us all –whether we believe in climate change/environmentalism or whether we do not. The ancient remedies; evasions; lies and bluster cannot detract from the real evidence of global warming cited in so many studies. Climate change too has received the publicity. But seldom has a defence of environmental philosophy been articulately stated, refuting the opposing arguments. Too often our opponents are permitted to publicise their 69

arguments without refutation. Yet any eco activist who tries to demonstrate his or he opinion in exchange; is often maltreated by those supporting the current globalisation minded social order/hierarchy whether in the First; the Second or the Third World. It makes no difference; law protects governments and large corporations first. There is a way forward –and that way is us. But it is also the rest of humanity – it cannot be just us alone. Before we can progress though, we need to persuade others to join us… and that is the purpose of this section. In part it seeks to summarise the arguments that our detractors use against the environmental cause and those who value it. It seeks through counterarguments to refute some of the more outlandish and preposterous justifications the governing elite use to validate polluting our world or at the very least to do nothing –other than token symbolic gestures as vaporous and utterly pointless.

The First World is not necessarily more interested in ecological conservation over profit; than people of the Third World, for all the attention; self-seeking publicists and non-governmental organisations; published accumulated works and other efforts. Often they just have better financial and technological resources; greater formal government experience. People remain people, mixed regardless of their origins, circumstances, education, experience, resources etc. Many activists are less concerned with the basic fundamentals considered essential of Amaryta Sen: Sustenance; Self –Esteem and Freedom. Security in materialism; political and social stability and welfare state reduce the uncertainties of life enough for them to focus on the vicissitudes of the planet rather than their own misfortunes. Treatises in favour of the environment rarely state the obvious in debating the need not only for environmental preservation but its history and why we should defend it. What is the argument for conservation? Can it be valid? Or is it merely a means of leisure for the idle affluent and middle strata of society? Conservation on its own makes sense in answer to these and other such mindlessly inane offerings in defence of the global slaughter and charnel house of the environment that most endorse. Many seldom seem to familiarise themselves with the (apparently heretical concept) that many of us in sub-Saharan Africa have long realised. The benefits of climateproofing, ecological sustainability and wildlife conservation not just for the rich but as a means of economically empowering local communities out of poverty; with very few viable other economic prospects.

Take for example those tourists who go in on safari in Kenya and Uganda. Local communities can gain from eco-tourism, especially in constant employment rather than sporadic poaching and find a financial; self-interested incentive to participate. But it is simply common sense. If you poach an animal you only gain immediate benefit from slaughtering it once –and you soon will have to do the same to another. However; if you conserve animals for minimal effort; as a community you can gain far more over a greater period of time. It is a question of self-interest. Humans respond to that motivation first 70

and foremost, beyond many others... It would resolve the tragedy of the commons; promote ecological sustainability and address moral hazard. This helps ensure that people have both the incentive and the opportunity not to shift the costs of the consequences of their actions onto others.

There are many sound reasons and psychological aspects to consider in this environmentalism debate. What arguments do critics bring against the necessity to conserve; to improve the environment; to accept reality and to reform? How can such arguments exist? It is illogical to state that the planet has no tangible benefits for the human and others and should not be concerned, when without this planet we would be nothing –never have achieved so far… Do we really have to spell out the benefits of conserving the environment; in enabling greater health, prosperity, a greater quality of life; income and employment, tastier food, peace, knowledge from biodiversity, space, greater beauty or inspiration…? And yet; we who keep defending this debate; keep having to reiterate and spell out the same benefits again and again. How many benefits are there to using a resource up once off –and therefore it no longer remains present to use again? We are not saying that resources can never be used, if we need to use them. It just makes sense to focus on productive efficiency that goods are produced with the fewest possible scarce resources. We should target allocative efficiency –those produce/goods most desired ought to be produced (reduce the surfeit over-choice of consumers that we humans have). It is prudent to replenish anything that can be replanted; for any species that can be placed under farming/aquaculture even organic/ ranches –that we utilise frequently. This is so that we can guarantee secure harvests in the present and in the future. Anything that is recyclable or biodegradable can be treated so –and the rest of detritus is minimised and compressed. We would all benefit from lowering the costs associated with discharging pollutants into our planet.

The arguments our detractors use are several:

Stubbornness! No matter what; they will advocate that you are incorrect; simply because few have an open mind and are willing to adjust their perspective; filtered from new evidence. People do not ever like admitting they were wrong. Nor do they like admitting mistakes and errors. Yet; those climate change sceptics and anti–environmentalists cannot provide a convincing refutation to scientific evidence or the soaring climatological or meteorological anomalies; the precipitous ascent in species extinction/loss of habitats and biodiversity. They cannot refute worsening health/welfare from poorer environmental quality and increasingly abnormal ecological phenomena. Yet when it comes to the planet; only the foolish and stupendously obtuse would deny that our species has made some fairly alarming mistakes and flaws when it comes to the physical world they inhabit and the human relationship with it. How can we change if we do not admit these problems

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and are too stubborn to do something? Stubbornness –cannot be a convincing argument –ever to save the planet. Environmentalists and those who give a toss about their planet have been considering change/reform –the potential of hope. Their reaction happens to primarily be... inaction! They would rather stall or refute those who desire to do something rather than offer constructive alternatives for the magnitude of problems that inevitably dawn; from being blind to the doomed biosphere. Thinking of the problems and not the solution may be what most treatises and critics seek to do. But it is not ours. We prefer action not just merely to debate alone.

Denialists lack logic; consistency and conviction in most arguments they make. Is it occurring? If it is, can we stop it? At what rate is it occurring? Can we reduce the impact? Can we be certain? Is it worth postponing the problem? Is it worth doing anything about it –or can it be stalled etc.? When it comes to the prognosis nothing appears certain! But that very uncertainty should not be an excuse for inaction; for doing nothing at all. Enough species have gone extinct from our reckless self-indulgence. Enough biodiversity and indigenous knowledge that could have helped or spared us has disappeared. Enough effects of pollution have been documented, even the smog that attacked cities such as London and some of our greatest cultural treasures from acid rain in the Parthenon to the desertification of the Sahara. The more they concede, cadge and otherwise fumble –avoiding the issue; the less convincing the rest of their arguments appear to be.

Can our opponents prove empirically with 100% certainty; their usual arguments: it is too late; too expensive, that it does not matter? Can they deny a problem exists? It is clear that it exists! They would like us to protract the problem., demanding empirical proof... They argue that it will cost the global economy... but never specify how the cost of inactivity and uncertainty will affect the economy more... At least the policies outlined in this treatise and elsewhere by prophets of the environmental movement; have the advantage of greater certainty than the counterproposals that are so conspicuously absently mentioned by our opponents. Let us not blind ourselves to the magnitude of the problems that we have encircling us. One argument in favour of the activists is that they are proposing action to do something to acknowledge the problems; to face and confront them. Many even want to resolve them, which in itself should be a reason for anyone frustrated with our lack of progress and advancement on the environment and other problems that have haunted us for aeons but are germinating; -getting worse and worse… The sceptics appear to desire an Apocalypse before they can be prompted into a crisis responsive mode. But can we really afford that indulgence in this of allowing them to wait until it happens before acting?

Instead of asking the right question: i.e. Can we solve this? They would have us just suffer. They do not appear to have ever given the matter any serious thought. Most humans

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would just try to exploit what they can and give nothing back, even that which they could so easily spare... That is one point they scarcely ever consider. Maybe because the rich, the powerful and the influential; will initially be less affected than most of us... The majority cannot afford the price that will be extracted to enjoy even a fraction of the standards currently enjoyed. The poor and the marginalised will be the first affected. They and general citizen, not so privileged such as us; will be the ones most affected by a changing climate. The poor should concentrate on environmental issues more –Forewarned is forearmed –especially given how vulnerable many of them might become… Whether we like it or not –whether we are personally responsible or not is irrelevant given the scope of the tragedy in sight. Although to some degree; all of us are complicit. Some of us are just astute and devoted enough to want to do something about it. Is it not worth; finding a way to make the environmental cause relevant to the poor; to most of society –so that they too can see that it would be in their best interests to do something? After all; without involving them as well as finding incentives for the private sector anything we do will not have an effect. It will be neutralised by the billions; so indoctrinated into consumer binging materialism and their leaders (See the chapters Motivation and How to Reform);

Theological: Monotheism views other species to be dominated and inherently views humans as superior to other sentient creatures. Of the major faiths; only Hellenic Mythology and forms of paganism views non-humans as equal to humans. Few target the environment to such a degree as to ascribe it the status of a living; sentient; perceptive organism: Gaia concerned for the plight of all species. The gods by appearing in animal form realised that humans alone were not the sole species worth concerning about and relating to upon this planet. They have the souls and spirits of other animals –not just many of our own as more human-centric doctrines. Only Jainism enjoins apologies to animals for any life inadvertently taken. Secularism holds nothing sacred. Technomancy does not currently favour commercialising means of saving the planet. Instead it favours arms as ways of destroying it. This is even though we are fully capable of wiping out the entire human race in myriad ways; tenfold, one hundredfold… even a thousandfold. The ethos of Darwinism and evolution again regards other species as only worth to serve humans –like the theological. But relatively speaking rhinos were here 55 million years ago. Coelacanths predate us by 38 million years. Crocodiles were here 65 million years ago. The oldest recorded inhabitant is a 183 year old tortoise on the grounds of Plantation House St Helena, called Johnathan. According to this track record; we really haven’t advanced so much. Perhaps in all seriousness, we should be enfranchising and paying homage to them… It may even be worth it, in contrast to the usual banal and mediocre leaderships.

Global culture: Essentially materialistic (as first seen in Chapter 1), this denies the environmental movement as compatible with a modern; materialist and affluent seeking 73

lifestyle. But there is no reason why a good quality of life or economic growth/human welfare and prosperity is incompatible with environmental conservation and a real “Green Revolution!” One only has to look at Scandinavia and the Seychelles to show it is possible. It is possible to combine an exceptional quality of life with wealth and balanced healthy growth. Switzerland; New Zealand and Canada. are all doing well by any standards… Did they compromise on their environment? The Seychelles, Botswana, Mauritius, Australia, Bhutan… the beaches of the Caribbean; these countries are thriving examples of countries that subsist primarily on tourism –and profiting from conserving their natural beauty. This includes not destroying it for ephemeral high growth/profits –like India, Russia and China, Compare this to the Asian tigers –South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and the obviously compelling example of China. Before considering their record growth rate; consider the deterioration in their quality of life? As one of those suffering or with the potential to suffer in such; we have to ask ourselves; is it really worth it? Are we really willing to pay that ultimate price to not even be able to breathe? This was one of the most fundamental birthrights that Gaia freely provided timelessly since before life itself in Bangkok, in Beijing, Taipei, Mexico City, Shanghai and many others? A simple failure to respire realises the disturbing truthful notion that whatever Gaia freely bestows; humans are quick to take away or impose a premium charge for enjoying the quality. Additionally; there is no fundamental reason why accumulated detritus of the developed world and newly emergent economic nations; could not be recycled more.

Cost and Economics: As outlined in the Environmental Economics chapter our critics argue without extensive empirical evidence; that environmentalism harms economic growth. Besides; economics isn’t everything. One only has to look at the living standards of those countries favouring environmental and human welfare such as those of Scandinavia and the Seychelles over others such as the USA; Russia and Eastern Europe, not to mention the Southeast Asian “Tigers” –e.g. Hong Kong, Korea, India and China. Isn’t the quality of life evidently important? Healthcare; parks etc. are all dependent upon the environment. And we would configure human settlements to be not so dense. It is possible to be eco-designed and permit the environment. Our critics seem to ignore the necessity and value of conserving the environment. They seem to ignore the impact of a clean environment on improving our health, welfare, inspiration and survival along with other cities. It also extends the lifespan of resource usage so that not only future profits but futures themselves are possible within the next century.

Globalisation cannot postpone the credit payments with compound interest that Earth is now demanding of us. This forthcoming century will be the time we pay. For it has already been postponed too long to the point of our species complacency. Taking it for granted reduces even our lacklustre performance to reform so far. It has squandered our chances and now the Final Tally is due; the Final Reckoning matters. We will have to pay and our 74

choices narrow with every passing moment. We have considered what those choices might be according to specific objectives and a fixed timeframe for every human being upon this planet to take their part… voluntarily and overtly… or covertly… The logistics may be challenging. But without global participation and coordination any actual attempt is bound to fail… And this time we cannot afford to. The consequences of mistakes will be far more fatal. Thanks to the pace of technological advancement and globalisation all species/ ecosystems, have become so much more vulnerable. That is where ecological literacy; true ecological literacy and planetology and real reforms have to come in… This treatise is willing to consider any other perspective. But it mostly calls for leadership and decisions… a coordination of individuals; movements and collective organisation efforts to do something.

Uncertainty with Scepticism! Our opponents have not really argued convincingly why stalling and not reforming is less essential, affordable, efficient; dependable; cleaner than actually implementing the reforms. We are willing to debate –Are they? But we do not seek to be stonewalled and stalled forever. The essence of our eco-activism espoused by this treatise openly supporting all efforts passive and more militant to defend the planet and to guarantee change. Ours at least provides a means of progressing forth. They would advocate nothing to resolve the greater scarcity of resources that will soon seriously affect us all within this lifetime/time frame. If people think that they are actually prepared and are ready –Challenge them. Question their assumptions in taking the universe and Nature for granted. Or for not acting! All they do is carp, bicker and complain. Or else they foster the more dangerous illusion there is no problem or that technology will solve everything (Then why isn’t it)? All the technology in the world is meaningless –without the human will to reform and implement them. (And that is considering more than the insignificant fraction devoted to real issues of the environment not frivolous one’s of consumerism industrialisation and military expenditure) Besides; actual regulations; reforms etc. may have some compliance costs. But in the future, they will have greater certainty and guaranteed lower costs. Besides, forewarned is forearmed. It is time we do something in the absence of any convincing reason stating why we should not do something.

Ideology – belief in markets; not in government is perhaps one of the most dangerous of all obstacles to environmental reform. Relying on markets created the notorious “tragedy of the commons” leading over-usage of the common lands in medieval villages or overfishing in the Atlantic. When a resource is open and free to all, it is not conserved but often exploited by all. No one has an incentive to conserve and protect that resource if they try to save some for tomorrow –another will step in. If you go to the supermarkets and other shops produced by global capitalism, there is seldom any evidence of any rational inventory checking against demand and supply of markets (contrast to the claims 75

of most orthodox textbooks). Communism is flawed in not guaranteeing a sufficient amount. But a system of capitalism/global imperialism that fails to consider rationally what the environment can afford to extract and what consumers need in ordering huge surfeits of stocks and makes no attempt to acquire products produced organically; is equally flawed. The inherent waste of capitalism lacks wisdom and forethought and in lacking preparation ensures huge quantities are spoiled. Capitalism could gain higher profits if it planned sufficiently. Assessing stockpiles, acquiring smaller volumes more frequent intervals for fresh produce might ensure less wastage. Products should be sourced as locally as possible (ceteris paribus looking for cost and other factors). There is an unknown and overestimated quantity of fresh products that supermarkets ought to buy before it perishes instead of fobbing it off on consumers. Too many products have ridiculously short expiry dates based on inefficient logistics distribution networks, inadequate storage conditions and other factors. Others cause products to expire soon to sell more unscrupulously –despite the fact; the product could last longer, especially in technology and clothing. Consumerism is the antithesis of the environment, being about maximising sales and trade volumes. But excessive inventories only mean that many products expire without being sold. These therefore incur all environmental and other financial costs for no purpose at all.

Belief in Self-interest. Those who are fighting reforms; often clearly have a vested interest and benefitting themselves in some way i.e. publicity/enrichment; promotions etc. Why else would they oppose something so fundamentally benevolent to every single sentient entity of whatever species on this planet? Why fight reform? They are clearly guilty and reform is evidently necessary. If this treatise is unconvincing scientific evidence itself proclaims it along with the attached reference list below and many other experts, published works, documentaries etc. One only has to consider the credentials of the opposition –the flaws in their analysis; their funding sources, actions, lack of principles etc… to realise that self–interest not logic validate it. It is suspicious how much clout these lobbyists have, given their ulterior motives for self-interest, when they fight reform and regulation claiming that self-regulation works even better.

Self-regulation has never worked. It is a clear euphemism and naive attempt; which has seldom prompted corporations and governments to act out of unadulterated idealism. They have to see how something personally increases profits or appeases vociferous voter factions/lobbies before they are willing to act. I have contacted thousands of so-called stakeholders professing to believe in eco-sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Virtually all were hypocrites and cannot be bothered to apply their website principles. The pressure has to come from their consumers and political constituents, the media; the power of bad publicity –or being forgotten in well-deserved oblivion and bankrupted. We need to exercise that power. For appealing to their compassion and passive resistance 76

that is presently tried will not work. Nor will the other feeble tactic resorted to convince humanity to gain more information and mass education then they will act. Many know what they are doing and why they are doing it –and the costs involved. As long as they can enrich themselves while others pay the cost and states allow them to get always with it; polluters will continue to pollute. Even if the commercial sector did see the benefit of complying (in lowering costs or because they feared legal repercussions); to them; there is the old problem. As soon as they comply with one environmental requirement, governments or international organisations draft another one, raising compliance costs. Besides so few of them seriously receive attention and are enforced. They factor in that they might as well just pay the token fine and not comply in the rare event that they are actually caught and convicted.

But surely so many cannot be that blind or insensitive? It makes no sense. We cannot just consume and produce forever to no end; without purpose. The planet can only take so much... How many fail to see such basic common sense or simple mathematics/ economics that our world and her resources are finite? It may have the potential to be infinite but how could it, given our relentless greed, never allowing the planet the rest and recuperative recovery it clearly needs? That is the lapse we wish to grant in the Ecological Resurrection and Dune Saga. In addition; we will minimise our collective and individual impact upon our world. We will require others to also perform necessary sacrifices to save the terrestrial environment, especially its ecosystem (aerial, aquatic and land-based). We will recycle, revive, replenish and terraform… but in an ecological manner. This means turning our urban wastelands into ecological wildernesses; restoring our cities to include nature and transforming human desires to realistic levels… There can be no denying that our planet needs a respite from the avarice and cupidity of the human race, whom has accelerated its demands-by a population explosion the planet was never meant to reasonably sustain. It needs a break from an ideology/method of existence including an economic/political system that sees no sense in balance/self-discipline and voluntary restraint, but becomes ever more perpetually voracious. If humans do not identify this –and desist, who can predict what will happen? After all; how much can any species, anthromorphism, organic/sentient entity take, even when it is a global ecosystem?

We are pro-consumer sovereignty but not at the expense of the planet. Nor can we endorse it; for the sake of enriching a few megalithic corporations; bureaucrats and politicians –n the short term. Besides; even polluters value their health and a clean environment for them to live personally. Do they want to relinquish that as well? What price do you place on your life? Or for your health? If people are prepared to put a value and refuse to sacrifice so much on things that really matter to them, then they should include this to the environment as well. They should also defy and resist those who interfere so with the quality of life, their environmental welfare and other benefits. 77

Otherwise; they are being inconsistent, hypocritical and malevolent towards their planet. Or else; they clearly do not value their world enough to deserve its full range of environmental benefits. Perhaps these could be systematically reduced until they modify their behaviour.

If we are to be serious, we need to use this debating approach to appease the sceptics. But change cannot be so gradual as current piecemeal attempts have been. Sporadic attempts will fail to advance and save our species. Think of any achievement – did we get there by sheer random attempts at reform, here and there? Or did we seek to provide a logical sequence of progression –or at least tried to coordinate and organise our efforts. Those who are trying will remain powerless if doing things and seeking to change the world’s attitude and effort to the environment alone! Our options for change are boundless. A system of taxes on petroleum consumption and taxes on the impact of industry, fines for not recycling and littering all help to place a value on the environment. Many environmental economic proposals could be adopted. The ecological way could become mandatory for all government/NGO projects and public–private partnership developments. It is more likely to create sustainable employment and economic growth, based on production and consumption of many goods and services currently unavailable in ecological alternatives. How serious are we about the concept of environmental reform? Or is it something that makes many people cagy, given that there appear few viable ways of achieving it, (another purpose to this treatise).

If it is to be meaningful as more than just some lofty and elevated principle that is only seriously entertained by a mere handful of environmental activists, then it has to become tangible in so many quadrants. It has to encompass all across the spectrum and parameters of every part of human existence. In this, in the fate of our planet, we are all stakeholders. And like any stakeholder; we need to truly assess our perspective. We need to determine whether or not, we can trust on others to value our planet and lives as much as we value them. And this is addressed to those who value anything about the conditions necessary for their lives/health/welfare/prosperity. For without the planet these are all meaningless aspects. Given that leadership, most religions, philosophies, political systems; intelligentsia, political, economic and social systems, science and technology have seriously screwed it up. And realistically; let’s face it; they really have got it wrong. Otherwise we wouldn’t be in such a parlous state would we, close to disintegration… chaos, the collapse of the web of life itself? We might have had greater time and options…. Luxuries that we and those who follow are now denied, thanks to the ignorance and hostility of the ruling elite and of the indifferent/apathetic masses throughout the centuries…

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It is also necessary to propose reasonable alternatives to the Third World socially, economically and environmentally, especially as a condition of aid. The First World for once in its life must publicly confess to the Second and Third Worlds: “We screwed up –Don’t follow our mistakes!” It is their chance to prevent the rest of the human species from compounding the environmental disintegration further. For now, we can learn from their mistakes. That is perhaps the advantage of being part of the Second and Third World –we have the advantages and the opportunities that they forfeited. We can achieve an eco-economy –bypassing industrialisation to specialise in value added services and products. This includes selling those most cost efficiently to the switched off First World, who doesn’t appear to have thought of it on a planetary scale, despite it being such a glaringly obvious market possibility. Those who have the more sustainable growth pattern, economic diversification and usage will be the ones that survive the best. In an era of climate change/terraforming, as a planet morphing and convulsing with the detritus of humanity, the time impact delay lag mechanism has finally uncoiled. We can even use their eco technology to benefit without having to develop the research and development ourselves For catch up and convergence growth out of poverty and improving the quality of life, it is not necessary to follow the old, historically flawed methods of development that never valued the environment.

Arguments against people who are trying to transform human’s anti-ecological attitude often include.

1: Those arguments by the apologists.

This represents the constituency of those who support pollutant generating industries –mainly from ulterior motivations of being paid by them and other reasons. As apologists; they have considerable resources, influence and power. But more than that they are aided through the passivity; apathy or contempt of the multitude. This is especially includes those who recognise the environment does have problems and yet do nothing. We would prohibit those with ulterior motives/conflicts of interests when it comes to the ultimate public good, the environment. They must be exposed, removed from power and influence They must pay for any environmental damage they could have avoided –both directly and indirectly. We can no longer tolerate them as having far more power but lacking a conscience. They are defending the indefensible. This is one area which none of us can afford to gamble. This is because of the almost certain probability we face of meddling so much, that we stuff up the performance of the ecosystem that keeps everything going so brilliantly without us.

Just think of how much damage that needs to be reversed. Just think how many problems that need to be solved. Just think how little time there remains to do something… Aren’t

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they numerous; complex; convoluted and exhausting already? Do we really desire or need any more? We challenge those who willingly, ignorant or otherwise; embrace more polluting ways, whenever and wherever alternatives do actually exist. We want them to justify their resistance as apologists. It is time to always ask ourselves: Why? We wish to know if there can be any legitimate and excusable validation that allows environmentalism and reform to be a blasphemous profanity that no one dares to do something about and reverse… (Look at all those that have died and sacrificed to conserve other species; to make this place a fit place for all who dwell upon it not just humanity –and those devoted to researching other species; appreciate the finite nature of our world. We need to challenge every assumption those who resist the need for change –to be pro planet – “Green” First have. We need to do so until they no longer feel certain, while ensuring our own environmental counterarguments are soundly defended with well-constructed logic. As environmentalists we must take the offensive and initiative and embrace any policy –even resistance, rebellion, civic insurrection… an armed struggle… and revolution as our predecessors sought to do for so many. For; unlike the apologists; we have the noblest, most enriching and natural of causes in defending against the vilification and assault upon the planet herself.

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Another major source is that of those who support the status quo of globalisation –because they follow the Panglossian approach –this is the best of all possible worlds. They pretend there is nothing we can do as humans –or very little. So, let us be apathetic and not worry and just be defeatists. But only those that have neither an interest in the human world or the natural world that makes it possible to thrive or even survive; ought to feel this. Our planet is the most significant anthromorphism in the entire universe because it remains the birthplace and sole verifiable location of humanity. A variant is to believe erroneously that the government and the private sector alone will save us and we do not have to do anything. Those reactionaries despise the blatantly obvious that relying on voluntary self-discipline of corporations, the amorphous “invisible hand” entities and individuals throughout the ages; has only resulted in the polluted world which we in this modern age, find ourselves in.

Why do we as humans not seek to abandon that which has so clearly failed us? Our policy of interference in the world and the planet might benefit better from benign neglect than meddling via raping and pillaging. When so much has failed and continued to fail us, we have nothing to lose and everything to benefit as producers, consumers and members of the community, to persist without considering long-term consequences is the utmost foolishness? The only thing we appear to neglect is that of reform. The most vital thing remains always to do something, not just to parrot it Why not embrace something that at

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least has the potential to do something? It is not as if being environmentally proactive could hasten the pace of climatic transformation any more than we have already done so. Why do we continue to support those who lack our best interests, especially through apathy? Apart from publicity, profit and influence the private and public sectors seek self-advantage. They have no other consistent principles that inspire anyone with any intelligence. They seldom value the planet’s resources and fragile natural equilibrium for its ecosystem, the beauty and the other blessings from Gaia. After all it implies we don’t really cherish those interests/principles either if we opt for representatives/commercial products that embody the very antithesis of all that we ought to stand for and believe in… The environment as a universal principle should be paramount to every human, until it is sufficiently stabilised to weather our impact, no matter how long that takes… even generations…

Another aspect of those that oppose anything substantial include corporations and governments –who refuse to do anything more than symbolic gestures if even that. We all need to embark on a collective and individual noble quest in which we could all take part as humans to save our planet. They and many of their paid lobbyists; media spokespeople; academics; scientists and technocrats they employ; refuse to contemplate the environmentally alternative solutions applied globally. And why should they, when the government provides greater incentives to the old, more polluting ways and the public refuses to modify its consumption habits at all? If the market worked we wouldn’t have this problem... Unfortunately; a clean environment and ecological economics still remains unjustified to many. Hence the issue of negative externalities exists. It’s simple economics, if you can shift the costs so others pay not you, most will do so unless compelled or persuaded the benefits exceed the costs. Adopting and enforcing the “polluter pays” principle for every gram of pollutant emitted that isn’t more than offset somewhere else; is one of the most basic ways to resolve this. And we should make them pay. This is not just to rely on celestial phenomena and natural disasters but to prove to the Gods and to Gaia that we do in fact cherish the blessings that we have gotten. It affirms we are aware of the fragility of our achievements; valuing each moment of the life we are granted, aware of the consequences.

3: A very small; fringe sect of scientists are further opponents, who publicise the uncertainty of this approach and the unreliability of data claiming anything can be misinterpreted. As humans we rely upon candour and democracy as a government initially determined by a popular consensus. We do not believe in supporting the vocal minority who render themselves oblivious to the evidence of their own sensory perceptions. There are other misguided critics who support them, including general sceptics... Under this falls all those critics of environmentalism who vigorously oppose anything environmentalists seek to do without providing anything constructive in return. As the old aphorism goes: 81

“Those who can’t do –criticise!” This treatise may not compile every single environmental dilemma ever contemplated. But at the very least it aspires to not have abdicated and surrendered like too many. It works at providing several ways of progressing forward; examples of hope and reforms; as well as practical ways of accomplishing a transformation; motivating humanity to be responsive to the plight of others; to self-correct its mistakes concerning its relationship with Earth and to other species.

These adversaries argue that climate change is inevitable! Or they proclaim it doesn’t exist. They deny that something should be done. They argue that it is too uncertain. They criticise that it is too costly. They argue that it is something caused by the planet. As if! There are a whole host of contradictory arguments; flawed logic and other issues which prevent the anti-environmental apologists. This includes those who persecute conservationists from providing a credible defence of their persecutions or their unwillingness to reform. We who serve as exponents of the environmental cause have often been accused of many things. At least we are not being inconsistent. We state clearly what our principles are and how to reform. We must solidify what change is necessary and we strive to act. We are not ashamed to publicise our beliefs and principles We must be tenacious and courageous enough to act upon them, hoping others can be.

At least our leadership and our founding philosophy strives for this via ecological literacy; the emancipation of species; the restoring our planet to an ecological optimum. It includes the transfer to an eco-philosophy or Way of Gaia to solve many of humanity’s problems. This is elevated as the religion pantheism… compatible with others as the sole means of uniting humanity… to create a worthy, enlightened and prosperous future. It means transforming the consuming economy into one ecologically sustainable. It incorporates an Astronautical Odyssey in colonising space, to lessen our impact upon this ecosystem, giving it a chance to clear and revive. These are our visions... We do not seek to hide our motives, the potential costs or benefits. Nor do we seek self-enrichment but the welfare of all species, as evaluating the reforms of not only this environmental treatise –but any one… will demonstrate conclusively. We are not… and never will be hypocrites… How many so-called leaders that guide globalisation, materialism and secular Darwinism can that be said of?

We of the environmentalists may often be dismissed as idealists. But at least we have ideals. At least we have something worthy of believe; that merits defending and is valid in fighting for: our planet the welfare of all species and a future. What are the ideals of those who oppose the environmental cause? What are the principles of those who believe that such extreme, radical and innovative solutions as we are suggesting are too much and unrealistic? At other times those who espouse a pro-planet ethos are often jeered and

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heckled at as being too pessimistic as harbingers of eternal suffering). But isn’t that another contradiction? We are realistic enough to recognise the need for transformation. But we believe that currently humans have not conceded enough and that there is so much more that needs to be achieved. We also have pride in our ecological heritage. We wish for natural wonders and any sentient species to remain preserved and present for us to marvel and benefit from, spanning a multigenerational era. We value our advances and achievements. But unlike those who defy, ridicule; belittle and chastise us, those who loathe the environmental cause or are indifferent/lethargic at best; we treasure them enough not to undermine those achievements any further. Unlike those who oppose us –who do not appreciate the need that exists to save our homeworld; we remain confident that we have the potential to aid humanity to see that the environment is the only way forth for us all.

4: These will not be the only ones who criticise environmentalism; our cause and our decision to accept rather than shirk responsibility. The public, especially the marginalised poor, who cannot encompass how globalisation and the history of humanity’s pollutant legacy might have an impact upon their lives for the worse –seldom for the better. Those of the developing world, who justifiably and deservedly are perplexed to note why the First World was allowed to rape the environment to enrich itself but they cannot. As outlined elsewhere; we need to persuade them of the potential environmental benefits, especially in longer life spans and in jobs. It has to be made clear to them; they need to receive ecological literacy and find a way to improve their material status and lifestyle, but not at the expense of the planet. The old ways of development and poverty eradication historically through industrialisation is no longer valid, particularly given its vulnerability to factors such as the recent economic recession (starting in 2008). Why do we wish to reconstruct the abysmal failings of the past? Why continue to experience the same economic cycles, when we can smooth business; production and consumption cycles; through renewable energy and endorsing environmentalism…

To those who argue: what is the loss of yet another species? It isn’t really going to affect me and my life. They do not understand the symbiotic relationship which Nature and the Elementals of Olympus use to make life possible. Virtually every species acts synergistically making other species exist/restricting numbers through competition etc. –apart from Humanity. Our species is the only one that does not contribute but only takes. Therefore; it is we who are more dependent on the planet and other species; than they are of us. Any who still wonders; after this treatise; why avert the extermination of even a single, simple species; should just imagine the consequences for other species including our own? And yet; has anyone considered; what would it mean for the planet and all species including ourselves; if even one of those niches and their feedback loops were to disappear? Can our technology, which is always proclaimed to be our salvation and our 83

Messiah; solve every problem? Could we clone or bring back every species and if so; would they be compatible with other life forms and the natural process? There are natural constraints to our species reminding us –to be cautious. It teaches us not to endorse hubris and to respect our fellow species and our anthromorphism Gaia. Even if we do not respect each other, we could cooperate to save our world from ourselves…

5: Hypocrites include those ruling in government-who even when they pronounce lofty environmental goals; are unable to do nothing but procrastinate. How can we trust those that speculate and pontificate but when it comes to the actual point; the brink of doing something; then they flop enormously. They implement legislation but refuse to enforce it. They would seek to postpone the problem as much as possible. Most of the time they profess to be devoted to conservationism – but not in their personal habits and behaviour. Of course; ordinary people and companies who preach the cause; but still believe in a highly pollutant/environmentally detrimental manner are also hypocritical as long as their personal lives continue to betray their often spoken but never realised proclaimed principles, ideals, dreams and objectives. This is especially true for all those organisations and individuals professing some green credentials or concerns as “greenwashing”.

6: The media who either sensationalise it; underplay its significance with dubious facts or draw the wrong sort of publicity; as if the truth about the environment wasn’t startling and gripping enough. It is difficult to persuade others to take the cause of active environmentalism seriously, when scientists and the media cannot provide as single updated set of consistent facts and agree on the implications and effects of the environment. Unfortunately; as was once quoted the news is often; a regurgitated; often repeated; instantaneous, 48 hour entertainment cycle. Fake news on social media is even worse, transmitted instantaneously without credible filters. Rather than a process of information it seeks to divert and persuade. It suppresses the potential for extended debating and interaction. They also seldom present unbiased coverage when it comes to ecological activists. Most show them negatively as potential. When the media start taking the environment seriously as a cause then they might have an invaluable role –otherwise not. Newspapers would be more convincing if they used recycled paper and advertised more appropriate news features and advertorials).

7: Unfortunately; it is not only the politicians; businesses; the public; intelligentsia and the media; who are not helping this policy from so much uncertainty. Too often the very people; organisations; intelligentsia and communities that are theoretically devoted to the environment spend too much time on waffle or token gestures; not action. Most of the time they deteriorate into factionalism or squabble and bicker among themselves; frenetically competing for more members; resources and publicity. Yet they are not actively doing something for the environment. Many do not help their own cause but

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critiquing government and corporations; instead of brainstorming feasible solutions... They need to also identify the problems, the facts and consequences, not just in dry technical languages but in a way that helps those seeking to market or adopt solutions.

Each of these must be answered convincingly in turn if this debate is to be persuasive enough for people to actually respond and reciprocate, to champion the eco-challenge! All these factions not only have to be persuaded that the problems exist. They need to be persuaded that solutions exist; that they are necessary and attainable. But most of all; they need the resolve to unite together to actually do something. There are those already committed. But more time needs to be devoted not to the elite but to the masses, in the developed and the developing worlds. The whole approach cannot be placed in isolation. Think too of the pragmatic argument for ecological conservation. Do we need to spell out the purpose of an ecosystem? Do we need to spell out the potential research spillover effects as well? But then most critics are ecologically illiterate or forgot basic ecology if they were ever taught it. Without nature, without other species –our lives would be dismal and swift! Bugs and weeds for example are essential to most species. To those who argue there are so many species and it doesn’t matter if we lose a few... Every single species has a purpose. Each has a potential point. That is why Gaia brought them into existence. We just might not have found it yet. A vast unappreciated trove of medicine/nutrition and other purposes, such is the undisclosed possibility from the biodiversity that a fecund Gaia has so thoughtfully provided. Countless examples exist.

The pragmatic argument in favour of financing any environmental policy through taxes – on petroleum to promote cleaner alternatives. At the moment one is already taxed on petroleum. The question is it sufficient to prompt people to call upon for meaningful change? Many people are taxed in a number of ways to pay upon their contributions to society; their impact and consumption of public goods and for far less worthy government and other forms of expenditure. Why should they not specifically be taxed in proportion to their environmental impact? That way not only does it incorporate the widely advocated polluter pay’s principle, given the marginal social cost often exceeds that of the marginal private cost. We are paying. Some of us are incurring even psychological; mental and emotional/physical anguish directly. Why can we not find a way to fairly and justly; distribute this equitably, especially to those who deserve it? Too often meaningful environmental reform has been averted on the basis of cost as insufficiently economical/ impractical to achieve. But given humanity’s disposition towards the environment-to continue to pollute and not reform, this fiscal and other punitive measures if properly endorsed might achieve an attitude change. This should provide all the resources one could possibly need to finance the environmental reforms needed to save this planet.

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Why be so enslaved and base your entire economy on a single vulnerable commodity? Strategically heightened dependency on the finite resource of oil makes geopolitics conditional on a pollutant resource, whose negative externalities are social not private. This enriches dictators flush with petrodollars. Energy poverty matters –especially to countries like mine; where Eskom the Electricity Supply Commission of South Africa embarrassingly failed to think ahead. In 2007/ 2008 experienced severe blackouts paralysing the economy and our reputation immensely. Politically this issue is ignored at its peril –as several politicians have paid the price. The Australian Prime Minister John Howard failed to ratify the Kyoto Climate Change Treaty in the 1990’s CE. Subsequently; he lost the elections on this issue when Kevin Rudd assumed the post of Prime Minister being elected primarily on his resolve to ratify this among others. Others were elected on the grounds of the environment prominently including the ecological successes of the Seychelles; Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe among others. However; a good many leaders still have to be made accountable to the necessity of change. This needs more beyond meaningless ratifiable international model laws; treaties and conventions and summits, which pollute far more than they contribute in meaningful pollutant reduction. We should probe into the personal lives of those who comprise their leadership and their characters. This applies to the leaders of the world’s political factions, economic strongholds/corporations; the influences of the media –Fourth Estate, social celebrities, scientists the intelligentsia; religious leaders; NGO’s and those most prominent to assess their true affiliations and commitment to the global challenges facing us. The ecological and climate change chaos concerns us all –or which ought to!

We should then assess the degree to which they have compromised and served as hypocritical examples to follow. If they command the world to reform but fail to lead otherwise. In exchange; we should empower those as activists whom for all their flaws, have the decency to try and change; It is logical to elevate those who serve by personal example and heed the consequences of their actions; living ecologically and sensitive to all forms, empathising the welfare of all species; not just prattle as hypocrites. One day in turn we will evaluate our leadership on the various criteria in which they have failed to serve the human race, as compensation for the power to which we have entrusted them. With their evident failures especially ecologically, we shall sentence them to the oblivion they deserve and become more active… We seek a world; in which every human cares sufficiently about their planet; is not only willing to act personally but prompts their leadership to do so. Many leaders are too currently entrenched with the anti–planetary materialist model often called “global capitalism.”

We have to wonder: “What are the priorities?” Will they ever do anything or just waffle further? Only once we have determined these and found a way to avert a significant number of the incessant multiplying of our species population/ demand for resources; to 86

change ecologically will things be radically different. Once we sufficiently dream to resolve these priorities that makes the world so dangerously egotistical and human focused and to act, will any environmental change actually occur. We also have to be asking ourselves earnestly: “Is this the kind of world we want to be living in? Do we want to continue like this? Equally significant; is can we trust our leadership/others to solve our problems for us? Surely the planet is the same as any other problem we have? Are any of these answerable to governments and companies alone? No; to a great extent it relies on each and every one of us, whether or not we agree with these and whether we altruistically perceive ourselves to be ecological Crusader Knights.

Ultimately; it depends on us to take the initiative. When we as humans care enough to demonstrate some sense of self-will and self-restraint to control ourselves and vehemently determine that we, ourselves will no longer let others determine our priorities; then things can progress for the better. When we are willing to modify our consumption habits; to control our lives; fates; perspectives; futures… our values, ideals dreams, we will have a chance to save our planet. This has to matter especially as we are all so dependent on the environment being able to sustain us at a level that we are used to. Until then affairs will only get far worse. We will have no one to blame but ourselves for our indolence and our complacency. For we alone are accountable to the planet and those other forces out there for our ecological genocide, especially towards other species… Unless of course; that is what we want… that is what our leadership desire. For unless most of us feel some semblance of loyalty and gratitude towards that sacrosanct, puissant source, enough to do something about our behaviour the cycle of ecological decay and of abrupt climatic spumes fissuring… will continue. It all depends on whether we aim to modify our destructive addictions i.e. recycling; energy conservation and heat insulation; consuming organically; reducing our waste, walking extensively not polluting vehicles etc. It means believing and doing whatever it takes and supporting those others trying.

It is also interesting to note how so many are prepared to sell and compromise supposed ecological credentials, when the developers start offering significant financial or other material incentives. And yet when it runs out… what then? No one has answers! When we stop sensing the planet as something merely to extract resources from to over-satiate our carnal orgy of perpetual instant gratification as the binge of the millennia, without rejuvenation… replenishment… balance, hope exists. When we behave more normally and consider Gaia as worthy of respect; appreciation and concern, only then can we be considered a worthy species that deserves the many great privileges of experiencing the miracles of life–and the natural world. This is even if we do not venerate it to the degree we should exalt and glorify the Lifesource that tolerates our repeated violations towards it. Alas; so often humans automatically indulge their whims without feeling any sense of guilt towards the environment. Many feel no guilt or compassion, interfering in the rights 87

of other species to life, liberty, prosperity, satisfaction and the right to pursue one’s own life as free as possible. They remain oblivious, just insensitive or contemptuous…

People continue to indulge in these addictions and the vice of abusing the environment is something that needs to become politically and socially unacceptable. At the moment there is too much tolerance and indifference. This occurs when we observe and permit –even minor lapses and errors in how we as humans should behave towards other species and in being environmentally sensitive/appreciative. We cannot afford the externalities and the effects on other species. We as humans ought to not wilfully accept the actions of others who show such contempt towards the planet, who are as addicted to their own self-interest or corrosive ways. For even if we are virtuous ourselves, our actions will be weakened unless we do whatever it takes by persuasion or coercion to convince others to redeem themselves. Besides there can be no compelling arguments that any of our opponents can present on the basis of efficiency; equity; economically, environmentally, even sheer necessity to validate some of the inane anti-environmental arguments and policies that so many people choose to follow, when it concerns the environment. The task then becomes one of trying to enlighten as many people into this as possible… They need to stop listening to the ways defending the old; polluting; planet swallowing; world sacrificing methods. Yet consider every progress made. Do we really want London killer smog; lead in petrol; CFC’s etc? Once we change, we will not miss these.

Essentially this debate was to elaborate on further arguments –proposition and opposition over the environment. However, many of us appear to not even understand the basic mechanism of how “climate change” or “global warming” operate and the consequences for humanity once proven correctly. For example; enjoy the Great Barrier Reef and snorkelling or scuba diving in the Red Sea/ Caribbean/East Indian Ocean whilst they are still around. For as temperatures rise; seawater will become more acidic destroying coral polyp-based life-forms and other shellfish. The spectacular nature of biodiversity and life will be preserved only in memories; books and museums, as reality ordains a tsunami of extinctions in this forthcoming Century of Storms and Climatic Abrasions. After all; it is going to happen. The meteorological evidence and the dearth of biodiversity, along with the prospects of an ice-free Arctic Ocean make these possibilities even more intriguing and likely…

This treatise also seeks to advance the proposition that experimentation upon nonhuman innocent life forms is speciest. It cannot be justified legally, ethically, economically, commercially, socially, medically and academically. Most of these experiments bear little resemblance to their human counterparts and requirements. They are completely superfluous except to torture other species more intensely. Pain and torture are not normally associated with as virtuous or necessary when applicable to humans. So why

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when it becomes another species; are so many of us programmed and socially conditioned; to passively accept it with serene indifference, with little or no emotion? For example, consider several hypothetical medical discoveries that refute the common claim that it is necessary for medical research. Most great medical discoveries were not made with any connection to do with animals whatsoever. For example; morphine enrages laboratory rats. Yet it has a docile and tranquilising effects upon many humans. Rabbits experience many deformities when exposed to insulin trials in contrast to humans.. One doesn’t need a doctorate on biology and another in medicine to realise that each species is unique. We cannot rely on testing one to assure an applicable solution to our own species as simple common sense that so many scientists callously lack. In most cases; there are non-animal alternatives. Even criminal, unreformable humans deserve it far more than another hapless species.

To conclude; many of the arguments in the great debate over whether or not we should prioritise the environment clearly favour the conservationists upon reflection. This also applies to many unjustifiable examples of animal testing. Our resources and research would be better targeted and more successful if instead of persecuting other species as the majority of current laboratory experiments appears directed towards; on preventive and curative measures. Many are potentially possible without harming nearly as many species or quite such a lethal effect on the natural biome as they currently do possess. The efforts of the present and the past demonstrate that our most fiendish and diabolical challenge is not impossible; is not intractable or insoluble; if we are willing to think about it. Historical examples include restrictions in circuses/commercial exploitation; legislation against bestiality and abusing pets. It is only a manner of time, will and effort… The question remains: Do we want to be a part of it?

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Chapter 5: THE PERVERSION OF SCIENCE

This era has perverted science so that it is about profit and prestige rather than helping us to understand life. This chapter demonstrates that those seeking to embrace an environmental conscience and ethos the Age of Ecology; the Way of Gaia will have to reconfigure the globalised technological artifice. This will assist not accelerate the problems facing all species and all humanity without destruction. Most experiments and research do not adhere to basic scientific principles but at times, willingly seem to choose to torture, exploit and maim the environment. Technology does not seek grounds of efficiency and cost effectiveness. Nor do many applications target sustainability and environmental conservation or even maximising the health, welfare and prosperity of all humans –let alone all other species. A disturbing volume focus on materialism i.e. cosmetics favouring those classes, who consume the planet’s future, gluttonously or concentrates. Can our opponents who continuously defend the rise of globalisation; scientific and technological processes as efficient, economical and responsive to the wishes of consumers in the free market; clarify or defend this? Can they explain the perversions of science in the Warfare Mentality; the failure to resolve many of our problems? Can our opponents otherwise explain on scientific grounds; the basis of so many experiments, whose species have no connection to that of humans?

Ethically, economically, practically and scientifically; science can have no defence for its warping and essential perversion. For so many years many humans had religious and socially imposed sets of moral, ethical standards and principles such as a conscience and empathy towards others. This is often something that science has decided on its own that its acolytes and other followers are immune from such necessary restrictions and

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limitations. They feel exempt from a basic conscience of anyone who is human –i.e. humane ought to follow, especially towards those living beings that are especially innocent towards them; having committed no wrong. But now that they have been taken away from our species and replaced by characteristic doubt and uncertainty that pervades science. They offer nothing to rely upon; no consistent principles or coherent dreams for the human species. They create no objectives defined to accelerate progress, now what? As for the warfare mentality and devotion to warfare that has pursued so many minds enlisted in the pursuit of science – isn’t peace the worthier aim? Human aggression only wastes resources that could be helping all species out of the mess that humanity has perpetrated; Given future resource scarcity, wouldn’t efficiency and the environment both be considered profitable? Besides, who is more brilliant? The one who creates something bold and original and finds a way to preserve it? Or the one; foolish enough to merely destroy it?

On scientific grounds abuse, torture and torment of other species such as dissection and experimentation are far less justified in the case of non-human species then the alternative of using humans. This particularly applies to criminals who are at least guilty of something. Many equally significantly bear some connection to the aims and objectives of the intended experiment especially for medicine and cosmetics; other than on the basis of being a non-human –discrimination on the basis of species. How can science and technology be reconciled with environmentalism and ethics unless it reforms significantly? In its current phase of blatantly exploiting other species, a considerable quantity of research cannot be justified other than to exercise the perversity and sadistic nature of many researchers. A disturbing number appear to conduct experiments not for research purposes but primarily to maim/ murder other species. Consider the wars that are raged on other species –rat poison; insecticide and other weapons against species in order to reduce them… But also consider the majority of medical discoveries –that were worthless and pointless when tested on animals compared to their effects on humans. Insulin causes deformities in rodents and rabbits –but not in humans. Guinea pigs perish from penicillin –whereas humans are cured with it. Morphine inflames rodents while serving as a pain tranquilizer for humans. Besides; what do all these tests really affirm? Beware the so-called Rosenthal effect: Investigators find what they expect to find. The observer affects the outcome of the experiment! Experiments such as these derive no benevolence for humans. They merely demonstrate the results upon other non-human animal species –reacting to artificial conditions, products and environments not reflected of empirical evidence and reality (a basic scientific fallacy).

We have to ask: How many of these experiments are really necessary to enhancing human related research? How can we read this and not be moved to have concern for other organisms? Do we not see their worth in their own right? Even in the rare cases where it 91

can be conclusively proven that they do. This excludes testing cosmetics/other materialist products on animals. If they are not safe enough to test on humans their intended audience then they are not safe enough to test on animals who have no natural requirement or need for these products at all. They are not even receiving compensation other than agony/pain and perhaps even death). Using humans implies voluntary consent. These species receive no consent; no benefit and currently no concern for welfare. Most of these research projects exist not to improve the conditions and circumstances of the majority of people or other species or the environment. But they exist either to enhance the Warfare Mentality (ultimately assisting no one); or else to further provide more products for the jaded; spoilt and overindulged elite percentage of the Second/First Worlds. They can afford to benefit from these developments, despite the glut they already have such access to. Just envision how much of this superfluous luxuries and materialism was built on the ashes of the world they share with the rest of us. Ponder how so many ‘advances” were forged upon the charred bones in a charnel house of other species not just our own. Is this something that we want to continue to perpetuate?

Every laboratory, farm or research facility that professes to use animals for such purposes will be examined requiring a vet/animal psychologist; environmental rights lawyer/ethics activist to represent the rights of the victim. They can determine whether or not it is really necessary. They will also determine whether licences to operate are permitted or not. We cannot voluntarily rely on the private/government sector to choose to self-regulate. Too often life is considered cheap and disposable. It is easier to replace than to care for, especially when it comes to other species. As a conditioning of any public funding the welfare of a nonhuman subject will not be biased on the basis of whether or not they are granted the legal privilege (and no other) of belonging to the human species. They will all have to be treated with ethical considerations legally bound by a written contractual agreement. This is necessary; given the horrendous legacy of the past, that has been well documented. Never again will we be permitted to have the complacency attached to violating other species that has so shamefully disgraced the human species in the names of scientific research and consumerist consumption for so long. There must be alternatives Human ingenuity has managed to find substitutes in many things. Surely when it comes to product testing, when it comes to the environment, given how absolutely critical it is; we could possibly think of at least a few?

In reforming we would banish those vetinarians, zookeepers, game rangers, animal psychologists and others who clearly exhibit speciesism and clearly fail to prioritise the health, welfare and prosperity of other species. Massachusetts passed a law prohibiting confiscating stray/abandoned animals in pounds to exploit commercially and scientifically in the name of “research” and “biomedical” experiments. Science would not be convincing if it claims other species are necessary that there are no other options –when their 92

prototypes incur such problems. Only those that are genuine should be allowed to become keepers and custodians. We would encourage greater ecological literacy of all. We’d prioritise inter-species communication and healing. We can focus on other species psychology, even dog and horse Whisperers, anything to attain the equality of species. But it is more than just the equality of species, especially those just as capable and full of potential; just as worthy of rights from what they contribute to humanity and to the ecosystem as our species which does not pay for what it takes; that this treatise urges conservation movements to aspire to… Their health, welfare and prosperity; their needs and priorities should mirror the significance with which we so generously and unthinkingly bestow upon our fellow human beings. Yet we primarily avoid quantifying to the same extent, whether many of the human species are worthy of such liberties or are not.

In its quest for fame, profit, for prestige, prizes, citations, power and influence; science has not only lost the moral compass it has lost the virtues and principles upon which it was founded upon. But why are scientists so willing to endorse such unscientific methods; evidence and approaches? Besides; what sort of an example are they setting for others to follow by implicitly or explicitly endorsing means of species cruelty which society and education now find even more acceptable. This is as if the monotheist speciest campaign of Islam, Judaism and Galileanism; globalisation and attendant secular Darwinism was insufficient. The manner in which to approach science–should be that which we have learnt from Nature. We can learn more from basic natural observation than artificial circumstances. To employ common sense, curiosity, the faculty of wonder, the spirit of discovery; passion, persistence, the desire to improve welfare; advance species, fathom the natural and the celestial, whatever happened to these objectives when science still radiated with the purified essence of natural philosophy instead?

It is these though which will have to be revitalised with the objective of persistent; dedicated natural inquiry and persistence. We would use this not just to enrich a few but to help our planet; its ecosystem and its species to survive… This means to magnify our chances of doing so by transforming our economy; technology; method of warfare and the lack of scientific ethics/ disobeying of basic empirical findings into a science that is not perverted into something degenerate. This produces more problems in turn as consequences than it resolves. It must shift into the science of humanity that deserves popular support to actively work with environmentalists, governments, consumers, the media and companies/NGO’s and other stakeholders in the planet’s future. All of us are crucial to help salvage our future. At the moment this might facilitate research that is necessary. According to numerous media; journals and other sources; current scientific discoveries, experiments and hypotheses focus in the minor, cosmetic, trivial and the inconsequential. It appears not so much about devising new means of achievements but in refuting existing theses. Science needs to reawaken fascination with the natural world 93

with questions and heeding what we can learn from Gaia. It does not need to seek artificial circumstances or mindless indoctrination. Consider scientific textbooks and general books that ask questions and provide basic theory facts but then no matter the spectrum of science/knowledge concerned, allows the students to find out their own interests Harnessing it in the service of life; of the species of all life and in revitalising the planet’s ecology via the necessary reforms; new discoveries; experiments and research required shall be its true. This also provides a way for modern science to be reconciled with Conserving Earth/Defending the Planet Ecological Revolution.

We have to ask many scientists and those who influence their funding/experiments why they behave as they do? To any that feel that other animals have no pain capacity threshold; do not feel intelligence or emotions etc, they have nearly never had pets or read basic works in biology/psychology etc. Can they prove me wrong though on this point; when so much published empirical evidence and natural observation/common sense affirms this? Science has become perverse if it relishes in the unnecessary suffering of others, no matter what their species, when it cannot be justified or defended at all. We are not against scientific experiments on the basis of necessity. We spurn human folly and vanity enquiring if there is no other way than to utilise other species. This is like the highly realistic requirement of the present resisting vegetarianism that seeks to raise them for domestic husbandry under nutrition and leather requirements for many humans. This is regardless of the agricultural inefficiency of domestic livestock such as cattle compared to raising organic game or crops). If scientists are as humane/animane as they profess to be, then why cannot they refine procedures, manuals, academic education and experiments to exclude pain; torture; suffering and an agonising; lingering painful death…

But on a virtuous basis; how does it aid them and their research? How can it be valid scientifically? Do they feel nothing towards another life form –ethically? If any asks:” What is wrong with these experiments?” We ask: “How would you like to be poisoned?” How would you like to be castrated; blinded; deafened, tortured, mutilated, sterilised, electrocuted etc? At least you would be more likely to benefit human science and medicine. It would be better to use human prisoners committing mass murder; torture; deliberate rape; treason; planetcide; genocide etc who at least deserve it. This is not just based on their species alone as other animals are tortured so in the names of science, consumerism, warfare and other perverted causes. Does any innocent creature deserve this though, even if we could sufficiently answer the unresolved questions of other species consciousness; intelligence; pain; empathy; emotion etc. This is statistically unlikely given the millions of species that exist, until contact is mutual for all. Pragmatically; how can harming animals help them economically, what of replacements? Are their experiments justified medically when the results are incompatible/inconsistent with humans? How can the manner in which they envision laboratory creatures as worth less than say their 94

mobile phone, computer or IPOD be justified to themselves let alone others. Other species do not deserve barbaric and unjustified enslavement when they have committed no crime or wrong. Most issues derive from human interaction as a provocation or that which is natural to them…

We will continue to have this debate until the perversions of science are purged, whether by legislators; the public or scientific community and others themselves. We launch an appeal to science on behalf of the denizens of all species and in the true spirit of discovery and natural enquiry. This honours those who graced themselves as natural Philosophers –from those of Athens and Alexandria to the Invisible College and Royal Society to the Enlightenment up to this day to ask: Why do they embrace this misinterpretation of true science? Why do they believe as they do? Why do they continue to do so, despite proof to the contrary…? Continue to persuade them to refute their hypotheses and spurious presumptions, in public and private; with a chance to explain themselves. Help them to realise the flaws in their own logic, scientific approach and methodology... Continue to ask how it is compatible with their intended research objectives? How can we possibly on a logical basis, extrapolate the results to humans –f tested on species with differing physical and behavioural characteristics? The only worthy science that can be justifiable on a purely conceptual basis ought to be that which treats all life as sacred. This means other species are equivalent, yet biologically different to our own in terms of physical characteristics but not in the potential capacity for intelligence, creativity, suffering, consciousness; a conscience etc. The only valid experiments should be those that focus on candour. I.e. those concerning members of other species should focus on basing results on other animals in natural not artificial circumstances. This is unless the stated purpose is to consider the artificial and this is cited in the conclusion. Each experiment will require ethical clearance and inspection for the target’s welfare, as a measure that is currently only required for human intervention. It shall become a prerequisite for any publication, dissertation; (conference or seminar upon request); report or other form.

We would expose the treatment of species publicly, arranging for cameras and monitoring sensors if needed –so courts can review the evidence (This can still preserve commercial secrecy). That is why we will empower people to make the prerogative of a citizen’s arrest, accompanied with a fully qualified police officer if necessary. We will allow such evidence if available to be freely declarable in court. More frequent patrol forces –specifically devoted to conservation; greater volunteers; laws etc. The more support and resources; the more efficacious legal enforcement will be. Perhaps then we will acquire compliance. Those of us who are concerned for the welfare of others; who have had pets or encountered/worked with/ observed/ resided with any species as a companion; friend or helper can realise with common sense at the absurdity that they are not capable of reason; of all the characteristics that we as humans ourselves have. We feel that 95

something needs to be done; especially at this opportune time. Humanity is finally entering a new chapter with access to technology, resources; education and other factors to make it more concerned towards the environment; to which it has been so impervious and resilient for far too many centuries of its arrogant domination and ignorant subjugation.

At the moment most of modern science; the media; corporations; governments and other individual critics who perversely do nothing but carp on at those who try to act; appears to be based on nothing more than uncertainty and scepticism. This arrogantly dismisses any attempts to resolve any issue. Most of it seems to be not so much as devising new problems but in losing hope in existing achievements by refuting existing theses rather than inspiring and discovering change. But how does that resolve anything, proving a distraction from what must be done? Yet who is more brilliant; - the one who comes up with the idea in the first place… or the one who merely manages to carp and refute it –or commercially exploit/profit from it for their own purposes? Who has contributed more to humanity; rather than just to themselves? It therefore has to serve a social state purpose. It cannot merely be about commercialism, unless it is to aid in a sustainable “green consumer and producer economy.” It has to become more relevant and focussed as well. As humans we need hope that what we do matters, especially in the short term and that it is not wasted…

Why can science not provide any answers to the problems that face them, even those they do not deny? There are so many problems. Why waste time, money and resources resolving the wrong ones or the trivial ones? The planet in the absence of alternatives must take precedence, in addition to researching the space alternative. Why are those that do deny them; so willing to defend the indefensible? Why not actually prove to us who elevated you into such influential and prominent potent positions; that you have some ideas to save us? Why not validate your vast subsidisation by us as taxpayers and those who pay for your mistakes? Or move over for the ideas of those environmentally minded! It is the same with all critics (Those who cannot do, criticise those who can)! As for those who argue the planet is to blame for changing climatological conditions, they clearly need to review some basic facts of science; history and common sense. Why would the planet act contrarily to common sense; when it has only ever sought to exist for the benevolence and survival of all species? This stands in contrast to our own track record. For how many of us as humans have held such benevolent intentions and made them a reality amid so much lethargy; apathy; ignorance; contempt and hostility, even as we rape; plunder; defile; deflower; desecrate and destroy Her? Before we sought to modify our environment and discharge our tosh into it; did we receive such environmental issues? No. Are these natural? Again no! Do those communities who minimise their impact rather than maximise short term ephemeral gains capriciously; incur as many issues –No! 96

If science was so devoted to the cause of the environment and the impetus of life, its technology would be more efficient and sustainable. And yet it fails to meet these specifications, which the planet needs. Modern technology is built on the premise of recurring upgrades being disposable and polluting. This favours booming materialism rather than prioritising objectives devoted to advancing the human species and reducing its impact. Consider for instance why are our buildings, cities, technology, transport and other aspects of our lives so eco–hostile rather than friendly? Can we really be said to be progressing, when fundamental kitchen and household appliances with the prime exceptions of the microwave and the computer/mobile phone have not fundamentally changed since the pre–eco conscious era, the 1950’s and 1960’s of the common era? Surely science is capable of not being so distracted by perverse materialism, commercialisation, IT, biotechnology or the pursuit of warfare if it so desires? As the Renaissance, the Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution demonstrate it can progress on advancing us –not just on destruction, if channelled correctly? Surely it has not become so tainted and unreformable as to not resolve how to make our existing appliances, dwellings, inventions, gadgets and technology perform with zero wasted energy, pollutants –including sound and light); out of recyclable composite materials; biodegradable etc? Is science capable of serving the environment and humanity? If so –we can champion it as a means of helping us forward. If not; then we need to reform it so that it serves us rather than we being enslaved to it and its perversions.

The question that obviously springs to mind is: “Why do we as humans put up with this?” Why are we so prepared to litter and pollute the world? Do we not value it? Whether or not we do, why are we so clearly willing to tolerate, endorse and endure these crimes, without flinching, let alone whimpering – or actually doing something about it? It is incredible; what we as humans put up with… As consumers… as citizens… as the public… as a community… or as individual human beings, why are we so willing to tolerate this flagrant assault, when we are not powerless to intervene? Economically too why do we continue to consume crap rather than bio-diverse organic produce? It works out being cheaper in the long run? Are we so devoted to the blaring out of Natural birds, amphibians and invertebrates that so many of our devices are based on the vocal enhancement syndrome? These artificially bombard our senses to deny reality, deafening others around us so discourteously? (Have you ever wondered the psychological efforts and social discourtesies of the implication of our actions; not just for other species but that of human beings who are also inconvenience by the distraction/disturbance?) Why do we blind out the glistening constellations and the oohing serenity of the celestial aether? Are we so passionate about materialism that we cannot afford a bit less choice? Are we too inept to turn off unnecessary lights or technology on standby? (In fact, why can science not enforce all lights to be motion sensored to switch off automatically Are we so lazy that we cannot

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recycle or avoid littering by concentrating our noxious produce to minimal points of contact/dumping on the planet?

Again it is incredible that we as humans are prepared to tolerate the perversions of science. We are frequently taught and indoctrinated naively that scientific and technical progress is real, that it does in fact have the potential to resolve our problems. No problem hinders us more than the ecological disaster that we have made of this planet. And yet only a small fringe sector of the worlds’ researchers, leaders and organisations, let alone scientists have done anything to counter this. This includes even the most tentative of steps. It is fantastic that being conditioned so as optimists. that we do not extend this to the planet Hypocritically; action is demanded. But seldom is it acted upon, despite the evident necessity. Not only do we not demand miracles of those with the potential to save this planet, we are prepared to stomach these problems even those of us who complain; allowing them to get worse and worse, rather than exerting whatever consumer/ producer/lobbying/voting/other forms of power and influence we as humans have. For as humans; we have that legal advantage, in the absence of protecting other species to the same degree… But why rely on others when they are so clearly failing? It is up to us to do so on behalf of those that cannot speak, act or defend themselves as well as us. Humans have the task of interpreting human behaviour and actions to other species and to try and progress the rights of others. It is up to us to learn how to cooperate with other species –For they are not the root of our ecological problems. They are capable of functioning in symbiosis. But given our destruction and terraforming; we have a long way to go...

Whenever there is humanity that has artificially thrust its corpulent blubber upon the planet rather than adhering to the natural limits of the harmonised equilibrium, there have been such problems of conflicting with what is natural. This entails seeking to dominate with that which is artificial. The nineteenth to twenty first centuries of the common era- have only accentuated that further, with the emergent looming of hitherto skulking technology. It was only by trying to dominate the Nile; the Yangtze and others with Dams; that the ecosystems which had thrived for aeons, caused problems for agriculture –not to mention submerged other species and our own historical legacy. The Amazon rainforests and tropical loam used to support millions of living organisms. When cleared for cattle; nothing grew –as the nutrients were in the soil... Everyone knows that rainforests are needed as lungs for us to respire normally. (Those in China’s top cities; Mexico City and Bangkok cannot breathe the air) And yet…. Mmmmm; “Shame –pity about the environment.” “Yeah –too bad! Hey; would you like to just go grab a quick hamburger?” The short-sightedness will doom us.

If we were taught about the environment in education, becoming ecologically literate we might be able to be convinced of the necessity for reform. We could gain from all the

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benefits that Nature has to teach us –and be at peace in our world. If we were encouraged to debate these issues and researched them thoroughly. If we were urged to do our part and reform on behalf of the planet and violators received social ostracism as well as criminal prosecution., then we might get somewhere instead of empowering these scientists and other sceptics who sully the peril. Perhaps the best way is reality shock! At school; ecological awareness of our potentially destructive impact is best realised if we force the youth to trace the sources of all locally produced pollution including littering. If they see the horrendous conditions affecting their water; their food (visit a battery farm); their parks etc, forced to inhale and ingest it until they retch(for maximum impact), they might reconsider their decision; as adults and teenagers to treat their world as nothing more than some disposable edifice.

They could adopt an area and take pride in symbolically cleaning it in their community and foisting their revenge on adults –by keeping it as their space. They could monitor violators; chastise and publicly embarrass them. Punishments could involve cleaning up the local environment. An Ecology Literacy Society could be founded in every school and university to promote this. Like debating but unlike sport and music it requires practically no financial or material resources. School, university and hospital plant food gardens –herbariums and organic agriculture could not only encourage horticulture and agronomy as practical skills; but could serve as a nutritional and other useful purposes. At school we could be encouraged to go on wilderness leadership courses to teach us to appreciate our planet by living with it. These would be away from the modern world which distracts us too often from it. If we also visited and inspected geography and ecology on field trips –even local urban ones, we might appreciate and understand it more.

We could be encouraged to debate environmental issues and news. We could have recycling drives and art exhibitions/projects of recycled products/ scrap. Even the poor can become culturally enriched and environmentally appreciative at minimal cost; competitions and other initiatives encouraged; pet days etc. Plus, we could learn how to identify the stars; natural species of flora and fauna especially invertebrates, to discourage fear and hostility towards them. Animal dissections in biology would be discouraged too, rather focussing on other sentient beings as equal is a more compassionate and practical approach to promote. These measures might help us as youths, especially the poor to see the point to conservation, so that it is an attitude embraced more than just by a fringe splinter sect. Our community and faiths we believe in could emphasise the values of the Way of Gaia creating more tree planting occasions; Nature praising festivals and the opportunity to help other species. It might mean symbolically fasting as vegetarians occasionally to show our respect for life and other such ways. This is an opposite tactic to what so many of us do at the moment. Often we seek to escape from the reality of the world if possible, either by roaming to try and find some 99

solitude; less wrecked part; to escape into film; entertainment; some form of diversion such as work or virtual reality…

At the moment when it comes to our planet too many of us do not make up our own mind about these issues. Even where information and education does exist; how much do we ingest and how much do we leave for others to decide? It should be up to us. Why do we want others to determine our lives for us? Do we ever give serious consideration to how much our lives will be affected and how everything will change for the worse, if even a fraction of these issues mentioned here and elsewhere come to pass? As they will… Is this not a reason to act? At the moment other species need our assistance in their liberation and emancipation. They need aid in acknowledging the simple fact that we screwed up Nature’s most precious legacy. It is time for us to not just think but to do something meaningful with the blessing and aureal potential that she has granted not only our species but all organisms in making the miraculous conditions possible in the first place. But this is also our continued good fortune at our survival and that we have been able to progress so well. But will this last?

When it comes to our world; how much do we as a species take for granted? How much do we personally stop to think and appreciate the advances, quality of life, the technology; material progress and other discoveries that for better or for worst have most influenced our lives? The natural world after all is the source of so many things of pleasures, necessities, experiences, lessons, dreams and aspirations! The human world however, as sources of human stress, pain and misery pales into value. We should conserve as much of what benefits us. We should enjoy and consider it while we can. Its sensible to decide whether or not whether it is worth sacrificing some things; in order that that we still retain the technological capacity for renewable electricity, hot water/plumbing, toothpaste, cooking meals by stove or microwave etc. When the resources dwindle to a point where wars are fought over basic stockpiles and ecological limits snap from the population; urbanisation; pollution and economic development pressures imposed upon our beleaguered planet, we should remember what we had before. We will remember how we didn’t value it enough to be considered worth saving in the end. Remember that; next time we opt to blind and drown out the clamours of the natural world seeking our help and attention. Visualise that the next time we will try to drown it all out with a consumer materialist splurge that will never satisfy us. It will never compensate or satiate us the same way as saving our planet from its extinction.

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Chapter 6: The Dune Approach:

“The planet is merely an expression of energy, driven by the sun. What it needs is reshaping to meet the needs of all species dwelling upon her.”

Certain sacrifices must be made. When considering our species’ abysmal tenure as guardians of Gaia, it is self-obvious we caused the problems. It is our sacred burden, our honour, duty but most of all – our privilege: to act now, denying ourselves mindless luxuries in order to obtain future necessities, namely that of life. The planet deserves this much at least from us, considering all that she has blessed us with. This chapter considers that we have many ecological aspects to concern ourselves in ensuring our survival. By recalling basic ecological lessons and prompting reforms to embrace throughout the planet, it considers the necessity of a several thousand year project to rehabilitate the planet to ecological equilibrium. This especially targets reducing human pressures –through space colonisation. It means prioritising resources to ecological reform on a phenomenal planet scale… akin to the Planetologist Frank Herbert and his Dune Saga –The Dune Approach. This radiates to encapsulate every practical idea that fiction; environmentalism, this treatise; individuals, organisations and communities from every continent on this planet (whether mentioned or not to save our world. That is assuming humanity desires it as much as the ecologists. But even if they do not, it is worth saving in itself for the sake of those who do believe in it and for many innocent other species.

“Beyond a critical point within a finite space, freedom diminishes as numbers increase. This is as true of humans within the finite spaces of a planetary ecosystem as it is of gas molecules in a sealed flask. The human question is not how many can possibly survive within the system but what kind of existence is possible for those that do survive?”

How about considering whether or not; humans can possibly be worth it? Aeons have passed; letting humans dominate our world. Given that chance to make this planet worthy; they still have not come close to proving they have any interest in saving any species. Our leadership have yet to try even to convince us; that they are serious about change. Can humans convince us; can they convince other species; the planet and the Gods themselves; that they do care and are willing to act now before it is too late? To quote the Wizard’s Rule: Mind what people do not what they say, for words will betray a lie.” What might be worth more; would be; if we decided to do to undertake the preserving of all species –male/female. This recognises that other species do not deserve

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extinction and that all species have a role to play in the ecosystem. Nature does not make superfluous, pointless or redundant species. We may just not have stumbled across the true purpose yet. Can we honestly not see the sense of preserving as many species as possible, at least until we know how they might benefit not just ecology but our own self-interest? Every problem that we face economic/medical/otherwise might be solvable with the existing species or those that we just caused to become extinct, –oh 15 seconds ago! But to salvage their existence is paramount for the future, as well as to credibly demonstrate that we do care. It decides if are willing to pay the cost, so that life may not itself become a void concept.

“The thing the ecologically illiterate don’t realise about a system is that it is that –a system! A system made up of a fluid stability that can be destroyed by a misstep in just one niche. A system has order –flowing from point to point. If something dams that flow, order collapses. The untrained might miss that collapse until it is too late. That is why the highest function of ecology is the understanding of consequences.”

What is the point of an ecosystem? The myriad answers include: providing respiration through afforestation; nutrition; growth; the function to exist and survive; filter water sources; biodiversity; healing; to inhabit. It includes to harbour insects for crops; to reduce our contamination. We would chronicle it. We’d encourage people to see all of the roles the planet nurtures and helps us as a primordial incentive to conserve. The thing about Gaia’s ecosystem is that only Helios and Selene enter it. Apart from that; the system is sealed –autarchic –self producing! All other resources occur from its self-replenishing meteorological and ecological cycles. We do not rely on the rest of the Macrocosmos for production and consumption. Until we can figure out a way to harness the potential energy, determination and imagination of the human race with the resources of the planet; we are constrained. We cannot find a means of averting the inevitable exhaustion of these scarce, limited ecological treasures that all life and all species need in order to function and to continue. As humans it is essential to understand that we have limits… Omniscience and omnipotence does not lie in our hands but are powers entrusted to the Gods as ethereal physical/ celestial forces and Mother Nature herself! These constraints exist and are necessary.

We must remember scarcity and avoid hubris. It is dangerous for any singular organism or species that emerges among so many to arrogantly override the planet herself with her aeons of experience. This means to tamper and delve into affairs they do not fully understand. Hubris engenders some of the least redeeming of all characteristics; features and personality traits e.g. arrogance, contempt, hubris, callous indifference, narcissism, apathy; lethargic complacency, speciesism, invalid boasting, and blinkered thinking. It incorporates the fatal implications of ignoring the truth and consequences of one’s actions; recklessness; short-sightedness etc. It is essential to know what we have and to 102

work to keep it with sufficient reserves for the future, for any resource. We need to show that we value what we do have… Therefore; it is blindingly obvious; that we ought to take better care of our planet and its finite resources. After all, it is the only one we have ever known, able to make life functional and the only one we have. If we screw up totally, at the way we are progressing we will fail… And then those forces will have to try again once more with another species more capable. If most life including the dinosaurs can disappear, so can we. For all our supposed vaunted powers, we are hapless, helpless… defenceless and extremely vulnerable. We remain dependent upon a functioning ecology on this one planet. Beyond the miraculous planet itself; the realm of fable and enchanted phantasmagoria, all of our efforts pale into deserved obscurity and those humble enough to accept this as part of the Way of Gaia will live at peace with themselves

“The historical system of mutual pillage and extortion stops here on Arrakis. You cannot go on forever stealing what you need without regard to those that come after. The physical qualities of a planet are written in front of its economic and political records. We have these records in front of us and the course is obvious.”

We cannot sustain ourselves indefinitely as bloodsucking parasites, leaching off the gossamer firmament of the physical substance which nourishes us. There is only a finite capacity after all. Human beings cannot retain this process of attrition for all eternity. Eventually; there will be nothing. No natural resource on this planet is infinite –if never given the chance for replenishment. Any of us with any semblance of empathy; compassion and concern with our planet; ought to be reviled and horrified at our cauterising of our environment, in practically every way possible. We would show this if we condemned human relations as nothing more than extortion; extraction and rape –without free will and consent –or replenishment. We appear to be the only species that takes and contributes nothing to the rest of the biological interface and symbiosis; connecting each organism, with every other organism. And what has it given us that is worth the price and opportunity cost? We will be revived after purifying ourselves in the ritual of cleansing our planet, by setting out to achieve the solutions we need to efface a reversal not only of our suicide as a race and the perilous woes brought on by those that would dismantle religion and individuality. This includes prosecuting most rigorously of the unpardonable and unquestionably horrendous crime and sin of engaging in terrestrial genocide. The most unforgiveable of crimes is to sterilise a planet! The next –is to do it in part. The third; is the deliberate and avoidable contaminating of the ecosystem followed by the extermination or instigating the near extinction/ endemic status of a species...

“Humans and their works have been a disease on the surface of this planet before now. Nature teaches “Dune is not a dead planet after all; but full of hidden and marvellous life. Humans however, can change that in short order,” –Dr Bryce Haynes.

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And yet; why does our species have such an aversion to regeneration, for paying our debts? Why is so much spread in public awareness while even greater media coverage not progressing forward. How is our planet, any different? Never forget as the heirs of the ancients, and custodians of the marvellous Gaia; we have a sacred obligation to our fellow species of flora, fauna and fungi. After all, they too, have souls. They too will be subject to the same forms of immortality that humans themselves have. Their very presence humbly reminds us that each part of nature has its purpose and that each living creature has a destiny –even if short. Each being is capable of dreams; imaginations, fear ideas, reassurance… by work at it. We have to remember that humanity soberingly from the rest of the ecosystem no purpose other than custodianship. There is nothing to separate us from other creatures biologically, mentally and ethically and they are entitled to the same fundamental rights as we humans. Gaia has performed a marvellous and miraculous epicentre of terraforming. The Gods’ mastery over the elements and natural forces have assimilated each to their purpose, far better than humanity, which has only presided over an unmitigated and unprecedented cycle of spiralling disasters. Failing that, we are rendered superfluous and obsolescent. Perhaps, for the sake of every other species, it is a good thing too... Enough focus on the negative but fail to see the environmental blessings that exist elsewhere, that still abound despite the reluctance of states to invest in the planet as a step forward…

“Dirt is something solid that you hold in your hand. Using our science and our passion, we can mould it, shape it and bring forth life. Could there be a better task for any human?”

Does our arrogant proclamation of “evolution” arrogantly presume that we are better than the dirt from which we come from and to which, our mortal cadavers will eventually return? And yet; we begot attrition from many conflicts; dirt at least has the potential to bring forth life... Without dirt nutrients themselves would be bleached and those that depend upon the soil including us would falter and be doomed. So; even soil testing and aversion of erosion could have a significant effort… It is not just dirt. Nothing about the natural world can be taken for granted that it will be there tomorrow… even in an hour’s time or a moment. The pace of change appears to accelerate instantaneously… We cannot be sure that something will forever be here –unless we conscientiously make it so… Even those conservation efforts that the human race can justly be demonstratively be proud of… are increasingly under threat. One example is such the singe handed effort of South Africa, who virtually alone made it possible for the rhino to consider existing today, which poaching is significantly threatening to reverse…. In essence each part, species –every organism is significant. As humans we need to play our part in ensuring the ultimate survival of all these species…

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“No land –or sea –or planet –or species is forever. Wherever we stand, we are only stewards.” –Mother Superior Darwi Odrade.

As stewards; we need to conserve our ecological heritage. It would help if we appreciated the bounty of the Gods and of Mother Nature; rather than exterminating as many species as possible and rather than viewing our world; simply as a commodity to be exchanged and exploited. Too many organisms have perished from the mammoth to the auroch, the Mauritius dodo to the South African quagga –and myriad more... It is time we prioritised conservation; pledging to do whatever environmental steps were necessary, -in order to avoid the extinction of more species... After all; one thing that these prophets of globalisation and modernisation; who believe in technology; is that no human has ever brought back an extinct species successfully. We have never achieved this without nature. And even; our world has been unable or unwilling to do so... The burden of changing our tenure into being curators of our planet is that we can reduce the quantity of pollutants emitted –Our planet cannot at least alone! The human impact has become far too much. Something needs to be done from the source of the problem from humans themselves… We favour action. This Dune Approach recognises that humanity needs a blueprint to resolve succinctly and detail every step that each affected person; organisation; community; corporation and government can personally undertake to prevent the seemingly inevitable… We have waited aeons for humans to face the responsibilities of their actions –in formulating answers and ways to persuade people to implement these… But of the billions out there; very few seem to be gifted enough with the willingness and the capacity to actually do something. This treatise contests what so many deny, that all problems (especially the ecological), exist as challenges that can be faced and addressed. Where others marginalise; trivialise or ignore this issue; we will not…

“The increasing variety and abundance of life itself vastly multiplies the number of niches available for life. The resulting system is a web of makers and users, eaters and eaten, collaborators and competitors.”

“Our timetable will achieve the stature of a natural phenomenon. A plant’s life is a vast, tightly interwoven fabric. Vegetation and animal change will be determined first by the raw physical forces we manipulate. As they establish themselves though, our charges will become controlling influences in their own right –and we will have to deal with them too. Keep in mind though, that we need only control three percent –only three percent of the energy’s surface –to tip the entire structure over into our self-sustaining ecosystem.”

In considering a blueprint; if people are serious in their passion to save the world and progress forward to a new Ecological Age; they have to review every existing edifice; project; product and achievement to assess its potential influence on the physical terrain and world around them Ideas need to lower the externalities of the web that preserves us from obliteration. This aims to improve efficiency and to make it sustainable wherever 105

possible. For example this means lowering the marginal abatement cost and pollutants; synonymous with our technological capabilities, feasibility and reality. Why do people automatically assume new projects such as dams are always necessary for economic development? Chapters on ecotourism and in conversion to a “Green” economy; technology, products, lifestyle, agriculture and society among so many other previous monographs deny this. Before extending or constructing a new project –consuming even more environmental resources –such as land –whether for dams/ houses etc; does it not make sense pragmatically to improve the efficiency of the existing one? Why deny this? Before undertaking any new development; the effect on the environment should be noted. A real environmental impact assessment independently using environmental experts/ economists should be necessary during preparation stage and up to 1 year after the project’s completion with-continued inspections to ensure compliance.

“Humans and their works have been a disease on the surface of this planet before now. Nature teaches us –to compensate for that disease, to remove or encapsulate them into the system in her own way.”

Gaia dictates the conditions of the environments and humanity, the characteristics from the upbringing; for the raising of its own species. While the gods tend to the spiritual, mental and emotional traits, Gaia concerns herself with nurturing the survival capacities of the natural habitat of all her beings. Or, she has hitherto done so, without our destructive involvement. Catastrophes are perfectly natural forms of divine retribution brought on by excessive hubris, of which an excess ought to lead to shame and decency. Our fatal discourtesy in hardening our characters to the plight of Gaia and failure to devote ourselves in the service of our deities that provided so much, inevitably has foreboding repercussions. It makes it that much harder to actually prompt people to do anything at all to improve their circumstances instead of blithely getting on with their lives. It overwhelms just watching the world crumble around them, seeking to blot it out; waiting for others to intervene on their behalf. Or else they are just not fazed/concerned… Did anyone seriously and foolishly delude themselves into thinking that after centuries of callous neglect and profligate abuse that the planet and the Immortals would not retaliate? After all; we have provoked them with our ingratitude in abundance without apparent remorse or restraint? All those summits; conventions; pledges and promises are nothing but a farce – a publicity stunt. Who can possibly fool themselves into thinking we are striding forward when every indicator shows these problems are multiplying? This is the dogma that is currently fuelled by the media; by education; leadership and Hollywood This moves to those who discourage people in any capacity, even to switch off non-essential appliances (it all adds up). But the Dune Approach and Way of Gaia; seeks humans to find a way out of the morass and quagmire. It does take greater effort and courage to do something to try to do something. One becomes an infinitely better person for it –than those that fail to do anything at all…106

“Life improves the capacity of the environment to sustain life. Life makes much needed nutrients more readily available. It binds more energy into the system through the tremendous chemical interplay from organism to organism. We are generators and we are curators. You cannot draw neat lines around planet wide problems. Planetology is a cut and fit science.”

The blueprint does not have to be constrained to just one approach. It is not that presumptuous to assume that every aspect of the future can be solved without being able to assimilate and be flexible to perpetually altering circumstances or that humans alone can solve the crisis Why not aim for something different? Why not give Nature a chance? Why not strive for something truly revolutionary in our scope? Why not try to communicate with our fellow souls marooned on this planet with us. Perhaps they can offer lore and solutions that we can only dream of. Perhaps most monumentally of all, Gaia could solve all problems, if we stopped interfering in things we do not fully understand and work to alleviate the corrosive inheritance that taints the existence of our fickle species. Unlike those spurious animal rights activists, I acknowledge the irrefutable pre-eminence and supremacy of the divine deities. This is why we must leave the ecosystem working exquisitely in concord, without our tinkering, no matter how tempting we view it. This is until we can estimate a first order projection to establish to its destined place. Whoever and whatever have answers, it must be worth contemplating. The old ways have clearly failed. It is time for something different before we are all scrambled and doomed.

“Growth is limited by that necessity which is present in the least quality. And naturally, the least favourable condition controls the growth rate.”

Ecologist’s First Law of the Minimum.

There is only so much our planet can withstand and maintain of any living organism –especially when they have done everything to manipulate their environment –terraform; to dash about –higgledy piggledy; helter skelter blundering about. This is with no consideration for anything else, not the future nor others only the immediate and those who directly benefit by mortgaging their future and world. We have long exceeded the optimal level that a planet ought to sustain at a level detailing a sufficient; universally acceptable status of development and quality of life with over 7 billion people. We need to concern ourselves with honouring the ecological laws and constraints imposed on our planet. This requires curbing this pressure. Otherwise our planet will no longer be able to help us and we fully deserve the dire repercussions that await us, affecting us all. If we expand –it will only be temporary. It will be at the expense of other species, biomes and habitats. Is this wise? Surely steps of precaution and population reduction are more prudent? Only by taking dramatic options to reduce the population, such as China’s One Child Policy to the Second and Third Worlds; do we stand a chance.

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“Water is the image of life. We came from water, adapted from its all-encompassing presence ... and we continue to adapt.”

With climate change resources will become scarcer. Those countries who have made the most effort to ensure their conservation of resources; with food security and concern for water purity/access/supply –will survive better. However, the first Tsunami of migrants threatens this, as will successive waves. Geopolitically and strategically, financially, ethically and environmentally, it makes perfect sense. Diplomatic, economic and political power will devolve to those who have conserved the most resources; and taken the eco initiative in converting their economies into products so desperately needed by other nations. It descends to those who have chosen to condition their citizenry; businesses and governments, to reform environmentally–to adapt and climateproofed against future disruption, so as to not be paralysed when the full impetus strikes. Even those states who have prepared themselves for the contingency of environmental sustainability, need to alter that for changing climatic projections. This is amid global warming and other results of humanity blithely terraforming and polluting their natural world…

They also need to consider the fate of governments; society; corporations; the economy; culture; technological achievements and other aspects that will topple and disintegrate when the masses create an uprising from the scarcity of resources. Fragile, illusive order and civilisation will crumble as they are no longer able to ignore the rising of oceans; the drowning of archipelagos; the desertification of forests, the Century of Storms and Disasters, the searing heatwaves, the plagues, famines; dearth of species and collapse of certainty that globalisation has hidden so many from for so long. As for those who haven’t taken precautions; who haven’t considered this worst, most depraved and poignant of contingency scenarios to plan for, they ought to consider these implications. For all these problems will happen with dire immediate not just intermediate and long-term consequences, unless they act…

“Beneath a world –in its rocks, its dirt and sedimentary overlays –there you find the planet’s memory, the complete analogue of its existence, its ecological memory.”

“The individual is the key, the final effective unit of all biological processes.”

“Without the individual, nothing would ever happen biologically”

“The individual is shocked by the overwhelming discovery of his own mortality. The species, however, is different. It need not die.”

“Even in the most barren wasteland, a flower always grows. Recognise this, and learn to adapt to your surroundings,”

Dr Bryce Haynes.

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Just how much work and toil; just how much morphing of the environment and sacrifices did current humanity have; to mould his and her terrain; into supporting an increasingly exponential and unnatural quantity of population? Is the effort worth it? No species needs such abundance in order to ensure their survival and reach their potential. And if they did, –why torment and agonise our planet and other species so, when there are a billion other worlds out there in the Universe for us to follow? Why as humans; do we never learn from other species to live with our environment, not against it? The same applies to those who do retain some natural affinity. But we seldom learn from them even as we observe, study and comment upon their ways. Consider the San of the Kalahari for instance; they have a nutritious and adequate diet and work far less to get it. More importantly; they have learnt to deal with the constraints of the desert, instead of usurping it. They prove it is possible to coexist with as little human impact as possible on their Namibian desert terrain. While that level may be considered impractical and we cannot sustain our world on subsistence agriculture –we could at least follow their example. This Way of Gaia invokes as little impact as possible; respecting planetary limits and choosing organic agriculture whenever is possible. At least that would prove that we are not so selfish as a parasitic species, capable of considering others….

Thinking of the solution and not the problem. So many things need to change. Publicity has helped. But there has to be a way to prompt people to change of their own free will –as well as by compulsion. One way to do this; is to use the Dune Approach and Planetology so that we can participate in a championed programme spanning the aeons of the present and future to prevent Earth from suffering the same fate as the desert planet Dune or even Mars. Planetology matters far more than many suspect. For while we understand humanity and our technology has advanced; our knowledge and understanding of other species and biotechnology has fallen far behind what we need. We need ecological literacy in this to persuade people that sustainability matters and that the environment is worth saving. The planet too needs help –primarily in constraining the discharged torrent of pollutants humanity alone has secreted. Can we imagine the state of the world if other species were even a fraction as responsible for tainting their world as humanity had been? What would our survival be like if we multiplied even a proportion of humanity’s polluting output and extended it across other species? We need to reuse, recycle, renew!

What steps need to be undertaken to ensure an ecological future?

Why not start with afforestation? Let us guarantee that the air will be breathable once more. The way to do this is to distribute as many seeds as possible cheap; fast growing and inexpensive. It means declaring a prohibition on the felling of rare/ endangered species and that includes age. In the end we all benefit from this. We also need to convince people –especially in rural areas/the poor not to take

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wood without replenishing it. This includes only to harvest fallen timber, never to take the entire tree down. The trees can be fast growing. But for any timber taken, ten must be planted. For any tree that falls from humans, a minimum of twenty at least must be replanted. The only limit to this is our impatience. Hence the need for fast growing substitutes to preserve the fate of more venerable examples of trees. But this is also for any threatened species; who through their longevity and other factors such as their contribution to other species/the fluid functioning of the ecosystem (unlike many humans in all fairness); have earned their right to a natural not human determined existence. Many remain no threat to any human.

We need to preserve threshold and the most eco-sensitive, core species.

Publicly enforced smoking bans enforced by non-smoking university proctors; police and members of the community. For those addicted to the vice; will pay for contaminating Zeus’s aether. Unlike other vices which have some benefits –there are no real advantages to smoking whatsoever. It is the one vice that all would be better off for curbing, especially our planet and fellow non-smoking sufferers… (It doesn’t even reduce stress, it only delays it, issues of addiction and loss of control). Nothing can beat and nothing can possibly compare to the radiance, vitality, energy, purity and wholesomeness of untainted elements and scenery. The elementals’ gifts –the soil, vegetation and fauna, aether and space, the oceans and waterways, all the geographical features and the very stars and planets themselves… must be as pure as possible as they intended… Why is it necessary to taint them with pollutants, especially whenever alternatives exist? This is along with vices which aren’t god for us personally and collectively as a society let alone for the planet? How else are we to show the very basis of respect, dignity, gratitude; appreciation, devotion, piety, loyalty and other such principles that our planet deserves from all who live upon it? They have to be non-smoking because one thing that I discovered from experience at the UK university I attended and settlements I visited, was the lack of enforceability of these bans. The very enforcers themselves were hypnotised and mesmerised by this narcotic toxin.

We could start introducing a bounty –to plant more trees and vegetation (Like Peisistratus did with olives).There is always some species that can grow on denuded land , alien or domestic with the aim of ecological rehabilitation that is indigenous and compatible to the environment it is in. This is with the exception of extending and replanting those felled by xenophobia, speciesism or otherwise; which can also be added. At the very least; if a species is not interfering with the ecosystem it should be left alone and even encouraged. This is like trout introduced into the Natal Midlands –or many rare and exotic yet leafy arbours including

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jacarandas; oaks; ashes; willows and cedars under threat in South Africa and other countries –as being “alien’ –and hence butchered. These would replace the ones displaced by plant xenophobia.

Tree felling would be banned unless threatening property or the life of another/ (except for commercial purposes –which must be replanted tenfold). Businesses would be persuaded to plant trees/introduce inside gardens and roof gardens/ terrariums. It does not take a genius to mention this. Given the time and replacement cost it takes to replace anything and restore that which is lost –any habitat, species or natural area threatened. As humans we need to consider the implications for each.

The coral reefs of the world could be all protected. They should be allowed to rehabilitate. We should be wary of damaging fragile coral polyps, even in the name of scuba diving, ecotourism and other aspects –especially as habitats for other species, for we need to consider their welfare not just our own.

Governments could create the first steps; to make urban settlements less hostile to the environment; sensitive in its architecture; engineering and design to consider incorporating environmental principles and conservation. These could be mandatory for all new edifices and projects –public or private.

Great underwater botanical gardens and nature preserves–with submerged walkways, concentrating on aquatic research could be formed including underwater experimental research facilities devoted to conserving, evaluating and researching the species of the ocean. We would extend this to caves and geological formations –especially into the surface of the Earth for their environmental aspect as most countries, organisations and published works seek to ignore.

Zoological and botanical gardens could focus more on breeding those species that are potentially threatened with extinction. These would concentrate on research and public education to familiarise the masses with ecological literacy; sensitivity and value of natural beauty and appreciation of other species. On this; we would use these to ensure the preservation of every species threatened with extinction –to categorise and classify every organic organism on the basis of its scarcity and ecological value. This is so that we can protect those organisms with selective breeding to ensure that never again in the environmental future of the world; is a species possibly threatened with the approach of imminent extinction from humanity. Where parks, wildernesses; sanctuaries and marine/other reserves cannot be extended further as the first priority to ensure their survival/ research their use/ necessity/communication and value to the biosphere, life and then to

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ourselves as well in natural environs and circumstances. Let their health/ welfare and prosperity in targeted breeding be prioritised as botanical and zoological gardens extend their programmes to every country, settlement and province of the world Stakeholders can share information, research and the exchange of seeds, also seeking to be as commercially and ecologically self-sustainable as possible.

As the human species; we need to take ecological responsibility to ensure natural survival and propagation. This is to ensure the mechanisms of the biosphere artifice we inhabit; is not desiccated and destroyed by our efforts –taking legal responsibility for our environmental actions. One way to do so; is to ensure the conservation of further species –who in turn may yield properties that could resolve many of our medicinal/diet/other pressing problems. Indeed; these parks, reserves and zoological/botanical gardens could focus on research that is natural not artificial circumstances to correct perverted science into focusing on reflected reality. Each could publish a journal of results. Targeting communication with species might resolve all manner of problems including speciesism –This is the last major discrimination that we have failed to overcome concerning our hostility to environmental conservation. After all they have learnt to live with the natural world and other species each other in symbiosis and synergy. Why can we not manage the same? They might also be able to resolve any number of problems even psychological/ intellectual ones? In the absence of evidence to the contrary; camels might be great astronomers and; bees and ants as great architects; dolphins and whales as great composers and cats/dogs as great psychologists –as pets observing the human condition and behaviour for millennia.

Promoting the extension of these sanctuaries with adequate resources; a library; herbarium; seed exchange etc. also helps to advocate the spread of environmental education; respect; awareness and literacy in identifying species and their properties/ purposes values since school level. As human beings we are more likely to respect them. In addition; they can facilitate species for research and commercial purposes for financial purposes; publishing catalogues and a Botanical/ Zoological Journal/promote lecturers and visitors. They also have a role to defend benign or harmless flora fauna –i.e. invertebrates from speciesism or so called “alien” plants also benevolent or harmless incurring xenophobia. For example this manifests in South Africa by removing jacarandas and other shaded trees from avenues (maniacal tree felling –extermination campaign) by correcting erroneous popularist assumptions/hysteria. Exchange programs and scheduled visits, especially from universities; high and primary schools as well as from the poor/rural areas to demonstrate the value of conservation/plants. These provide seeds to plant and demonstrate the commercial/ other usage of plants/ benefits of botany/ zoology as practical steps to implement interest in the world. They even show how weeds and tree 112

planting can play a role). It is paramount for the youth; students; the poor –even pensioners/ politicians etc… Utilise media links to report on discoveries/news/fund raising etc- mobilise popular community support as a park for recreation/ leisure/conservation and research/ information. The only way to make people realise the value of something –is to provide it. It means continuously publicising its benefits so that it receives their endorsement/ support –prompting them to do their part. There could be more seminars; debates; competitions; prizes and other incentives/ means of raising awareness and support. The poor could receive training as guides or be employed in conservation in a far more interactive approach.

We could even ask them for their feedback and involvement. The surest way to win support is to listen to people and make sure they have a chance to be heard; to participate and contribute. We can ensure people are forged as ecological niches with the greatest and noblest of causes. This is to fight back and defend on behalf of an anthromorphism whom above all other life forms has given all of us and every species; collectively and individually more than all the others, such is irrefutable! We could enquire where corporations do not? What is it that you desire in a park; botanical/zoological garden etc? What would you be willing to do to help support conservation/to be involved? The Dune Approach and the Gaia Dialogues initiative aims to do whatever it takes to alert people to the value need of the natural world –to support and aid its conservation. It exists to allow their concerns to be heard. It would enable them to provide initiatives/become involved. It seeks to illuminate the purpose of conservation and protecting the rights of other species –and how in research/ conserving; they too can benefit in health, research, medically, commercially etc… We also want to evaluate those who do desecrate the natural world; asking: What is it about the natural world that causes you to behave so? To litter/ desecrate, poach, pollute or torment other species. Is it from fear; profit; contempt; ignorance to use/value; convenience etc? Would you like use to treat you the same, fill up your home of trash/maim you etc?

The oceans and every major waterway deserve the same protection as stated for marine conservation and research on the basis of the role ascribed for parks/ botanical and zoological gardens for every existent flora/ remaining. This must occur in time to avert extinction; discover benefits and restore a greater ecological equilibrium in the Dune Approach compatible with Gaia. This is even if it necessitates reducing the surfeit of humans through birth control/education/space exploration etc. In time as we extend the Astronautical Odyssey so that we venture merely beyond the confines of this planet; we could target the establishment of planetary ecologists and monitoring stations in every extra-terrestrial entity containing traces of organic/other life forms. They could be catalogued; researched and guarded. We should establish preserves and gene banks, so that no matter how rare we can ensure that we do not repeat the same mistakes as 113

before. For now is our chance to correct the past in a new Ecological Conservation Age! Any new planet could follow the spirit of Antarctica to heed research as foremost. This could be ratified by all nations with current and future space penetration and exploration potential. Even if we have not reached this potential yet, to be forewarned is to be forearmed!

Solon banned cultivation of agriculture on steep slopes. To prevent heavy erosion, we could copy that. There are ways of maximising yields without creating erosion. This planet could feed all species, provided that the basic lessons of restraint are practised

Be wary of dam construction and the effects on the ecosystem. Many dams are geologically vulnerable including the Colorado and 3 Gorges Dam on the Yangtze. The effects of others such as the Aswan High Dam/Nasser Dam and Nkrumah Dam have scarcely been beneficial to their environment. We need to reinforce dams to avert further contamination and destruction. The problems of canals and artificially interfering with waterways; increases potential risks of flooding amid other such disasters.

In 2018 Cape Town became the first major global city to run out of water. Guard water sources to ensure purity and prohibit indiscriminate discharging of waste into freshwater resources, given only a mere one percent of the world’s total water supply is fresh and consumable. At the moment; it is depleting, second by second on many frivolous materialist things in the developed world including washing cars and irrigating lawns and golf courses too often. This is even during droughts and climatically inappropriate man-made environments. In addition, those who would pollute any freshwater source. We should remember that all the profits from industry/commerce and personal dumping on this planet –let alone from them; will not suffice to buy them from the nearest pure water source off this planet. Perhaps this is one of the moons of Jupiter. On that we would ban industrial dumping into any water source and provide an incentive scheme to reward those who exploit this tragedy of the commons.

We could rescue the Baltic and the Black Seas as two of the seas affected by eutrophication; clear derelict wrecks not being used by wildlife. We can ensure that discharge and effluent is filtered/ recycled/ reused wherever possible.

Future water shortages could be addressed, if so much wasn’t wasted of the seven percent of the precipitation cycle that does make it to our planet as groundcover and retainable sources. We could make efforts to distil and conserve this water that reaches us. This extends to storing it where necessary using open water tanks, especially in urban areas where so much of it goes to waste and isn’t utilised by any species or Gaia herself, percolating into the soil, vegetation; water table and ground cover.

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As alluded to elsewhere, we could introduce research for every species in an attempt to include, protect and communicate with them. At the moment; it is incredible how little attention has actually been devoted to communicating; understanding and interfacing with other species.

One approach is to create as many opportunities as possible for other species to prosper; endure and survive as they were meant to do without human intervention and contact. These reforms represent only a partial step however. A fundamental flaw in the modern human species is their lack of ecological literacy. Ecological literacy or ecological output that we have personally contributed quantitatively or qualitatively, can be our only real measure of humanity’s contributions to resolving the messes it has perpetrated. Factors such as a lack of responsibility, sensitivity, appreciation, veneration, foresight into consequences of one’s actions; gratitude; consciousness; a conscience and enthusiasm; as well as observation, peace, curiosity, perception and the faculty of wonder, are all essential components of this. It matters far more than mere formal scientific training, as skills to master. Those who lack this care nothing for the planet. They lack understanding of its most fundamental and simple concepts in ecology; ethics and philosophy. If it were to become an integral part of the curriculum; we might actually all begin to understand the basic dynamics of our planet. We might grasp what humans are actually doing to this planet, the repercussions upon the natural ecosystem and the reprisals sent by Gaia. Who knows? Perhaps some of us might even begin to care. At the moment too much priority is devoted to many areas of knowledge that let’s face it; will not prepare term for work or the realities of life. As for the equivalent of life orientation or general studies; the environment is far more as important, especially for our ultimate survival.

Another policy of our ecological relationship is the condescension or patronising attitude that we are somehow superior to other species. However; this is based on flawed knowledge and ignorance, especially resonating from a lack of contact with other species. We can thank several thousand years of human arrogance and hubris fostered by the dogmatic religions of militant monotheism and more recent Darwinian evolution. How do we know? How can we possibly know; that they are not our equals intellectually/morally/ ethically/physically/emotionally/spiritually... until we can communicate? How can we understand each organism of every species? That way; we can also benefit from them; and they; from us. Historically our relationship has been skewered and biased on our favour –in exploiting other species to satiate every appetite or whim; without considering the implications on them

The Dune Approach under Frank Herbert and the Imperial Planetologists Pardot and Liet Kynes does not aim to terraform the planet. It envisions establishing an ecological equilibrium; a synthesis between our planet and us as curators of our natural heritage. It

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encompasses every organism of every species and every part of the natural world. It recognises peace and harmony, recycling and sustainability can be attained, if we valiantly fight for them. It considers the cooperative principle of synergy with ecological literacy as something to be encouraged among the members of all species. But evidentially it prioritises the one species that too often fails to comprehend the necessity for it. But if we do not, then the Dune Approach will never pass. Our environment will collapse, the way it is presently scheduled to do so within our immediate lifetimes… If any future generations survive, they will curse us for creating a desolation out of Paradise for having the potential to avert it but to do nothing. We will be remembered by these floundering embittered survivors of all species, as the generations: who betrayed Gaia in the Age of Planetary and Ecological Destruction. These are more likely to be cockroaches than humans as well but there may be a few). More likely; another species from the farthest reaches of the Spiral Arm will stumble upon the charred ashes of a nuclearized Earth, sterilised of life. Our remnants will be discovered. We will forever be known as the species who so brazenly sought to exploit our planet as ignorant, avaricious masters but so callously let our planet die… The ultimate inexcusable occurrence!

Are we gamblers? Why gamble with no game or recourse in mind; marooned and adrift to no purpose, as so many ecological organisations and people are doing? Why gamble with such pointless odds; such cosmetic pinprick notions of reform? A real Ecological Revolution and new Age is necessary to achieve long term sustainability of humanity’s impact upon this beleagued orbiting domain we should be proud to call our home. Most environmental movements lack vision... purpose... unity. Most have a short-term attention span. To save the planet will necessitate the first pan-generational project conceived in the history of human civilisation. This assumes the planet can survive us that long, (given no other species has existed so ungratefully). We must avoid the failures of other movements –especially those that falter from indecision; compromises; a lack of evident support; splintering or external division. We cannot afford to make mistakes concerning the future of our planet. Pinprick, cosmetic changes will fail instead of a radical Gaia Recovery blueprint as envisioned in these pages; in Dune and in others. These are preferable rather than the evident failings of the Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement and COP 17 in Durban South Africa in 2013 CE/ 2766 AUC, as human failures. (If anything, the latter with its lack of commitment to climatic change and mandate to endorse fossil fuels is a disgraceful betrayal.) We need these decisive steps to work upon those of the past; present and future –who envisioned change. We must propel those who saw a way to make it come to pass –our planet’s Renaissance, the Apotheosis and Dawning of an Ecological Age, where we all work, not in dissonance but in concord.

Technomancy in the vocal enhancement syndrome is anathema to igniting Protogenesis and the Way of Gaia. At the moment; the blessed peace of the natural world is drowned 116

out by modernity. Part of the Dune Approach will be to minimise human intrusion upon other species, especially in sound. Nature provides solace in peace; that the noise of the modern world drowns out rigorously. Unfortunately; there exists no legislation to protect us against noise pollution so far. Or light pollution for that matter. Of the many recognisable environmental problems out there, only a few receive attention, let alone priority. Aside from the unnatural intrusion and disturbance it causes to other species; both are scarcely as benign for our rest, relaxation, health and welfare. Only through the pursuance of the merits enshrined in peace and harmony; in the value of beauty/ a wilderness, can our turbulent species and era, ever be at peace and one with itself.

However; perhaps that is part of the problem that the Dune Saga Approach to resurrect our planet has to contend with to be a fit place for the optimum quantity of all species. How many of us can imagine our environments purified, so that the ecologically sustainable critical limits of humans; can in symbiosis and synergy, coexist peacefully with each other and the rest of their ecosystem? How many can dream of this world as a Paradise? How many yearn to be without the stigmas that we have imposed, where we do not have to worry about deforestation; species extinction, contamination of water sources; food security, climate change and so many other problems currently facing us. If people never dare to dream, then they have no purpose to their existence. By extension in not having a purpose; how can one validate being alive; through abusing and neglecting one’s Matriarch? But those who dare to dream something encompass a reality, which they alone can behold and inaugurate, without guidance as their own navigators.

If this policy is to be an effective, capable one, there is so much that remains to be done. There is so much for us to discover. How little we know! Sobering to admit. But we need research in every spectrum. We do not know what will happen. This Age will be known as being one of Uncertainty in every possible sphere of our being. Case studies in afforestation; soil conservation; preservation of coral reefs and mangrove swamps, water purification, averting eutrophication, recycling –especially e-waste (from technology) and renewable energy. The Dune Approach presents us with a way to channel that focus and energy into the most necessary environmental; economic and social problems... Ultimately; our problems are environmentally linked as well as the human crisis from a loss of faith/growth in materialism. They come from an inability to focus, to be decisive, to favour action; to accept responsibilities; to learn from history. This includes to consider the future as well as the present and to understand that actions have consequences.

The Dune Approach symbolises a long-term vision for the survival of our species on this planet and others. It is a way to restore Gaia; averting centuries or millennia of neglect and abrasion, before it is too late. Why gamble away the future for such pointless stakes? In the end; is it really worth it? Once gone; can we recover what is lost? Can we bring back

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extinct species; can we re–establish the permafrost and icebergs that have melted; as the planet gets warmer. Permafrost prevented the spumes of methane from simmering East Siberia; the Arctic and Antarctic polar ice shelf and others. The Gaia Approach would investigate these and more. It is based on realistic means devised by actual beings with ideas- that if adopted, could save every part of this planet and its species and allow us to continue.

Incidentally; this approach doesn’t have to be boring or inconsequential. To sketch the blueprints and means of environmental salvation as our new guiding creed how could that be possibly be construed as boring? This could be a faith that could resonate with us all, those worthy enough to call themselves sentient; conscious entities of any race grateful to any measure for being alive at any point in their existence. As the problems exist; how could it be considered a waste of time; money; resources; energy and priority to ensure that the environment is restored and human impact is curbed sufficiently to benefit all? To etch out the schematics of a new Ecological Age –a fresh start –and a new, more natural world focused; balanced and sustainable; holistic yet dynamic and synergistic way for all species; will be a challenge. But it will be a challenge of a welcome sort! It can serve to give our species purpose and a meaningful destiny in which we can all contribute to save our lives over the next centuries and millennia. For that is how long it could take us to resolve aeons of accumulated human mistakes spurred on by ignorance, hubris and folly.

It can also be made relevant to our daily lives. This is unlike global culture and monotheism which seeks to insulate us from the “Unspeakable” realities of the world we are in. It is curious to be living in an Age which seeks to distance itself from reality to quite the extent that technology seeks to. So many facets of modern life from transport to shopping malls to gymnasiums to skyscrapers, to concrete ways seek to cut us off from our planet. Perhaps they are trying to escape the horrors that the human race has superimposed on this era. But it cannot be escaped for ever. Besides; either implicitly or explicitly so many were responsible. They could at least have the nerve and decency to face it and confront their self-induced fears. One of the main aspects of this initiative is to accept that we have a responsibility, each and every one of us. Having accepted that task, it is up to us to do something monumental about it. Surely we have ideas as human beings; on behalf of our planet; communities; intelligentsia including students; individuals and governments/NGO’s/those in commerce, about what needs to be done? The Dune Approach will include a holistic approach. This will be capable of incorporating all worthy/viable/pragmatic propositions that every stakeholder in this planet’s fate, wishes to implement. If we do not, we could support the worthy proposals of those who do.

The envisioned approach that could save our planet and make it a fit place not just for humans, but for all species; is known as Dune –being based on the quintessential saga. It

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occurs by restoring Gaia/stabilising the human population back down to the optimum ecological balance/finite carrying capacity; It is one of the few to treat ecology seriously and realise; that the process of life itself matters, sublimating politics; religion; commerce and society to the planet. If there is one thing that fantasy and science fiction can show us, is that anything can be imagined. Where contemporary science and the mediocre leadership of the world had lacked practical solution; books such as these and individuals are capable of expressing the answers to our environmental problems. So, can we find answers? Can we solve this? This treatise seeks holistically to rejoin: Yes, we can solve this – provided we are willing to undertake dramatic solutions. Anything is possible, especially if we believe in it.

The mistake the environmentalists make; is not to make the environmental cause alluring enough to galvanise the population of Earth into acting. Environmentalism can be combined with popularist science. It can engage the global psyche; as the next popular and charismatic thing. Finally, its the ultimate answer to the ennui; the strife; the ignorance; dissatisfaction; apathy and voids left by globalisation. It needn’t be fusty or boring and it can make a difference. Nor need it cost us everything worthy that we have ultimately achieved. We do not need to regress. Simply renounce everything that corrodes our planet and channel it into something that ultimately will extend the longevity of all. Can there be a worthier point to our existence and a worthier direction to take? If we start with pilot projects perhaps that tackle the most imperative environmental challenges and the establishment of ecological testing stations throughout all nations; climates and environment. Perhaps we will be able to use that; to prompt people into doing more. We need continuous interaction to stimulate and motivate them into embracing the environment, perhaps into finally taking an interest in their planet and its future. After all; it’s still not too late...

Meteorologists should be elevated to give regular climatic updates through the electronic/ virtual mediums of communication of this century. Climatic consequences are so fundamental and imperative, we cannot afford to ignore then. We must give them the priority they deserve. The same with all issues concerning environmental and climate change affairs. Compared to that; what else matters and has such a connection or influence upon our daily personal lives, health and welfare? It is the same with discoveries and environmental reforms news etc. Certainly for political events, celebrities and global culture, some economic shock or incident in some other country, many aren’t that interested in current affairs such as these because they see no connection. Very often the impact is minor, if existent at all. The only way to take the problem seriously and to continue to do it, is to constantly see it reinforced both theoretically and practically. That includes heightened awareness and exposure to the sense it is ingrained, not to let the human race voluntarily choose lethargy, apathy and inertia over the necessary catharsis. 119

There are so many incremental variables in climatic projections and forecasting. If we choose to concentrate on greater research of planetariums; observatories and surveys, we increase the prospects. If we devote science and technology towards chartering; deciphering and exploring space, this may enhance the chance of not being pulverised by random space debris or celestial projectiles. This is far more useful than that objective of warfare! This is an age of ever-increasing specialisation. But it takes a generalist or an ecological visionary, Planetologist -or someone with any intuition or insight as basic ecological literacy–to visualize the integrated biosphere. This includes with all species, as an interconnecting system to operate and support life –all life. This includes the climate. Concentrating on merely one climatic aspect or the disturbance by the perishing of one species, blinds projections involving the amplified repercussions throughout all species. We cannot negotiate with Gaia, we can only seek to comprehend. We cannot dispute our failure as stewards and ecological curators. We cannot parley with our planet, especially as our species; with its philandering history clearly lacks gratitude... We have no one to blame but ourselves. It is no other species in terrestrial history that has wracked such cataclysmic disruptions. It is not any other organism of any other race but ours; that has been so responsible. Or should that be irresponsible? Whether we like it or not, no other species can clear up our embarrassing legacy bequeathed to our planet...

With all this; the Dune Approach focusses on a long-term Renaissance and recovery of the ecological cycle. Why else do we pursue this? Our dream is to make this planet a fit place –not just for human habitation but symbiosis with other species, and a fit place for their peaceful coexistence. Our dream is for this planet to sustain a critical human mass at a decent; ecologically sustainable optimum standard of living. It includes taking surfeit people and project them onwards. It dreams to be able to live on other planets not just in our galaxy but to the farthest swirling contours of the Macrocosmos. What could be so objectionable about this objective? What is there to contend with? We wonder why our opponents subscribe to such a nihilistic view towards the natural –the organic? Why so consumed with animosity that which encapsulates biodiversity, wonder, loyalty and appreciation to the forces which helped them to achieve anything, without which our race would have never achieved even a fraction of what it has, for better or for worse. And that above everything else; is why we must act! We must act to convert those who will willingly to subscribe to this approach. But for the sake of the long-term survival –not just of our species but of all, we must adopt this Approach even if it means sacrifices. This is even if we have to purge those who hate Gaia for it is no longer about just us alone…

First though; this planet must be reborn! The human race must resurrect itself; resuscitate its will, spirit; passion and energy! It must reincarnate itself physically, mentally and psychologically. Envision this planet as an ecological Paradise as it once was; when Gaia could focus on being benevolent; without human taint. Only then can it not only save its 120

own species but so many others as well. Only then; might we have the potential to move forward –not regress backward –in a vision that does not require sacrifice our planet for ultimately little or nothing in the long run. Some might argue that such a vision is incompatible with the pace of modern human civilisation in the Age of Globalisation. But it isn’t. Many of the visions have already ben etched in scholarship as well as in fiction… For example; we could consider undersea colonies, devolve most of our functions into subterranean… freeing up the pressure on the planet’s surface–from power generation to transport to commercial/ retail to industrial, -even residential. We could extend our efforts to curb the human population encouraging settlement of Mars; the Moon; Io; Calisto and Europa and further to other planets beyond our galaxy. All it would take is the energy; will and expenditure to achieve this Elysium. This would formulate an age where humans can exist with their planet in a way that does not compromise the efforts; zeal and achievements of either.

To do this; we realise that discovery can be the guide. We can identify core environmental apexes; more critical than others We can ensure they receive protection via international law and the remaining armed forces of the world. We can identify the species threatened with extinction. We can invoke sanctions, commercial, travel and diplomatic/aid relations with any country that opts for moral hazard and the free rider problem, due to asymmetrical information and uncertainty. If countries no longer wish to participate in an Ecological Epoch; A New Age of the Planet; a Fellowship of Gaia; an Order of Environmental Enlightenment, then we will deny them our support. For we will not allow them to gain at other’s expenses. We need to ask: Where do these eco-problems come from? Where does our discharged offal go? How can we resolve these and every single other issue? Do we really know why we need to resolve these? Do we know what we need to do?

This Dune Approach can include us all. We can all participate as Chosen Ones with a higher purpose. For there can be no loftier and more sacrosanct purpose; than following the will of Gaia and the Olympians such as Zeus; Hera and Athena. This is to favour enlightenment; choose a Pax Terra; conserve the planet; enlighten our species and charter the galaxies of the Universe. On this planet, we can follow the example of the Nature Conservancy set up in 1950 to purchase 117,000,000 acres of terrain; 5000 miles of waterways and 100 marine conservation projects preserved before extending it forward. Or we could follow that of Botswana; which enshrined 17% of its country in parks and another 20% in wilderness areas. We may not save every wilderness. But from the Amazon to the Congo; from Patagonia to the Sahara; from Lake Baikal; the North Sea and the Mediterranean to the Maldives; we can save as many as possible.

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The Dune Approach will unleash an ecological Parnassus on this planet. We believe in the scholarship of our planet and unleashing it to serve not just humans but our planet –in an ecological revolution, that is far more than mere worded platitudes. It is a vision that need not be confined to the intelligentsia of our planet; but one in which each one of us –as humans can participate and contribute. This is a project spanning both rich and poor; across the oceans and the aether; across power generation; great conservancies of biodiversity; across the rich and the poor. This must include the venerable of experience and the world’s youth, with the passion, energy and convictions; all can share in this project more than any of globalisation. All can share in this dream and vision. All can make a valuable contribution. All can express the will to sacrifice. This is so that life is and forever will remain possible. This is so that people do not have to forfeit their dreams of a better future. We do not wish to be replaced by a charred; ashen spheroid, where nothing but mites and cockroaches survive, where there is no human life to behold; or a fading drowning world of the mid-21st century. We seek not a future in which this world of ours; is nothing but a flickering memory, a Ghost of a Potential Paradise, a Chimera of Lost Dreams that were never reached....

Chapter 7: Africa:

No continent is identical to another. That much is obvious for resources. The same is equally true for its ecology; its history and philosophy of conservation, along with its way forward. Its examples of martyrs, its ecological solution and despite globalisation; the societal and individual attitudes to Gaia herself; to valuing the ecosystem and treatment of species/vegetation; differ far more than is commonly treated by most protagonists championing the environmental movement or their opponents. Each has much to teach

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the others. It is nothing no more or less than we shall need to provide the first global coordinated response and strategy that incorporates every part of the planet –every principality, every islet… None can be exempt –regardless of their regimes. For in this; we are all one, regardless of many other things that divide our species. The issue of the free rider problems and individual countries’ unwillingness to act means that we require all countries to follow. Or they face the censorship of a united world that puts the planet and humanity first. We can focus on petty human distractions, justified or otherwise later –once we charter new planets and discover a way out. To do so; we need to concentrate on the reforms, initiatives, heroes and ideas of not only our ecological history; present and future plus fiction too, not just of the but the Developing World…

Why should a chapter not be devoted to a continent? Each deserves an entire treatise. But this tome merely devotes a chapter to each in the constraints of space. It salutes and commends those who have not surrendered but elected to do something, no matter how small. However; attempts of one or several individuals; groups or countries should be adopted universally if they help to save the planet and our legacy. Then – and only then; will globalisation and modern technology be truly serving the world not just profit. The flaws of most books proposing ecological reforms is that they assume that what works for one; will work for all. They ignore ecological solutions that the Second and Third World could present to the world along with examples of individual initiatives. They fail to highlight the successes; failures and the objectives to target. These will all be resolved –even in part, just to recognise the fact that even those who are customarily dismissed as having nothing to contribute can at least aid in lessons and examples. These aid the planet, if nothing else…

The first thing to note about Africa is that the First World could learn about prioritising the planet from them. They could learn about responsibility, veneration, loyalty, adaptability, respect and humility. Or even being more mercenary, i.e. how to profit from conservation! Africa has realised potential gains from tourism and conservation can resolve poverty more effectively for a community far more effectively; as its own domestic initiative. Providing a partnership with natur eis more potent than any amount of development aid, (even the gargantuan and obscenely crippling levels granted to Julius Nyerere in Tanzania). As an African; one can witness the success of this pragmatic policy in averting the extinction of many species. Governments; communities and individuals realise that we have little to lose and everything to gain in helping these other species to survive. They require far less infrastructure and fixed capital costs in conserving wilderness; with just as decent and sustainable employment prospects if not more, than many so-called Western Hemisphere development aid initiatives. It provides scarce foreign exchange as people from abroad overwhelmingly prefer our wildlife to our manufactured products.

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Ecological solutions that Africa can present to the world include not being so willing to ignore the beauty around us. Many heed the inherent fragility of ecological wildernesses, amid the intrusions of our human race. This incorporates the disturbances of technology; civilisation; burgeoning, ecologically unfeasible surplus population and our incessant; never satiated; never quenched desire to engorge more and more resources. That is why; we as Africans learnt not to completely ignore the world around us. We value other species, many of our natural irreplaceable wonders and fellow natural fauna and fauna. We undertook to legally protect these areas on behalf not merely for tourists and not just for our own citizens (for we all have a right to do so). But we did so for the sake of the planet; realising that we would definitely be far worse off in their absence. The continent is full of examples to deploy…. Addo Park in South Africa was set up to protect the rare Cape elephants as early as 1937. Victoria Falls; the Cape of Good Hope Promontory; Chobe River; the Zambezi; Central Kalahari; Okavango; Murchison Falls, Lake Malawi and the Central Lakes/gorillas of Uganda; the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater; Jozi Forest in Zanzibar; the dunes of the Skeleton Coast and Mount Kenya are just a few exemplars of this. We saved the Big Five and whales from extinction.

This is what many urbanised globally lack; both the willingness and capacity/the determination and the vision to save their ecological assets, even those few that they do have. What have they got in remaining Europe or many of the urban environments –including the world’s slums to compare to the African continent? It is too spoilt and too many of Natures’ benefits have gone. It has been too tamed, too domesticated. Humans there have softened their environment. In themselves they become more weaker and degenerate. Alienated from their natural world (those remaining…) they do not gain the benefits from it, understand it, appreciate it. It sees the natural environment filtered through the prisms of the media; zoos; parks; tourism etc. It did not grow up with it as ingrained as we have. Although there are those in whom having not taken it for granted and lacking exposure, appreciate it more. This is one of the secrets behind tourism, even if it globally produces an unsustainable volume of greenhouse gas emissions.

The examples of African individual initiatives that could be harnessed in aid of the planet; so that we may properly fulfil our role as stewards and curators of our ecological heritage include. Earthlife Africa founded in my home provincial metropolis of Pietermaritzburg, ensures indictment and banning of the British Company Thor Chemicals (based around Cato Ridge –my family estate). It successfully won legally on 43 criminal charges from murder to environmental contamination from the dumping of mercury illegally from abroad into the Umgeni River under apartheid. The ANC in 1994 warned them illegal imports of toxic waste was indefensible and they had to desist. The European Union Parliament had to compel its members not to treat the African continent as its residue dumping ground. They had to reimport their toxic waste. These unique African examples 124

also include treating the poaching of rare species with the same severity as that of the murder of humans. Think about it logically. As humans, simple economics mandated by human greed dictates that the rarer something is, the more we covert it, the more we value it and the more we are prepared to value it. It is the same legally; where the severity of law increases proportionally or greater than proportionally with the value involved in the crime. That is why the murdering of humans receives harsher legal punishments than other crimes. Or why the greater the theft/embezzlement/fraud, the greater the consequences/restitution required… The question is this. Why is the scarcity of species not perceived of in the same manner?

This month; one takes greater pride in one’s African roots; when South Africa took a decisive legal step in opting to convict poachers of rhinos to 21 years in jail –equivalent to that of human murder. Many other countries even those of Western Europe (whose jurisprudence have had the chance to boycott or otherwise remain firm since the Athenians and the Romans. Consider Japanese slaughter of whales under the guise of “scientific research.” Consider Chinese and Vietnamese poaching of African elephants and rhinos. Compared to this; Asia and the USA are regressing. For all their economic power; they often serve to demonstrate their environmental contempt, whether by pillaging or poaching. Or they refuse to cooperate with the few pitiful attempts such as Kyoto and the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (worthless without the ratification of polluting US and China –even more so without a genuine successor). Certainly; what other countries would make the legal effort to prioritise the issue of poaching? South Africa even during the pre-1994 period; has devoted itself to prevention with specialised environmental species protection units, working with rangers and the SANDF. Although the efforts could be greater; extending this to public; NGO and privately endorsed awareness and information campaigns; the police and law enforcement.

At the moment; humanity alone is the one species that is out of synchrony with the rest of the terrestrial ecosystem. It consumes far more than she or he individually (it collectively as a species) produces. It is the only species not to serve any purpose to Nature. It is the only species that Nature could delete without deterrence to any other organism. We alone are disposable, without affecting the life expectancy/ welfare/ sustenance of any other animal or plant. In fact; our extinction; might actually be their ultimate salvation. It is this fact that we human need to remember. That is why we ought to employ these African and world initiatives; as well as that of others. This is in order to prove ourselves as being fit members of the intricate biomass that comprises life, in this most fragile and phenomenal of natural accomplishments, this most enchanting of spectacles in our galaxy. By adopting these and other reforms; we will signal what many Africans still retain; our symbolic 125

allegiance to our world. It is truly blessed and priceless, among all worlds. For we know of no others that even remotely compare to this. And yet; we want to work to erase this? For all that we have done. These will be completely meaningless, if we ignore the physical/ ecological constraints that made everything possible….

However; Africa has more poignant and tragic warnings to foreshadow. The example of rhino poaching… -which used to be one of our major conservation stories, shows how precarious even our triumphs are. It demonstrates how we cannot ever afford to be complacent about our victories and to take them for granted. The world should sanction Vietnam, who caused the extinction of their own rhinos and now aim to target the rest. This is extensively proven through investigations and books such as: Killing for Profit –Julian Rademeyer. Afforestation of the Sahara is imperative! Do people know what the effects of desertification are? Perhaps after they have experienced it; they might learn to appreciate it more. The same could be said of any major environmental tragedy or natural disaster. It costs little in physical resources just millions of seeds; efforts of grass and other ways as outlined in Pardot Kymes Dune Approach. In the days of the Romans, North Africa was so fertile it could sustain over 600 cities. How many could it retain now? We do not always advance with every stride. If we ignore our environment from Mexico to Cambodia, we will pay.

The Indian Ocean Zone of Peace is the African solution to the possibilities of a nuclear war, which needlessly would destroy us all. This Mozambique and Tanzanian initiative is committed to turning the Indian Ocean east coast and all African states surrounding territorial waters into a zone where nuclear weapons and nuclear testing is prohibited. This stands in contrast to the West; where nuclear powers hypocritically allow it for certain powers while allowing countries like Israel to have them without comment. Countries like Canada do not mind the ecological implications of France nuclear testing in the 1970’s South Pacific near Tahiti and Polynesia. They openly condemn it while secretly making profits from selling uranium reactors elsewhere. They let a citizen get beaten with his eye nearly gauged out by the French navy; his Greenpeace endorsed, Canadian yacht being rammed by a French minesweeper. This horrific example just goes to show governments will sanction any attack on their citizens when they seek to protect the environment –even from the ecological devastation of nuclear testing. These tests were completely superfluous –given that we know them. Nuclear warfare only ensures mutually assured destruction, especially of the innocent planet.

However; Africa honours its word –and remains devoted to avoiding nuclear confrontation. Its members have convincing credentials. South Africa remains unique in being the only nuclear power capable of building an atomic bomb that has relinquished its capacity voluntarily. Despite the pressures of being a pariah state under apartheid, it

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never resorted to chemical, nuclear or biological warfare as other so called “world leaders” and “global superpowers” have done. Other potential signatories such as “Zimbabwe”; Mozambique and Madagascar; know the folly of a civil or any kind of war from their past history. The democratic credentials, peace and prosperity of the Seychelles; Botswana; Kenya and Mauritius are well established historically for greater support. It was Tanzania who through Nyerere and the Arusha Declaration; remained committed to peace in Africa.

“Beauty in Nature is Holistic.”

South African Founder of the Philosophy of Holism and Statesman Field Marshall Jan Smuts

Africa as a continent is the most ecologically aware and non-isolated from its Gaia source. The establishment of parks, reserves and sanctuaries from the most hallowed and world oldest Kruger Park, (which, is even older than Yellowstone established over 110 years ago when R.K Loveday suggested it to Paul Kruger) to those of the Serengeti and Okavango. This is combined with the expertise of conservationists from Dr Ian Player to the Bushmen. Tai National Park in the Ivory Coast preserves the rare biodiversity of a 50,000 year old tropical rainforest of which very few samples remain anywhere. The Gorilla Sanctuary in Rwanda, where Dian Fossey conducted her notable research, along with game reserves in Kenya and Loango National Park in Gabon, downwards have been turned into spots of ecotourism. This will now expand across national borders and natural frontiers with the Elephant Corridor from 2012 AD/ 2765 AUC. This is the world’s first cross-country park incorporating Kruger, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Swaziland, in sensitive awareness to pachyderms and others who transcribe and know not of the artificial restrictions of humanity. Ideas for parks spanning South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, such as the Kalahari and Caprivari Strip have also been proposed and partially implemented via the Kgadigadi Trans-frontier Park.

Nigeria’s Sacred Forest is centuries old in protection. One of the first world freshwater lake underwater parks was established at Lake Malawi and Cape Maclear. Malawi also formed the Nkhotaka Game Reserve, the Lengwe National Park and the Loime National Sanctuary. In Johannesburg, its Zoological Gardens replaced cages with natural enclosures and moats during the 1960’s. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town, in addition to being exceptional in its provision of facilities, trails and gardens for the blind, is also the World’s first and only Botanical Garden Heritage Site. African cities are notable for their parks. Both Johannesburg and Pretoria alone have over 100. The Franklin Game Reserve in Bloemfontein is the only one encircled by a city in the world. Durban has one of the few world Dodo skeletons preserved in its Natural History Museum. Elephant populations

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expanded in Zimbabwe, especially in Hwange National Park, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa. Game was primarily preserved in the game reserves of Kenya, thanks to the formidable toil of the Kenyan Dr Richard Leakey, who commissioned game rangers to shoot poachers on sight, which worked.

The Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area was set up to protect wildlife but also allow the Masai the perpetuation of their historic grazing rights along with the Masai Mara and the Serengeti National Parks. Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe was founded on the basis of common sense of actually being self-guided and free to leave one’s vehicle and roam around. The Congo under Mobutu (Zaire) may have been dysfunctional. But at least it serves as another African example for other countries to emulate when it comes to the environment. For example; few other countries have valued the tireless; unglamorous and often forgotten toils of those wardens and rangers; who seek to protect the legacy of wildlife against incessant culls by poachers. A memorial at Virunga Park stands to commemorate the 23 forestry and game rangers murdered during the Congolese War 1960 -1965 CE. 15% of the entire territory of the Congo was defended –enshrined in the Constitution (1% of the entire African continental landmass). The Zaire Institute for Nature Preservation worked with local communities to allow them to survive, but also to allow an environmentally sustainable quantity of game and vegetation cover. Game received presidential attention, especially for its tourism potential...

“We don’t mind at all; having no cathedrals or monuments to show our visitors, because our monuments; our cathedrals... are the legacy our ancestors left us; that is to say, -Nature herself! They are our rivers; our Zaire River, our forests; our animals, our volcanoes, our mountains and our plains. What we want to ensure; is that once the rest of the world has unfortunately turned into one vast concrete jungle, one solitary last wide–open space will still exist, here in Zaire, mankind’s last natural refuge...”

Zaire/Democratic Republic of the Congo President Joseph Desire Mobutu, 1972...

“Our wealth is our animals. Everything revolves around them!”Chief Oumar Ba, Yoly region Senegal

Finally; the world’s most venerable and respected organisation for the defence of the planet’s climate and environment: Greenpeace itself, is currently headed by a South African. Operation Noah under the ranger Rupert Fothergill (commemorated in a Zambezi island), saved over 5000 animals from drowning. Last year, a 10 year plan to protect 50000 chimpanzees with community support to stop poaching and to expand their jungle territory was ratified by Zambia, Tanzania, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Kenya’s Samburu District, a

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Warrior Watch of local morans has been formed to spot wildlife and potential confrontations/conflicts with humans. This is in exchange for food and education along with being taught ecological literacy. Kenya imposed a ban on hunting in 1977, its presidents later flamboyantly burning accumulated tons of it as a symbolic gesture of commitment, and with many African countries from the Seychelles and Mozambique to Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Rhodesia, Botswana, Mauritius, Swaziland and South Africa devoted to nature conservation and to the ban on hunting, whale poaching skins, rhino horns, ivory, crocodile hides and other ravishing of nature selfishly craved and desired by the Chinese and Japanese. The West, China and other superpowers would never put fellow souls above mercenary and short-term profits despite a long-term catastrophe. Yet in Africa, whether domestically or with game, it makes no sense to maltreat animals malignly, as they provide your own chance of survival. Often they provide social and economic status from the Tuareg to the Masai.

Wangari Maathi -the Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize winner; died in defence of her beliefs. For decades; she fought to preserve Uhuru Park in Nairobi; free of development that corrupt officials sought to gain bribes for. She was willing to sacrifice her life in order that ordinary Kenyans could have a n urban oasis; a city green lung amid the smog and pollutants. Other Kenyans who made the effort included Dr Richard Leakey –noted for his reduction of poaching by shooting them. The South African response to the preservation of the 50,000,000 year old coelacanth species after South Africans Smith and Courtenay Latimer discovered it in the Comoros and identified it in East London on the 16 February 1939 has been enshrined in legislation, requiring an official permit to film, discover or catch it. A Comorian fisherman: Ahamadi Abdallah found another in 1952. Rhodesia set at least 12% of its total land surface aside for keeping its environment pure. Within 14 years of Kenyan independence with three parks, rose to 15 with 2 marine, along with 16 nature reserves.

Rhodesians, South Africans, Kenyans, Zambians, Namibians and those of Botswana; pioneered game reserves, sustainable farming and nature conservancies; -making ecotourism sustainable rather than terraforming the wilderness into rows of suburban, drab, monotonous and bleak municipal council dwellings. A founder member of the World Wife Fund and the Southern African Nature Foundation, Dr Rocco Knole served as the Chief Director of South Africa’s National Parks for 26 years. They, and not outsiders, have resisted the incursion of multinational corporations to erode our environment e.g. Ugandans preventing over 21,000 hectares of Malbo rainforest being sold to the Sugar Development Corporation. The Chinese constructed Meroe Dam, which threatened to displace over 60,000 local inhabitants in the Sudan, was also gallantly disputed by locals.

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In the Ivory Coast Lidou or the Human Right’s League fights against illegal chemical dumping by another anti-African corporation Dutch Trafigura BV in Abidjan. Ken Saro Wiwa the Nigerian playwright and environmental activist, of MOSAP does the same against the anti-African oil conglomerates such as Exxon, BP and Shell who taint the Niger Delta. For all their “corporate social responsibility” putrescent midden of propaganda; retard rather than advance local African communities. In 2005 Earthlife Namibia championed the cause against the installation of a uranium mine in the ecologically delicate and pristine natural contours of the Namib–Nauklaft Preserve. The Kimmur Suyatek Rights Group challenged the abandoning of calcium fluoride waste in Keria Valley in East Africa’s Rift Valley.

Mali under Cheikh Amadou has long come up with a system of regulations and measures for sustainable ecological conservation, via common agreement, fishing and timber rights, grazing permits and soil protection to present erosion, desertification and the tragedy of the commons, that the Northern Hemisphere so long forgot and Asia continue to forget. These condition nomads, fisherman, pastoralists and others, to remain sensitive to the limitations of geography. Many remained self-sufficient in food, until the colonial French came along and devastated it, impoverishing a large sector of Mali. Cultural traditions have often been responsible, at least indirect attempts to preserve certain species, even if due to taboos. The Ewe people hold silk cotton trees to be especially sacred along with girdled palm trees. Amid the Wanika of East Africa; the splicing of a coconut tree is viewed as profound a crime as matricide. Amid the Basoga of Central Africa; arboreal deforestation, even of a single tree unnecessarily is treated especially seriously as the angry spirit invokes disease and death upon the offender and their progeny.

The Zimbabwean government, academics from the University of Zimbabwe’s Applied Study Centre and the Zimbabwe Trust from 2742 AUC gave access to wildlife control rights and privileges, to rural communities in over 20 of the country’s 55 districts. Tourism revenue is either paid out to local citizens via cash dividends or allocated to expenditure in public infrastructure such as clinics and schools. Culled meat is also given as another resource to make communities autonomous and self-sufficient. In Mutare, Zimbabwe; a local initiative has managed to persuade youth to collect and recycle paper from businesses in exchange for money from local paper mills. Rural women transform organic tosh into compost. Egypt’s Association for the Protection of the Environment, has tried to improve the conditions of garbage collectors and encourage their recycling efforts as distributors, along with improving the urban environment via playgrounds, parks, schools etc. The Masai in the Amboseli National Park in Kenya received financial compensation from the Kenyan government for loss of their grazing rights. Mauritius adopted an environmental action plan as early as 1989 which banned the dynamiting of fish and the dumping of effervescent much/or untreated waste being dumped into freshwater lakes, 130

rivers or the sea. Hotels with 75 or more rooms; were meant to limit their discharge by having their own sewage treatment and water purification plants. The extraction and sale of coral was banned.

Other modes and systems seek to insulate and isolate globalised society into an artificial plane of existence. Our continent daily reminds us of its temperament and every experience we endure reminds those who eke out their survival. Not all environments are mutable or adaptable! Terraforming is not always equivalent to Enlightenment! There is beauty out there without wrecking it, if we know how to find it. The human species has exponentially increased beyond its ecologically optimum critical balance of equilibrium. Like the Aborigines, in coalescing with Gaia and in awareness of our environs, our perceptions, appreciation and symbiosis with our planet and with Ujaama –re greater as the South African head of Greenpeace: Kumi Naidoo will assert. When it comes to ecological literacy, from the San trackers to the Tuareg to the Masai to the Boers and South African English descendants, a considerable proportion have at least an inkling. They retain more conscious wisdom and ability to read, than the brazen self-proclaimed experts of outside, both in their zones and in our continent. There are myriad sentient examples extending to the intelligentsia, farmers and leadership, who are frightfully and rightfully aware of it. Many of Africa’s leaders since independence have viewed the natural world as another resource to be conserved for their people. Mangosuthu Buthelezi of the South African Inkhatha Freedom Party and a Zulu Chief committed himself to retaining wilderness in nature sanctuaries rather than overdeveloped and exploited for tourists and to work with game conservationists such as Nick Steele and Dr Ian Player for a multiracial and unitary approach to environmental concern that transcends apartheid ideology.

Many African examples abound from which the world could learn. The Latuka of the Nile, remove leaders for withering crops. The Bodio theocracy of Ghana and their priests were overthrown if fishing yields diminished from overexploitation; crops lost fertility due to desertification or if they suffered from deforestation. The Sultan of the Ussukuma people, Nyanza, Lake Victoria and the chief of the Loango in Gabon can be deposed for natural disasters such as a failure to rain in an intense drought, a plague of locusts or other natural disasters. These serve as examples of leadership who knew that conserving the environment mattered and failure to heed it; would have direct intentions. Sao Tome and Principe’s example to refuse oil drilling of avaricious and guzzling gluttons ruining their pristine environment, MOSSOP’s campaign in Nigeria’s Oil Delta and the Seychelles’ decision not to exploit La Dirogue’s tropical beaches voted as among the world’s best; illustrate long term environment over short term profit. What use is all of the money in the Universe, if you have polluted the only known, life sustaining planet so much, that you cannot survive? 131

Those of Madagascar view crocodiles as relations and consequentially, never murder one unless in retaliation for a crocodile attack. When they do, they apologise to the deceased crocodile and Gaia, granting a funeral and an honourable burial. The Jebel of Nuba in the Eastern Sudan are prohibited from killing blackbirds. Gabon’s M’Benga people plant trees to mark birth, especially a pair for those two born together on the same day. As long as the tree thrives, they will thrive. If they fail to look after the trees, they will suffer –providing an arboreal incentive. The Cameroonians believe too, that the life of a person is bound with that of a tree. It was a feature of ancient Egypt theriolatry –or animal worship was a primordial part of its faith and the killing of an exalted animal was considered sacrilegious. Many enjoyed the same rights as humans and received the last rites of mummification for the Afterworld. Bombastis has a cemetery reserved for sacred cats (the Goddess Bast), Saqqara held the catacombs of the sacred Apis bulls and Tebtunis in the Fayoum held sacred crocodiles. Horus beheld falcons as sacred, Thoth –baboons, Hathor –the cow; Anubis –the jackal and Amun the ram.

In education the efforts of Dr Sue Hart, another African who sought to revive passionate enthusiasm for the rights of animals and become emotionally concerned for their plight in her “Animal Ark” series along with handbooks and documentaries for school audiences. The Rhodesians had their own conservation education scheme at Mushandike. The 1971 Forest Act in South Africa enabled the Minister to set aside wilderness areas and within 6 years, 184,500 hectares was personally set aside. The concept of wilderness areas differs from conventional parks as compelling all visitors to take their trash with them and not contaminate the earth by burying it –exposed to baboons. It involves emphasis on walking trails and horses but forbids motor vehicles, planes and powered boats. Legislation and legal commitment to the environment in Africa continues for the last several decades since independence to surpass the short-sighted guzzlers of China and Southeast Asia. Nor, are they as impotent as the “Environmental Protection Agency” of the USA joke that has long been mocked as impotent? Each African nation has ratified Kyoto and its heirs along with supporting myriad conferences on climate change and sustainable development –several of which were hosted in Africa. The worlds’ leading US and Chinese economic and military “superpowers” have yet to affirm the same level of commitment to their planet and fellow Earthling denizens.

“We believe that the youthful leaders of today; mankind’s most precious natural resource, can be strengthened in body, spirit, mind and character by a wilderness experience which assists them to orientate their personalities to the great whole, the total environment, by an awareness of Nature’s processes in the cycle of life that determines the fate of all living things; that the wilderness will derive benefits from the labours of these leaders when they endeavour to assist the conservation of the natural 132

environment and that the quality of the city environment will be enhanced for those who live and work there by leadership inspired by the ideal of designing with nature...”

Wilderness Leadership School Creed.

In October 1977, under the instigation of Dr Ian Player, Sir Laurens Van Der Post (who spoke of the enchantment and wisdom from natural sounds) and others, South Africa hosted the first International World Wilderness Congress. Dr Ian Player joined the Natal Parks Board as a relief ranger in1952 after being inspired by the need of a sanctuary away from the pressures of the modern world on a 200 kilometre trail between South Africa’s Pietermaritzburg and Durban. In 1955, he was sent to curb poaching by both black and whites in the Umfolozi Game reserve, which he personally fought for as the first wilderness area in South Africa secured in 1956. He was amid the first to realise the urgent necessity of endowing the public with environmental education and to involve the local community in providing a sufficient incentive to consolidate wild fauna and counter poaching. In 1957 he took six schoolboys on a Lake St Lucia Wilderness Trail and a year later, started the Wilderness Leadership School with multiracial trails and involvement –in the face of apartheid South Africa. In 1964, whilst chief conservator for Zululand, he established the notion of filming reserves for publicity along with broadcasting documentaries to Anglia Television in 1970 and 1973. This involved the usage of media to try and summon support. In 1974, he left the Parks Board to serve the cause of the International Wilderness Leadership Foundation. In 1959, he introduced walking trails to the Natal Parks Board. His is the story of one of many conservationists in Africa, who tirelessly worked to safeguard natural habitats.

The precedent of eradicating rulers on the precept of environmental catastrophe is an admirable African example, which is another one wishes, the so-called developed world can learn from Africa. Instead of bailing out parasites, degenerates and pillocks, perhaps the G8 and others would invest in an environmental balanced and sustainable economy –their jobs ought to depend on it. Just think… if politics was subject to actual concrete performance and achievement, especially on measures that favour progress on the environment; on welfare of all species, enlightenment, culture and not war/conflict and the entrenched interests of lobbyists and tenders, how much better off we would be. The same applies to biodiversity and ecology. To nullify the threat of removal; the Labari, Lalabo and the Lokyu of the Upper Nile all studied meteorology and their environment. They constructed villages on the tops of mountains to benefit from orographic relief precipitation. Using nature to benefit their communities –but not at the expense of other species; enabled them to thrive synergistically. This provides sufficiently convincing

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historical testimony that it is not inconceivable and impossible; but is actually capable of becoming a conscious reality…

Others learned to live with the environment, not seeking to overextend themselves beyond the ecologically optimum capacity. Various empires from the Meroe to the Ghana and Malian; deliberately imposed limits on their terrain to not burden their planet onerously. It failed to prevent them from thriving and historically surviving. They learnt to make the most of their resources; without straining the wilderness and other gifts given by a beneficent planet. When it comes to innovation in developing environmental technology and accepting standards, Africa surpasses and excels those shot term plutocrat First World consortiums and governments. For instance, the first CO2 measurement product ratings –for its cement were endorsed by the company AfriSam, which also developed slag not clinker, as a cement extender; -which has under half the world’s average carbon footprint emission of 414 kg’s rather than 890 kg’s. In Swaziland; the Courtauld’s pulp mill worked out a recycling process that does not contaminate its water. It was the native Afrikaner Paul Kruger, (not the British Empire) who reconciled the desire for hunting –with game conservation in his world-famous park; realising the attrition rate would have disastrous implications for the future survival of species. Later the independent Rhodesians would extend this self-reliance eco conservation policy further. Europe sacrificed the auroch and the mammoth; the USA the carrier pigeon and the bison; Southern Africans had the forethought to prevent elephants; lions; rhinos; buffalo; buck and many other species, even fynbos and many other species of vegetation. South Africa created its first solar powered high school way before the Northern Hemisphere such as the US have bothered to. It is situated not far from my homeland in Kwa Zulu Natal’s Valley of a Thousand Hills. Myeko High School even has a solar powered computer laboratory. This domestic initiative could like so many others involve major energy savings in return for minimal initial capital input. It could easily be extended to other countries as with so many other continental initiatives.

South Africa has with its Southern hemisphere counterpart; Australia, despite its reliance on mining, sought to target the protection of the environment through potential Pigouvian taxes and environmental protection measures. It includes dune conservation measures on the coast, choosing ecology in a National Park over a new platinum mine (-As Sao Tome and Principe did with oil). Most Western countries, particularly China, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and the USA still fail to realise that without defending the irreplaceable ecological quintessence, they mangle irrevocably their own future economy and chances for survival. Those countries who have sensibly paid attention to their environmental resources, will be the ones that ultimately survive; with the forthcoming changes in this planet. Africans in any case, have long known the value of their continent

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and Gaia, from ancient artificial limits on their empire expansion from Mali, Songhoy and Bornu, to Ethiopia, Monomatopa and Nubia.

As firm evidence; that community outreach projects are not the brilliant outpouring from aid donation agencies of the Northern Hemisphere; they are often considered to be; Zimbabwe came up with CAMPFIRE. This stands for Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resource Education, in the 1980’s to teach locals the importance of conserving the 12.9% of countryside reserved for the ecology. However; in order to make a true environmental difference, we need action. We also need coordination –globally –to utilise not just Africa’s ideas and Africa’s initiatives –nor just the Northern Hemisphere but that of every continent. This matters more rather than so many meaningless, futile, insincere and duplicitous summits –who collectively produce enough wind power to illuminate Equatorial Guinea; the Gambia and Djibouti combined –if a practical means of storing and harnessing it

And so one concludes with a quote from a black South African game ranger...

“It’s up to us –up to you –to see that our children and their children after them, will see the rhino and the lions and the giraffe in the wild. We, the custodians, as human beings, the curators of our planet Gaia; must guard our wild places where the animals, birds and insects live as they have always lived, in symbiosis and peace... We too, you and I, are part of nature –part of the wilderness...”Whether in technology; in Constitutional and legislative protection; whether in creating wildlife preserves and sanctuaries, in literacy, in individual efforts, in customs, history, culture or priority; it remains transparent that Africa has made a difference environmentally. It is endowed with an attitude, that no other continent on this planet shares; one lacking in the others that prefer profit to the future. Our ecological quintessence remains an integral facet of Africa’s legacy, which we alone can bequeath as ours to the rest of the world. It serves as a poignant part of our Renaissance as many countries and archipelagos –such as the archipelago of Sao Tome and Principe, who refused to exploit its oil resources with the perils of malevolent external interference and irreversible desecration We must choose the winding, unpopular but necessary path of environmental consciousness over the popularist highway of immediate material consumption and gratification.

We need to counter poaching as a main objective of conservation. 500 rhinos and more are slaughtered atrociously every year for their ivory. Gunships and the army have to be deployed to blitz the eco destroyers. After all, if they’ve got nothing to do they will continue to sell them to Asia; where trafficking in rhino horns has become so lucrative. We

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need graphic images of slain rhino’s and their desperate children blitzed in African communities and the central streets of Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and China. When a species goes from endemic to extinction within a decade and we can cease it, it is our planetary obligation to enact whatever draconian but necessary act in order to avert its decline. If we devote our armed forces to protecting the rights of our natural inhabitants, they might stand a better chance. They may not have citizenship rights but have just as every right to peacefully exist and to deserve martial protection, as any human; It says something, when humans are so gullible and malleable that they will even stop to stealing the horns off museum exhibits because of its mythological/nonsensical and non-existent virility and other supposed properties. Every rhino is a threat and a target. No amount of pacifist rhetoric, bumper sticker buying, donation giving or acquirement of a plastic rhino horn in solidarity, no speech or leaflet or email is going to concretely save the rhino. We need something that works, whatever it might be.

It has been proposed to legalise the trade. Why not legalise poaching and enslaving of the human race? There are far more and they could be harvested for medical organs and other experiments, which at least bear resemblance to the tests they are supposed to evaluate the outcome of? Ah –but their lives and their organs are supposed to be magically better and more worthy than other species, far more innocent in relation to the atrocities perpetuated against the planet. We should be looking to other measures. There are too many humans and too few rhinos or any other endangered species for us to stuff this up. Or to claim exceptions are valid, to legalise the trade that will just deplete numbers further. Because to sufficiently depress the market price to prevent poaching, thousands of rhinos would have to forfeit their horns or their lives. Given their value we should try other solutions, electronically tagging/ monitoring each one. We would also inject each horn with enough poison to kill/paralyse humans but not enough to harm the rhino –and publicise this. We would also publicise rhino’s using their horns to impale poachers –and other equally graphic images. If it is possible to shame people; to terrify and horrify them, especially young and persuadable, we should try. This is not just on behalf of ourselves but for that of the sake of other species

If there was something more protracted than the death penalty, they would deserve it. Nature endowed the rhino with its horn for many purposes. Who are we to rob the rhino of its most quintessential feature? It’s like depriving a lion of its mane; a songbird of its mellifluous voice; a dog or horse of its tail or a human of their hands? If that was not enough; they not only deprive the elephant of his ivory tusks or the rhino of his horn or the wild feline or bear of their coat/pelt, they torture then murder the poor, hapless fellow organism fabricated by Nature as well to no justifiable point? Poachers deserve the death penalty as many noted conservationists have realised from Dr Richard Leakey of the Kenyan Parks Service to more recent members of the SA Parks Board and the Botswanan 136

Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife Conservation. It was President Robert Mugabe who signed the Legislative Act; empowering wardens and rangers to defend wildlife –other species even with death. The same as one would expect the members of the police or armed forces would do to civilians/citizens. The human race can satiate its appetite without resorting to such despicable actions as poaching. Ecotourism; game farming and aquaculture are definitely alternatives, which are sustainable and do not precipitate extinction.

In essence; the example of Africa shows just what the spirit of conservation means in practical life. For us the disappearance of species and natural habitats; of climate change; desertification; gas flaring and other environmental tragedies are worth fighting against. It shows what can be done, rather than just passively allow it to happen, as the majority of global society seem to accept. Some might quibble, carping and arguing: “What is the point?” “Why make the effort? If nothing else; at least many of Africa’s eco-conscious inhabitants have affirmed concretely and conclusively –that they are willing to try… What is to stop each and every one of us to try and achieve this? Just think, if even one solitary specimen is preserved from total annihilation, is that not something promising; compared to nothing. That is the price of inaction and indecision! If there is something that Africa can teach us; it is to view our world, as more than just a means of acquiring the provender necessary for our survival. It is also something sacred and sacrosanct that in itself is priceless and irreplaceable…

Chapter 7: Asia:

Demographics argues Gaia’s case succinctly. The stark numbers speak for themselves. Over seven billion people is unsustainable for our planet at current boundaries... Although hesitant to propose the terraforming and devastation of another planet; given the human species abysmal track record on Terra, it might be one reason to justify the exploration of Mars and others, used in several options as a penal colony for degenerates and other exiles. The planet was not meant to support so many humans… Some cite the Asian model of development triggering high economic growth levels at the expense of the environment and welfare as often the model to follow. But the Dune Approach and chapter on environmental economics further disprove this The World should adopt the Chinese solution of the one child policy, which worked to reduce their populace. We can only promote family planning as a natural way consistent with our spheroid’s attempts to impose population limits for all species. This is so that no singular species can become so dominant; that they threaten the resources; extinction and livelihood of any other species. It also ensures no singular species can be so crass to disintegrate the very process that makes then and other co–inhabitants of this world. It is spectacularly selfish and hubris

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induced to ensure that only our species can survive and those things necessary to human nutrition/clothing etc…

The issue is to prevent the numbers of Asia’s new generation of economic participants from falling into the United States Abyss. If they continue to heed the stagnation models of the US; Japan and Europe; they will never far into the same yawning abyss that so many find themselves from 2008 onwards. How to be satisfied with less? That is the recurring question that has haunted humanity throughout the ages as a prime focus of religious belief. If this can be applied to the environment; we might be able to sustain somewhat more life forms. In future; the debate should concentrate on this burning quandary. If ecological devastation were incorporated into growth rates, the impressive economic growth rates of the “Asian Tiger” economies, would not only not exist, it would be regressing. Growth without sustainability is only the equivalent of nurturing a burgeoning ulcer; a festering abscess swelling more and more. One day –t will burst; spewing everyone with its foetid remnants. The planet cannot indefinitely absorb all humanity decides to dispose in it. The planet alone; cannot modify human activity –Humans alone are responsible and humans alone need to resolve the issue.

The examples of Asian individual initiatives that can be endorsed include the examples of Nepal and Bhutan. They realised that foregoing mass tourism; commercialisation and advertising; concentrating merely on the luxury market provides a powerful way for those expressing their valuation of pristine environments from their willingness to pay high prices. This simultaneously preserves resources/ species and nature for locals, so that they might gain from conserving their environment. It is a model endorsed by Switzerland; New Zealand; the Seychelles and the gorilla safaris of Rwanda. Is it not better for these places to be exclusive to those paying for it –to ensure their survival, while benefitting locals? This is rather than face the environmental penalties and costs of mass tourism; where most ecologically vulnerable resulting in the need to close sensitive spots in Thailand and others, thanks to the “Lonely Planet” overcrowding backpacker tourism phenomenon.

Only by paying attention to the will of Gaia; do we have any chance for her to cooperate. We have to either reform or pre empt our planet; who will retaliate with ever cascading catastrophes. One way of reform is for the Asian, American and Pacific regions to fortify themselves against a natural disaster. Only with ecological literacy, energy, zest and the will –that never again will we treat our planet so callously; will we weather the elements. Only by heeding the hearkening portents embodied in natural disasters can those; avert the fatal monsoons, tsunamis, earthquakes, epidemics and pestilences; that the Gods and Gaia send to those who would desecrate this sacrosanct biosphere. For example; ecological rehabilitation of mangrove swamps and their extension; along with the aversion of dune erosion; corroding the coastlines; would reduce the impacts of both

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flooding and tsunamis. These events will escalate in duration, frequency and intensity in the forthcoming Century –the Century of Storms (from the macro climate change)

Chapter 8: Europa

Europe differs; in at least trying; where the Second and Third Worlds cannot afford to and the US and Canada fail. For example; using watermills; the existing precipitation; rivers; streams and canals for hydro power and transportation, represents an improvement on many countries. These have adopted the United States policy of roads and highways rather than navigating rivers or using mass rail transit. Individual countries have made their effort, especially Switzerland and Scandinavia to restore their degraded environments historically as much as possible. This is possible now that human advancements in education; science and technology make this an effective reality without compromising on the quality of life; welfare and economic progress enjoyed by citizens. Examples include reclaiming wetlands and marshes and ensuring the original flow of watercourses; from historic human diversions to benefit wildlife and dependent ecology. Equally; we can afford to extend rights and improve materially the circumstances of other species particularly in Europe; at this time perhaps more than many other points in our recorded history. These examples show that above all else; it is possible to prioritise both high indicators of GDP/GNP and UN HDI/Environment Progress Indicators; -an example for

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the rest of our planet to follow. Switzerland has maintained its picturesque countryside through rural subsidies. Through an association of local owners; it prevented overgrazing on the Alpine meadows for centuries. (thereby averting the tragedy of the commons). Denmark is the world’s largest producer of wind turbines. It refuses to consider nuclear power given its potentially lethal environmental contamination consequences. It will avoid the risks of Chernobyl as not being worth it); Norway has been renowned for its hydroelectric power and usage of its glaciers for ecotourism. Sweden has honoured certain environmentalists through the institution of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Denmark was the first country of all major Western Hemisphere powers of historic significance to create a separate environmental affairs cabinet ministry in 1971 –recognising the need to focus on the environment. In 1990; it sought over the next century to double existent trees via rapid afforestation. Since 1993; it has proven a carbon emissions tax is effective at convincing businesses to reform and choose alternatives; given that air pollution emissions dropped an estimated 50% on average between 1993 -2001. Over 80% of paper originates from recycled sources. A unique initiative that many other nations would do well to adopt is that of the Green Key Initiative. This rates hostels and other places of accommodation on their environmental conservation measures Examples include recycling, water conserving showers, organic breakfast food products; low emission lightbulbs, banning smoking and environmentally sensitive laundries/ detergents. Denmark’s audacious yet commendable decision to spare Greenland and the Faeroe Islands from massive industrialisation is also proof of its willingness to practically consider the environment in policy decision making. This diverges from other historic powers such as France in New Caledonia; the USA and UK in the British East Indian Ocean Territories and others; have sought only to exploit for alternative policy decisions ignoring the environment local communities. The example of pricing congestion parking has worked well to reduce car traffic, wherever it has been tried from London to Switzerland to as far as Tokyo.

We need to avert ecological mistakes. After several thousand years of human habitation; practically the entire North Sea; English Channel and Mediterranean need purifying of all their venomous offal. They also need respite from overfishing. Entire marine coastland sanctuaries could be created for tourism and to allow species to rehabilitate. The waterways could also be restocked. Bycatch will be banned –strict quotas introduced –only those creatures directly intended to serve a use in their death –for human production or consumption need to die. Waterways especially in historical areas such as the North Sea; the Mediterranean; the Black Sea and the South/ East China Seas; the main fisheries of Newfoundland; the Atlantic Ocean and off the coast of Japan; South Africa and Namibia; need to be frozen from human exploitation for a considerable period. Until 140

Nature manages to heal it; will have to restrict human input and discharge to the bare essential that cannot be provided for by organic aquaculture. It will be rotated until the entire area not covered by marine reserves is rehabilitated. Before shipping is allowed ashore it will have to prove that it will filter and process its toxic sludge in reprocessing and reclamation tanks/recycling facilities situated at each major harbour of the world. They will have to prove they are ratifying international law; which prohibits dumping at sea. This is so that we do not end up with the drifting island sized pollutant bank; adjacent to New York’s Hudson and East Rivers. Rivers must be more than sludge.

The mistakes that Iceland made in transforming its pristine landscape into an aluminium smelter, now useless and virtually idle in a recession will never again be permitted. Saving the environment serves people. In fluctuating business cycles and downturns most people are not served by the enrichment of a few; who have the sense and the wealth to live in areas not so affected, but pay little or nothing directly for the problems they have caused. Ecological solutions that Europa can present to the world include championing the environmental movement; ratifying Kyoto and other legislation and establishing Green Belts for its cities. London improving its air quality stands and getting rid of its 1960’ s pea soup smog (which cities from Taipei to Tokyo; from Bangkok to Los Angeles; would do well to follow). It could present to the world examples of congestion parking; urban mass transit and promoting businesses etc. to remain in urban centres, generating and containing less pollution.

Europa has been leading the world for millennia. Where the US is failing to lead; it is trying so remarkably. However; there is so much more it could do… as could others… Regional and pan-nation international organisations such as the European Union; United Nations; International Maritime Organisation; World Trade Organisation; ASEAN: SADC; NAFTA; MERCOSUR and others could specifically set up sections to concentrate on the environment. That is the concern of the environmental movement that Europe with its historical record in being pioneers of specific environmental affairs ministries; might be best to provide the resources and qualified beings capable of coordinating global conservation efforts. This includes helping to lead the equivalent of a UN based model Earth Environmental Conservation Organisation. At the moment; it is one of the most crucial (if not the most crucial) issues facing us all.

One has to query humanity’s wrath against the very environment and conditions that made it capable of existing aeons ago, not to mention, reaching all attained... We would be nothing; without our world. Europe needs to remember this... It was Europe through the United Kingdom who introduced the world to brutally mowing lawns, placing cement and concrete in their cities; removing the plants and open green spaces for centuries. Gaia is not only imperative and fundamentally essential; she is elemental! The world defines

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who we are; what we are and Europe needs to accept this. So, does the Middle East in particular; Dubai with its sense of perversion in morphing Gaia. Golf courses soaking up fresh water are better used for irrigating life, not the rich’s sense of depraved amusement at the expense of us all. The same could be said for the artificial snow mountain. Humanity is excelling at going to greater and even greater efforts to screw up its environment; by terraforming completely inappropriate environs. This is heedless of the environmental consequences, simply because it can… and wants to… And that is the issue to contend with. None of these are about improving human capacity to survive/thrive but only to benefit the small minority that can afford them. In the future the environment will be protected as these projects as memorials to over–staggering human folly and hubris are prohibited on the environmental basis as superfluous and wasteful.

Chapter 9: North America

The US has always proven itself to be the Antagonist towards Earth. Successive Presidential administrations; Congressional sessions and lobbyists and electoral manifestos; the much-vaunted Constitution and Bill of Rights have all historically ignored the environment. This is in contrast to many other nations of the world, to which at least token symbolic gestures and nominal inclusion, even if lip service has at least been committed. The economic methods of US capitalism; corporatism and business have all historically ignored the environment pursuing profit and self-interest in the short term even where it does not benefit others in the short; medium or long-term period. Too often in general; they prefer to not only sacrifice their domestic environs but ours as well. This would not be so fatal… But it inherited economic, political, cultural and military dominance from European historic colonial powers such as Great Britain and France after World War 2. Hence it is the major source of influence and inspiration for most of the world to model itself on. Even China and India, proud nations with venerable legacies of their own have chosen to follow the materialist; consumption seeking; short term economic growth maximisation strategy rather than any quality of life; environment or other alternative i.e. the social welfare democracies of Scandinavia; a Federated empire; a

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Thalassocracy; an environmental based theocracy or those which worked for themselves so well in the past. Yet the form of control that western globalisation seeks enriches a few; impoverishes the majority; creates so many problems; dissension and strife. It rapes the source of life itself. Is this example really worth following? Do we not have the will and capacity to resist their power?

And yet; the world is not as powerless against the US as it appears. For there are many forms of power and forums to exercise influence in order to prompt the USA to comply with coordinated international environmental efforts. This specially includes those to avert climatic transformations from disrupting the human race as the singlemost terrorist against the environment itself. These include economic, political, social, cultural, martial, diplomatic and other punitive measures. Sanctions to ensure the Paris Agreement is complied with may be the only means of forcing the USA to cooperate, if it finds traditional access to markets, resources, customers and trade restricted unless it complies. The North American continent consists of three considerable violators on a national level –the political entities of the USA; Canada and Mexico. The United States cannot continue to brazenly defy every single global initiative and attempt to do anything about the environment. Canada will not be allowed to continue its logging violations in Less Developing Countries (LDC’s). Mexico will not receive such favourable endorsement in its production of higher polluting traditional industrialisation rather than a more sustainable form of development. (Global economics –demand and supply characteristics –does not compel examples such as those of Mexico –to ignore environmental efforts.)

What hope is there for the USA? –The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is the biggest joke in the world... it lacks a history of victorious reforms; sufficient infrastructure; resources; enforcement and judicial powers; political, public/ social and media support and other instruments to ensure a successful prosecution of environmental violators. As for the so-called Arctic Wildlife Refuge in Alaska... –there is only a manner of time before the lure of oil wins them over... –over the narrowly averted attempts to build a giant oil pipeline through the reserve. What other nation (apart from China_ refused to ratify and fully implement the Kyoto Protocol –before it elapsed… and is reluctant to cooperate in drafting a successor. Environmentally –the disaster’s magnitude is globally accelerated through the efforts of two countries serving mostly as denialists... These are China and the United States of America (USA). Without efforts by them to utilise the environment as part of the economy –of green versus fossil fuels for example... any serious attempt at reform will falter and continue to falter. There can be no denying in needing to reduce the output of emissions for this country when in 2005 alone; the US Energy Information Administration estimated that the emissions of the US exceeded those of the South Pacific; Africa; South and Central America combined.

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Ecological solutions North America can present to the world include the Environmental Defence Fund established at Berkeley University in California. This seeks to negotiate environmental improving targets and compromises on standards; sponsoring incentives and using lobbying power with the 25 corporations which joined it to promote the environment. It managed to ban lead from petroleum and urged McDonald’s to ban foam packaging. It also utilised the profit increasing/cost minimising reason. Reducing packaging lowers expenses; in addition to being completely superfluous. However; the archipelagos and tropical regions of the world could further exploit their natural beauty and potential not to plunder it; but to preserve minimal human intrusion through developing ecotourism and other such benefits; as the Caribbean have done so successfully for centuries. These lack mineral and other conventional resources often erroneously considered necessary for economic and social progress along with the eradication of poverty. Besides from a cost efficiency point of view it also makes sense –pristine beach returns such as the 12 miles of Grace Bay on the Turks and Caicos and scenery are far higher than it would be to exploit them; given how much many value these for holidays. In a world which prioritises our relationship with our environment as a fundamental priority to stimulate in an attempt to encourage it (starting from greater school trips with wilderness leadership experiences). This could be combined with attempts to metamorphosized transport; technology and our economy to have zero environmental discharge impact; tourism –even locals will have even greater potential.

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Chapter 10: South America

With every continent the absolute question above all others is: “To what extent; do its people value their environment? By extension; to what degree are humans prepared to go to save it? If they see a value to it, especially one that exceeds current perceived benefits… then they might not be so reticent and hostile to the concept. South America also appears not to value it that much. This is despite having considerable biodiversity and natural heritage at its disposal to benefit from potentially. A sustainable environment is worth more than all the land cleared for livestock agricultural cultivation, removing all the nutrients and topsoil. It is to be more cherished then turning it to the Sahara or the Great Dustbowl across Middle America in the 1930’s from overgrazing. Agriculture is better when ecologically appropriate. Stakeholders could gain far more from sustainable yields of fruit, nuts, herbs, medicine and natural organic products on a continuous basis, then a once off deforestation crop harvest yield with diminishing marginal returns of production.

The first challenge is the Amazon rainforest and the deforestation policies actively endorsed by the Brazilian government. They seem to have failed to realise just how much the potential biodiversity they sacrificing is worth. They still retain basic ecological ignorance, when they could be charging and marketing pure oxygen. They could be replenishing rare botanical and animal specimens so that they can research/ market all potential benefits. They also do not seem to realise the potential leverage and utility they have –in providing one of the main sources of oxygen and reduction of global warming/

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depletion of the ozone layer. With active green and blue carbon markets being endorsed as the newest investment horizon via the blue/green economies, they need to prioritise it. It

However; the Developed world has mostly ignored the efforts of the Developing, when it has made isolated or sporadic attempts to conserve. Of the Second and Third Worlds; the majority have contributed comparatively little to the global agenda for environmental reform. For they have been given comparatively little chance to contribute. Despite contributing less pollution output; than the developed countries who experienced all the economic consequences of the Industrial Revolution era and subsequent technical progress; it is the inhabitants of our less well-off fellow countries; not theirs –that will suffer. Industrialised and service-based economy countries need to realise that the environment of the entire world will affect them, not just that in their quadrant; hemisphere or particular nation... They have to face it; that the greatest chance for them to avert a global disaster; is to work with emerging/not so advanced economies and with other species; in a covenant safeguarding a partnership of equals. The Great Environmental Convention; Earth Declaration; Dune Approach and Elemental Charter of Species Emancipation and Rights needs to be drafted and implemented by all. The academics, NGO’s; governments, individuals and institutions may be qualified; with experience and the finest of degrees and education. But they need to listen to the Third World and soon. Outsiders do not know the realities of environmental change upon each individual, habitat and nation in South America, the Pacific, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean. They cannot comprehend what will happen or what the priorities for reform should be; nor the ecological history that surrounds it and our different approaches to conservation/our initiatives etc... Only those raised, born or have lived here; can possibly have a clue. They are best equipped to find solutions. For example; the First World need to pay indigenous people to provide an incentive to conserve their environment, where education and common sense fail. Ecological defence could become a condition of aid for the Caribbean, Central and Southern America.

To quote: “Destroying a tropical rainforest and other species rich ecosystem for profit is like burning all the paintings of the Louvre to cook dinner.”

-Thomas L Friedman.

To wantonly, randomly and arbitrarily destroy the irreplaceable without clarity, purpose or meaning; is the most glaring form of stupidity that anyone mortal, immortal, natural or celestial; could merit.... Hitherto, human civilisation can only survive on anything even remotely resembling its current self-indulgent and self-absorbed lifestyle; if it adopts one of two options. Or else face the reality of climatic metamorphosis and the dearth of every 146

achievement; every materialist possession and virtually every species known at the moment. It can either adopt a far-ranging space programme or Astronautical Odyssey to charter and colonise any potential other worlds in this galaxy and others, with resources –and colonise using species from our planet etc. This dreams to annex Mars; and the moons of Jupiter –Io; Calisto; Ganymede and Europa; following science fiction and the extension of projects of the International Space Station. But that would involve shifting the resources from fruitless arms races, overexpanded armed forces and conflicts, not to mention time and greater research investment. Alternatively; it can create a true Green Revolution –utilising every idea of fact and fiction. This endorses every proposal outlined here; by environmental organisations; by the media; academia; governments; corporations; communities and individuals, with their active participation. This applies whether rich and poor; First; Second and Third World; North and South; Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Or it can adopt both. Or it can continue doing nothing with ever more natural disasters; agrarian insecurity; submerging of archipelagos; climate related event extremes and ever escalating chaos...

Chapter 11: Oceania

Oceania –Australia; New Zealand and the Pacific might be noted as merely the Forgotten Continent; for all the lack of environmental and general attention –if it weren’t for one simple thing... They are not blind to the environmental cause. After all; they have had to suffer; the effects. from bushfires and extreme temperatures exceeding forty degrees Celsius in the major cities of Australia over recent years; earthquakes in New Zealand; rising tides in the South Pacific. and nuclear tests by the French. The South Pacific have the most to lose if climatic change does arrive. Along with the East Indian Ocean islands of the Maldives; the Seychelles and the Comoros; the islands of Micronesia; Polynesia; Kiribati and Tuvalu may not mean much to many; but they stand to face partial or total sea immersion; if the sea level were to rise several feet...

Ecological solutions that Oceania can present to the world include the simple fact that unlike so many other areas, they have greater prospects for conservation and ecotourism. As a continent, as various islands and archipelagos, they can present models to other realms of those that have not irrevocably destroyed their environments through the blight and pestilence of a deluge of human beings… In addition they have caused less extinctions of species on average, perhaps as the last of the continents to be colonised by the Old World and its pro material, human centred, anti-planet ideology and introduced to the modernised world. It has an abysmal and atrocious volume of deliberate roadkill slaughter by Australian drivers as personally witnessed, dissuading tourism. The examples of Oceania individual initiatives include the non-pollutant; eco-friendly solutions of not only; the islands above but also; those of Fiji and Papua New Guinea. New Zealand and Australia are among the many countries that are clearly benefitting from conserving rather than exploiting their environments. The latter; draws revenue from visitors eager to visit Uhuru (Ayer’s Rock) and the Great Barrier Coral Reef. The former seeks to use its Tolkien characterised, legendary landscapes, where they filmed the 147

Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy; to encourage visitors. This provides a rare example of how the film industry of Hollywood could play a greater part in the green movement; then (with a few well publicised exceptions grossly exaggerated); it is currently doing at the moment...

When most people think of New Zealand (assuming they do); we think of one of the handful of developed nations that is rarely mentioned. This is undeservedly; given that its historical priorities have been unusually successful. The right priorities –have been targeted to human and environmental health/ welfare since the beginning. In defiance of virtually every major and orthodox development model; which argues for heavy industrialisation; it; Canada and Australia stand as glaring refutations of the Fisher Clarke Thesis and Rostow’s five stages of growth; by using agriculture; the environment and tourism as the basis of sustainable economic growth. (defying the take off stage both of industrialisation and the imperialism/ colonisation stage). It has preserved its environment and restricted development. When necessary; it will be countries like New Zealand with greater reserves; that will have greater economic and environmental security in this Age of Uncertainty or forecasted Century of Storms and Accelerated Global Warming.

New Zealand has also been a nation who favours the interests of the planet and ecological conservation far more than most First World countries who are pro globalisation and anti-environmentalism. Unlike the militarist superpowers or permanent members of the eminent United Nations Security Council (all with far more porous environmental track records); New Zealand has not been afraid to demonstrate their theory with action. This is most emphatically demonstrated in the refusal to allow US vessels to enter ports if nuclear but also in the support of the Rainbow Warrior’s attempts to defend a nuclear free Pacific (opposing the French detonation tests and exercises, which violated international law). The French navy blew it up in Auckland Harbour.

New Zealand would be an excellent candidate for the Zone of Peace that the nations of Africa and the island archipelagos of the East Indian Ocean from South Africa to Madagascar, Mozambique and the Seychelles are seeking to propose. Like these countries and Australia/ other sovereign states of the Pacific it has decided to renounce the Warfare Mentality. Like Australia it has elected consistently Green politicians over recent administrations; established many parks and remained decisively committed to supporting ecological causes... This defies other so called “Developed Nations” have spewed glib rhetoric bereft of anything really accomplished. Ever since the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi; first the British and then the New Zealand government; have always aspired to involve the Maori community in protecting their environment and land. (A clause specifically secures for the chiefs and the people they represent) Environmentally; both parties have therefore seen the sense (aided by a small stable population) of not degrading their most valuable asset.

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Chapter 12: The Arctic and Antarctica

Do they even have a future –in a climate changed world?

The Arctic would disappear based on being merely icebergs and pack ice with no underlying land. Everything that depends upon its surface and presence would disappear. But so many humans wouldn’t care –or haven’t even thought about it. As a species we can seldom focus on that which matters, unless it is immediate or appears to have some tangible connection to us. But this treatise argues for the significance of finding a way to conserve all species and all environments –not just our own. Even tundra has multiple possibilities…

It is therefore essential to prevent the disturbance that would occur and the permanent loss of an entire ecosystem and biome, that of the polar biosphere. This means that we prioritise measures to preserve glaciers, snow, tundra… and the species that depend on them. Our world would be poorer for losing icebergs for the recreation/leisure; the tourism potential, emergency drought water supply and the resources that sustain us… But most of all the spectacular natural splendour that will be sacrificed within the next two or three decades. If we stop to apply a tourniquet to the haemorrhage. If we as humans can resist picking the scab. we can prevent the bleeding or in this case; the melting of the polar ice caps. Our world would be poorer and we would have to try and find a way of reaching the moons of Jupiter; the planets of Saturn, Uranus and Neptune to find an even broadly similar equivalent. Imagine a world with no polar bears, penguins, seals or certain whales. Oh, and condemning the Inuit, Laplanders, huskies and others as well. As humans, we have to consider if we wish to continue our ways. We need to know for ourselves just what it might mean for others, even and especially human beings, who are also dependent upon these modifications and climatic disturbances.

The examples of the Arctic and Antarctica individual initiatives include that of prohibiting discharge/human contamination from visiting cruise ships. It honours a legacy dreamed of

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by Roald Amundsen; Robert Scott; Ernest Shackleton and the other pioneer polar explorers. With the Arctic and Antarctica, we need to preserve them as conservation symbols of the best that we as humans can achieve in putting our minds to it and accomplishing anything. It offers the ultimate international effort, that we managed –one of the great success stories of the last century, which history may generally concede as the most destructive so far. That way, those of us who do value the wilderness and seek solace and inspiration into transforming not just this planet but others into a Paradise –fabled Elysian Fields or Shangri La. For all species will have the chance to visit it or to be even just inspired by it…

Antarctica could serve as a template for other planets if ever we reach them. Or it serves as an example of dozens of countries that honour environmental movements... After all; what is to stop us from reaching such an agreement to prevent mineral and species exploitation; to avoid pollution; to consider limiting populations and devoting the continent to pure research? Ecological solutions that the Arctic and Antarctica can present to the world include an example where development and industrialisation is prohibited and where scientific research is valued over profit. It is an example of diplomatic success in the nations of this world. It approximates a true environmental oasis, where human impact is restricted. It is a sanctuary for fauna and flora, whose academic research and the environmental role it plays in stabilising the ozone layer/wind circulation system –polar jet streams etc. more than make up for any lack of human exploitation. It shows how we can benefit from not exploiting a resource and cooperate…

Most volumes devoted to advancing the cause of conventions; fail to highlight our successes as the most poignant way of showing that we can do something about the environment. All of us can work together to avoid polluting and contaminating the world; to mutual benefit for all. In denial of their disbelief that we can and are able to resolve our problems. This treatise notes the original Treaty and amendments; to remind us of the degree to which we have accomplished those objectives in the last few decades. From 1 December 1959; the treaty’s signatories renounced individual state sovereignty; commercial exploitation; usage as military staging posts and pollution waste dumping. It was further renewed in 1998 by the main 12 (Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the USSR, UK and USA); and another 34. Each was able to put the planet before divergences in political ideology, economics, foreign policy; culture etc. They chose scientific research and the environment as an achievement which any human being and state can be proud of (especially those honouring it). It was implemented that it might serve as an example to encourage us to extend this treaty to every ecologically sensitive and contested area. It aims to use this as a prototype in colonisation of other worlds and extra-terrestrial bodies capable. We must not forget that

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which we have accomplished and attempted for the Arctic, the Antarctic and others. This is so that we never lose what we have gained and desire to do such in the future.

Chapter 13: Motivation: -Environmentalist Psychology

“In an overpopulated (or overexploited world), a system of the commons leads to ruin... Even if an individual fully perceives the ultimate environmental and other consequences of his or her own actions; he or she is unlikely to respond in any other way, for he or she cannot count on the restraint his conscience might dictate, being matched by a similar restraint on the part of all others.

George Hardin; Carrying Capacity as an Ethical Concept 1967.

There is no escape from the mistakes of our ancestors...

But we can start to make an effort now. If we started a faith based on the planet, would anyone pay attention? Would they do so before it’s too late? This section concentrates on the fundamental psychology of humanity –eternal throughout the aeons. Unfortunately; the truth is most are essentially passive. As defeatists they either accept the status quo or fear to change it. Or even when they agree, they expect that some other exalted Messiah will come along and do all the work for them. It could be said with candour that the majority of the human race; does not feel that the ecological cause is urgent enough to merit attention and devote time to it. Yet they can find the time for social networking and other such activities, -even those who proclaim that they are so devoted to this. It is way too often too simple to abdicate responsibilities, to pretend that the problem isn’t there –and doesn’t exist. It is easier to distract oneself, to postpone any decision. It is more tempting not to resolve; to ensure any commitment and to pretend that we are so helpless. It is too self-indulgent to determine there is nothing; each and anyone of us can do; matters. But if we all felt like this, with indolent stupor and lethargy; we would get nowhere.

The perils of being a wallflower is that everyone relies on you too much. And yet the committed activist should not have to save the planet on behalf of an ungrateful human species unprepared to take up its defence. They can publicise; they can prompt action;

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they can protest and invite people to join in. But ultimately their cause is lost; if people remain apathetic by the fate of their planet. People need clear motivation and interest to champion this cause, until we actually get somewhere. Humans require some sense of fealty to their planet, if it is to be worth saving on their behalf. But even if humans often at times are disparaging and do not seem to be worth it; what about our own lives and that of other species; as a sufficient inducement. The thing all need to remember is what is it that makes our experience of life possible? The environment Gaia herself? Anything that we do and can enjoy or are appeased/comforted by. There must be something; that affirms Earth’s greatness can only exist whilst we conserve this. We would ask for them to support us. After all; it’s not as if even the foulest polluter wouldn’t ultimately gain far more than they temporarily sacrifice; if they decided to recant their planet hating apostasy and join. (As naïve as that might appear). But is it worth saving or even trying to save; those who embrace this planet snuffing present course irrevocably? Or should we exclude them?

So why for all this publicity, has no one done something? There has been enough time, resources, opportunities and technological advances to make such occur. Environmentalism may be this century’s new creed but how do we motivate people to act, given the current efforts are clearly not working? How do we provoke change? How do we convince them not to renounce an Ecological Revolution as a solution? Do they want to face the problems and the solutions to get over them? Or do they want to ignore them? What could we do to reconcile humanity to champion the welfare of other species? How can we get them to be persuaded of the necessity for action? How can we convince them to believe in environmentalism enough to support those who do care, rather than just treating them as misfits? How do we persuade them not to abdicate their responsibilities to their planet and to just avoid the impulse to surrender? We have to face reality –whether it is unpalatable or not. We cannot just escape and be isolated from it; via more materialism and technology, which fails to really resolve anything. These questions help us to confront it. They should be asked by anyone who is starting to realise that something must be done and urgently.

How can we get the poor to realise the need not to treat this world as a disposable one –one that merely exists not to be exploited; especially relating to their own lives? But we could defend it on ways to directly improving their existence including reducing environmental costs; increasing health and the quality of life. Our advantage is that we have something adherents of globalisation do not have, something worth fighting for… What is worth defending of the current system? There may be some aspects and advances that have helped humanity and the world. But there are far too many that are not. When it comes to the environment; each passing moment means that we sacrifice even more… We could certainly point out how the poor have gotten poor under the current 152

neoliberalism system. We could highlight that if they continue to support it; many will face the recurrent cycle of poverty, without many material advantages whatsoever. These things are so avoidable. So why not try to avoid and reduce them? What is worth defending about defoliating the environment? The poor will invariably be the first to suffer. Do they wish to incur the additional risks? Can they afford them? Besides; a healthy environment benefit all.

How many really, truly care? If so –why? Why not save the ecosystem and the environment, even small parts of it where we can? Why is it not possible? It is not an impossible vision. But so few even seem to be trying. Despite what they might profess –despite awareness of these factors, how many have made this a priority? If not; why not? Perhaps the reason why so few value their environment so much; is that they do not know what a truly clean environment is like. Thus, they cannot value one untainted by the macabre squalor and filth of human existence. They become inured to the hideous and have lost the capacity of disgust; contempt and shame that so many have. The impact of increasing urbanisation on human and environmental health is so well documented that its negative effect is blindingly transparent. Yet astonishingly; they still transgress against their world. They have never been raised to appreciate nature, never undertaken a wilderness leadership course as was mandatory at one’s grammar school. They have never been educated to be ecologically literate. Or they have been insufficiently punished for littering; maltreating other species or other crimes against the planet. So, to what extent can they be blamed? They are less reprehensible than those who have known these things and ended up losing them. Those who willingly and knowingly; in the full consequences of their actions despoil the very earth they tread upon; the very air they inhale; the very water they ingest and every species that provides sustenance for them; it is they for whom we should not reserve our pity but our vitriolic contempt.

If the human species infesting Earth are not convinced after all the effort to persuade them about doing something about the environment, then well... Perhaps we should leave them to suffer... If they cannot be bothered to do something for others and common sense points out for them; then how can we environmentally aware; be expected to have sympathy. There is only a finite degree of tolerance and capacity for patience that we are capable of possessing towards them and to relate to their anti-conservation ethos? Unlike most other vices and issues, it is not something that only affects them –it affects us all. Why must we be so indifferent to the planet? Why do we tolerate those that are so malevolent or apathetic to the environment? Why must we put up with them ruining our future? Why are we so spineless; so gutless? Why can we do absolutely nothing about it? Even if one’s own kith just consume scarce resources and scoff at environmentalism; then perhaps we should be selective enough; to purge those who do not care for the environment and will continue to desecrate it; regardless of whatever we do. Our 153

allegiance to humans should not blind us from forfeiting our responsibility to other species just as worthy; if not better. There are only so many methods and only so many attempts; we can seek to try; before the lifeline of the planet fades irrevocably...

There are several tactics from the main influences of elemental psychology: These include; ambition, lust; fear, greed –economics and the implications for our quality of life, empathy and a conscience; not mention charisma and popularity as equally motivating factors. We also need praise and other incentives to dangle before them to show what can be done to those prepared to try with tangible efforts. Examples range from tax reform incentives for compliance and public award ceremonies to celebrate those who have done something; plus events to promote the environment. However; we need everything from criminal prosecution of violators to compulsory litter patrol and environmental conservation for repeated violators; to public humiliation; shame and condemnation. Maybe those shunned from their peers and from society; will be more inclined to cooperate. Constant awareness; unceasing, eternal vigilance; enlightenment, being willing to act; demonstrating passion; devotion; homage; praise and appreciation to the planet that is preferable to the alternatives of inaction or hostility.

Ambition is simple. It ensures that doing one’s necessary part for our planet and concern for it along with merit; qualifications and experience; will be one of the major prerequisites for advancement in society, employment, government; allocation of citizenship; being awarded of tenders and contracts etc. When people realise that it is worth investing in; it will convince the unpersuadable to treat this campaign seriously. The environment has to translate into jobs and other signs of progress. Otherwise the poor and the majority will fail to see the relevance of the conservation movement on the drudge of their diurnal existence. They will dismiss it as merely the concern of the affluent –or the radical fringe sect. It is this dream –the hope and aspiration to uplift themselves from their dire circumstances and their being; that provides true motivation in their lives. These aspirations are not just constricted to the higher income levels and better educated. We would launch prototypes and pilot projects in impoverished areas that are organic; sustainable; conserve or are “green.” But the only way that this might work is if the people themselves are consulted to directly provide their ideas and input. If considered feasible by academia; commerce and the state they could receive sufficient conditional financing/ grants/microcredit. These areas need targeting because only with sufficient education and the possibilities of alternative/to change; does the world we inhabit face a chance.

Lust: Currently; only environmentalists and a fringe sect of humanity have any semblance of lust; passion or devotion to their planet. This needs to change. Lust and this obsession; needs to translate into the desire to conserve. Conservation; religion; economics and politics all need to fuse into one movement. For only then will they be willing and capable

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of change. Lust is synonymous with passion and obsession in one’s attachment. Why not extend this to every part of natural beauty –and that of life? How can it be considered a ghastly; terrible thing to feel this way towards the planet? This merely shows the degree to which one values the planet –s besotted and concerned enough to have empathy and is willing to do something –not just to say that. It serves as a means of testing their fealty and themselves. How do we project lust? Infatuation at the very least could arise from exposure/contact with other species and scenes of pristine wilderness. Introduce people to the entire concept of ecological literacy and sensitively as early as possible, while young enough to be malleable and able to do this, in all aspects of the world.

Fear: Unfortunately; Hollywood and all its films portraying disasters have made this factor more trysting to use through sheer repetition. So that even if legitimate challenges threaten us such as those which disfigure the planet and threaten to create the pandemonium of a collapsed ecosystem; it is not taken seriously. Frequently this is because as humans we yawn in complacency at scenes popularist celluloid entertainment has already conjured up for us. How does one seek to warn of disaster; when the media and cinematic circuses that occur do not take it so seriously? It would be difficult to project a total paralysing shock so diabolical that it would jolt the human race into action when so many films have already been made for each specific natural meteorological phenomenon. But there must be a way to do so. Everything Nature and the Elementals use as a counterpoint has already be sensationalised luridly –Who knows what to believe? People become jaded or indifferent. Sure, they may be emotionally susceptible, but a part of them will never reattach this perception to reality. This consciously accepts that it might impact upon them the creating of civil war that will destroy every achievement of ours… between those who are destitute and those who find benefits from globalisation’s desecration of life and ignoring of the planet. Another war is erupting or needs to –between eco-activists or those with a conscience and those who have none. We challenge those gifted with imagination to use their energy and creativity to horrify the world; if it is capable of being terrified…

Greed and the implications for the quality of life. How does it profit us, to irreversibly ruin our environment? Greed by definition is insatiable. Nothing is ever and can ever be considered enough to satiate the eternal appetites or a carnal, self-interested; narcisstic species -humanity. And yet other species have been taught by Nature to not be so grasping; ravenous and rapacious. Other species know what they want from the environment and know how to not impose unnatural violations against the basis of order They desire not to take without replenishing and without appreciation; seeking to invert the same natural laws; limits and Equilibrium that has enabled every species to co-exist and survive harmoniously on this planet; since an external asteroid last instigated a

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typhoon of extinctions. Yet; do we learn from this example? What could be wrong in living with our resources and limits?

It is merely a manner of common sense. Act now before it is too late and we might survive –retain at least a fraction of everything under threat. Saving the planet is obvious why it needs to happen to most. However; for those that don’t; they could be persuaded of the value by introducing mandatory ecological literacy modules at university and subjects at schools. Again; perhaps many urban/slum inhabitants don’t appreciate the value of the environment as something; they could personally benefit from. They might view it as the privilege awarded to the rich, who can afford this indulgence. This needs to change! One way of doing so would be to promote/sponsor children to spend a few days communing with nature on wilderness expeditions to local preserves; as Boy Scouts/Girl Guides in the world and private school children in South Africa do, by following Dr Ian Player’s vision. There is nothing like being outdoors and the challenge of it/being connected to your country; under those conditions, unpressured to make you really appreciate it. They could introduce appropriate environmental conserving penalties –i.e. litter patrol -and spot fining those who violate the environment and replanting efforts to those at school who show their disdain and ingratitude to the conservation movement by littering/defoliage etc. Schools could introduce recycling drives with the facilities provided as well. They could promote environment as a base for art and introduce people at an early age that conservation is not incompatible with having fun. Exercise in fresher terrain is better; products can be organic –it is cheaper and creates lower emissions. This includes to be aware of environmental legislation and rights- to mobilise as a community to resist incursions and intrusions by polluters.

Conscience/ Empathy. Anyone who has ever had a pet/animal companion; anyone who ever appreciates the benefits and welfare that one has from will surely be able to affirm just how much these species are worth saving and how much we rely upon them. Anyone who has ever identified or sympathised with another species in observation and who has lived and bonded with them will realise the potentia; for a kindred spirit. Many exhibit signs of intelligence; emotions; the capacity to sense pleasure and pain; to teach us; memory; devotion and other traits, that seem far more frequent than those we encounter within humanity. Anyone who believes against animal experimenting/ biology dissections/ organic not battery agriculture or appreciated/valued another species/ another part of nature than that fabricated/ involving humanity will realise why there can be nothing worthier than to espouse to a world; philosophy and method to conserve and defend them. There can be fewer nobler, more valiant causes to aid in rejecting the anti-speciest; the preservationist armada of opponents. We are not just making this effort on behalf of ourselves. Even if there are no humans to be concerned about; why take it out on innocents of other species; who certainly did nothing to contribute to this? We are doing it 156

for each and every species that depends upon us. For in seeking to use them to aid humanity (without compensation and often without compassion, we preserve it within. It is better to do something and be blamed/ shouted/ harassed about it (especially with regard to following your own instincts of empathy towards other species, then to do nothing and act as a traitor to oneself and to one’s innermost beliefs (as so many do so often). To participate in history, to be known for something, isn’t that more rewarding and a point to life; that we seldom think about? And yet each of us could be remembered for the ways we treated not just our species but also for the way which we left our world (It is easier to treat those well out of self-interest or of the same species/paradigm).

If people really fundamentally cared; then they would be protesting reform. They would be taking to the streets and campaigning against those authorities that do not. Their mere complicity for the most part; further affirms why environmental psychology motivating a changed perception towards our planet is so essential. This also includes animal experimental and testing being hypocritical to test it on innocents (For what did any of these species do to humanity; that they deserved to be treated so shoddily?) There are so many more humans that we could think of as a human species much more appropriate for medical research purposes. Consumerism and cosmetics/warfare); is even less justifiable as the other arguments commonly espoused; as motivating the disinterest and lack of support (anti-environmental motivation. With all this choice already at the expense of other species; do we really need ever increasing amount of consumerist junk –especially when so many are dissatisfied with their current allocation?) As for warfare, there is even less point; given several historical millennia of having already designed ever more sophisticated mechanisms for not only destroying humans but for waging war against virtually every species. We have developed enough to sterilise our world, incinerate it many times over. Yet we cannot restore a tropical rainforest, bleached coral reef, melted iceberg and glacier, resurrect a canyon or an extinct species.

Why are environmentalists and other species liberationists regarded as so completely radical or inconceivable by the masses? After all; there is nothing inherently wrong with showing compassion for others for defending the weak or those who cannot always protect themselves; who enjoy no rights. Why are these activists and supporters considered such a dangerous threat by those in power and influence–including the media when all they are trying to do; is alert the world. They only publish the truth to expose ecological traitors so they are known for whom they are truly are –as enslavers? It is partially because they persist in believing; what so many refuse to –and yet need to; in the conceptual equality of all species… They believe our world has value. We have a choice to do something about every scenario and problem we find ourselves with. As people, we also have something worth fighting for and a purpose to live. Plus we offer an actual link to their environs, something many lack. Perhaps they somehow subconsciously realise this 157

lack and feel the need to retaliate against those that do have it? Humans die because they act in dissonance; not concord with their surroundings. Humans die because too many do not manage balance or know how to live with themselves or adapt and reside within their natural terrain with its boundaries. When they adopt the environmental cause and experience many of its virtues and peace; they will learn how to live in ecological harmony and at one with themselves; their community and terrestrial realm. Environmentalists will no longer be perceived as radicals or extremists. They will thrive in the majority, with the original ones admired for managing to attain what so many have lacked for centuries; throughout the planet.

Charisma and Popularity! One day not only will it be the “right” or virtuous choice, it will be the most popular of cause to defend the planet rather than contributing towards extracting and exploiting its resources. More and more celebrities and public figures; are advertising this –such as film stars like Leonardo de Caprio, ever since the former Vice President Al Gore; produced the documentary: “An Inconvenient Truth!” In this globalised culture these celebrities and those who may have relinquished office but not their influence and charisma are adhered to. If the masses listen to these sources, we need to use them regardless of whether we, ourselves are convinced of the degree of their sincerity and commitment to the uprising. So many humans respond to these because they are highly ductile to the actions of others as followers, ever since religion’s origins.

The question many will be wondering is: “What has this got to do with me?” How can I personally benefit from this? Won’t it just be another expensive inconvenience? There has to be an incentive to want to conserve. Otherwise all attempts are futile. We ought to think about how to be sensible, pragmatic and cost efficient. Only if we sufficiently all want something –i.e. the ethos of conservationism can we even make a decent attempt, let alone; achieve a solution to the impending ecological crisis. But is it not better to act now rather than later? We do have to consider the implications of overload. We also have to consider that most people view environmentalists as buzz kills. Nor does it help when they fail to coordinate their efforts and unite. Currently; most organisations are too busy fighting each other for publicity; press coverage and funding to be much use in the environmental cause as lobbyists. It also makes it harder for the public to take them seriously. Others might also wonder what is the point; if scarcely anyone else is bothering? It is worth everything. Do you want to be like everyone else? This is our planet and even if we alone make the effort; at least it will prove; that we deserve to live on this planet –perhaps even worthy of the title of steward, which is far more than most. At least we will be better than them –n virtue; character; empathy; ecological literacy; forethought; health; tenacity; courage; endurance and resilience. This is virtually everything that really matters...

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Many might be querying: “Surely, there are other more important things to be worrying about in this world? Why; all this commotion over the environment? However; we have to reply: What else could possibly matter more? We need to face reality. There is no way for us if we continue like this. Empirical evidence is everywhere to support the actuality of climate change and global warming. The only way has to be the enviro–way! We need to make an impression that will resonate through the ages. We must expose the horrors of a world failing to keep up with our cupidity and our population explosion; not keep burying the atrocious memories. We must shame the world so as to not let them turn away. For –whoever we are; whatever we have done or failed to do, we are all in this together... Only by seizing attention by being provocative –by prompting debate; activity; awareness and protests can we jolt the collective will to go on and care. We need to accept that we are faced with this. It is not enough merely to make cosmetic changes, we must embrace the zeal of reform and a true revolution. Even if the sacrifice is high, the opportunity cost is far higher.

This treatise seeks to endorse anything that may work! Unlike others, our movement and this treatise; seeks to publicise any and every possible achievement averting our collective destiny of extinction as a species; as a planet. There can be nothing more important or sacred then this; no matter what anyone else might otherwise claim and refute. We should harness the potential ideas of any citizen who is motivated to reform our world –environmentally. And they should be listened it; with every manner of practical support... We are all in this together, whether we like it or not. It is not just up to scientists and corporations, the media; academics or the youth to find the answers and to come up with the will; dedication; energy and momentum to persevere. For once in our lives this has to be a global effect. There is nothing to suggest or prevent us in theory; to prevent us from this as an outcome which our global population can accept to avoid perishing.

Awards can be formed to conserve/anti-poaching and penalty fines from every animal found poached along with any awards devoted to conserving the environment; as activists; in business and industry; citizen and state initiatives; in education; agriculture and eco-tourism measures. This is something only endorsed by a handful of countries and sectors but so many more could choose to do. They could seek funding sources from the media; nongovernmental organisations; the public sector; the private sector; communities; the educational spectrum; individuals and others more than they currently do. Those who make the effort should be publicised and honoured for their contributions in the realm of conservation, just as in every area that currently receives funding; rewards; publicity; scholarships and attention. If the community also gains from eco-tourism; more and more; they can be relied upon for support. The constituents and customers can to motivate governments; that there is greater growth and welfare potential in defending their natural heritage birthright; then from piles of industrial white elephants based on 159

cyclical irregularities. If people see even a fraction of what can be done that can occur, they will feel inspired to dream of new efforts and get involved, even where funding and other direct incentives do not exist. It doesn’t matter as long as they want to do something to help, seeing a point; purpose and direction to give substance to their lives and hope to their futures.

This treatise demonstrates various ways to motivate the masses primarily economic/ health/ compassion and self-interest. The greater challenge will be to convince those in positions of power/wealth and those radical yet influential anti-environmentalists to shame/charm/compel them into doing something for their planet. Or face being overthrown by those who actually empathise with Terra. As stated; if you are one of these; it is necessary to act for so many reasons but primarily because of the consequences of the Tsunami of Discontent; (By which I refer not just to the meteorological and climatological consequences of the Century of Storms –the twenty first century of the Common Era). These ignore the environmental catastrophes and war of extermination and terraforming perpetrated by humans toward all others on this planet and Earth herself; but to the effects of humans themselves on each other, especially the poor, for which we –individually and collectively; have to consider and pay for.

Urgency! Spontaneity! Immediacy! These are the instantaneous forces which any attempt to inspire the human species and their abysmally short retention span. The planet must be continuously in our mind and be a part of our faith along with our daily lives. After all; what else is there? What else could possibly matter so much as this? As we humans have such a short attention span… we need constant reminders of the Human Impact. If this is the only way it can matter to people in their daily lives; then perhaps it has to be the epicentre of attention; without diversions; with frequent attention devoted to it. These problems will not go away. All other problems are insignificant in comparison to this. Perhaps it is disheartening to only hear the failures and to feel that we alone can do nothing. But there have been triumphs. There are individual steps that we can choose. For we alone can master our fate and our actions over something. Each of us unless mentally/ physically incapacitated; regardless of anything else –has the potential to do something for the world; for other living denizens and the biome we coinhabit. In doing so; we have the further advantage of being fully able to help themselves. We need reassurance via publicising of the successes that defeat is not the only recourse left… We can act to save our planet, provided we actually care for it, given the failure of our actions so far…

Psychologically; the environmental movement lacks glamour and charisma. Conservation is not always seen as the most popularist of causes, lacking champions and symbols with whom the public and rally behind and identify. Try finding political; business; media; culture; academic or celebrities; who not only endorse such with words but are willing to

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prove their intentions with direct physical action. Unfortunately, too; for the sake of the planet; most espousers of the environment are considered to be on the fringe lacking popular support. The people seldom go for those advocating an approach that radically differs from their own unless sufficiently provoked in the absence of other; more cautious and measured solutions. There is only a willingness after all to go so far

but no further. If nothing other than for the simple reason that all of the costs incurred in defending the status quo; in globalisation: of technology, materialism, the economy, politics, education, society, government, religion, philosophy, psychology, culture and other factors that need reforming to favour the environment are not worth the price we pay for. This is especially when compared to that of investing in reform.

The environmental movements however often retain little awareness that their current approach isn’t working. At the most they will only convert a few people in adopting such meaningless gestures that fail to arouse and motivate people, despite the ultimate righteousness; justification and necessity of their cause. They are only detracting those whom could be potentially supporting them. Individuals; investors; governments; the media and the community are dissuaded through their potentially disruptive antics that fail to consider the realities of the world. While many people may nominally agree with them in principle; it takes far more consideration and toil; to persuade them to risk and gamble everything; to work against the status quo. It is challenging to inverse everything they believe in; without compromising or adjusting to circumstances. It is condescending not to listen but to preach. This includes not only describing the problems and able to devise and implement solutions above the current age of globalisation’s miswrought attempts. This cardinal flaw of many environmental movements; includes their hostility towards considering gradual changes and compromises. They could try working with governments and industry. Nor do they address it from the perspective of self-interest; which is the only way to make governments and organisations honour pledges of “corporate social responsibility.” Additionally; most of the time all these eco-protest groups and individuals spend fighting each other, rather than actually forming a global environmental coalition. Only by concrete action and a coordinated response; can those who ardently quest to preserve their world stand a chance, especially against those who oppose environmental reforms. Many are far more prepared; united; resourced and financed, who retain far more influence.

We have to avoid overload. Some might find that this is too much… Hence it is better to establish the small step reforms that most people can feel are making a notable difference. They can be encouraged to think about it; to participate rather than just passively accept it. They can reflect to find how not only is it relevant to them and their lives; but how it would not destroy anything they believe in. This may work in a world

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that according to Toffler suffers from a deluge of information and issues clamouring for our attention, with so many issues, challenges and politics. This is not to mention our own lives. The primacy and consistency of our approach is long-term in the solution but requiring short-term constant attention and intervention to resolve the infinite scale of environmental issues that need resolving. This means more than just ‘global warming, climate change or renewable energy as the world’s focus, when it can be bothered. Some may seek dynamic activism. But no one likes to be coerced into doing something; -pressurised into donating time, money, energy and resources by somebody else, when it should be up to them to determine this. This treatise does not seek to specify and arrogantly dictate to you the only solutions, steps forwards, causes to espouses, thoughts and prescripts to consider; means to allocate expenditure earned by you. It is willing and desirous for us as humans; individually and as a society to do something –indeed anything to conserve the planet. It is open to anything that might resolve all of our environmental issues; reverse speciesism; global warming; the problems of globalisation; secularism; consumer materialism and other pestilences to resolve. It realises that there are always others; even once we have managed to vanquish those but without our planet’s ecological equilibrium and climateproofed against future disruption, the other problems will be the least of our concerns. The choice is up to us. Each and every one must decide what part we want to play in formulating a new Gaia Approach and Ecological Age to replace the fragmenting; fading world of life, plagues and other sorrows that we find ourselves in.

As humans there are certain factors that Hollywood and the most gifted leaders and purveyors of propaganda have mastered to continue being economically; politically and otherwise viable that any eco–activist needs to consider to motivate humanity: To do so they need to emphasize the lurid; the sordid and the sensational! As humans we have always responded to that which provides entertainment and distraction from the mundane, the strife laden or miserable parts of our lives. This is especially when it’s pace accelerates; galloping with impetus and full momentum! The world has a short-term attention span. So the impact has to be immediate; urgent and with dire consequences that are obvious. The environment is no exception to this. Humanity pays attention to Hollywood (for better or for worse). It just needs to have the full ecological truth broadcast to it, especially by those it looks up to… Politicians are not necessarily the ones respected enough to be the spokespeople for this. Any eco-movement should provide a platform for those voices of popular culture; the media; in education and influential in society to speak on the behalf of this conservation cause. The more allies; the greater the probability that more will actually listen.

The global world also cringes against perceived buzz-kills. No one ever welcomed Cassandra or the Cumae Sibyl or the Fates, even when they came with the message of truth and accurate foreshadowing’s, -especially when this happened… That is why so 162

many environmental movements never make an impact. Many remain constrained to the few. They are too impotent to rally the masses, who fear that all they preach is doom, which threatens their interests personally until they are truly desperate. Having this factor to contend with makes any reform even more challenging. We have to be persuaded of the value of Gaia of her benefits and blessings. This entails following the Way of Gaia; small reforms; active Community Eco Watches and other direct means of participation to stimulate and encourage such hopes and interest. It necessitates counteracting the sense of apathy or haplessness many face when confronted with such problems. We want people to feel dynamic; interactive; willing; enthusiastic and galvanised to be spontaneous and to act. We wish for them to feel that they ought to act. They need to believe that whatever they actually think or do if in favour of the environment and in a New Order; a fresh start and a brilliant Eco Age can matter to all; not just that of globalisation. They cringe against buzz-kills. But by stirring interest; relevance and dynamic activism using social media; active events; the charismatic and people themselves, this won’t kill the buzz –it will stir it. However; if we emphasise positive contributions where people have made a difference encouraging proactivity and lethargy, not just the pessimistic accounts portrayed so graphically within the media; then some people might feel inspired to ensure a continuation and preservation of that where we as humans have made progress; even if they are unable; incapable or unwilling to do so.

What is that American aphorism? “If you’re not part of the solution; you’re part of the problem...”

How many lessons will it take? Why would any sane person continue to bless the way the world is currently run and the ways the environment/other species are currently treated? Why would anyone continue to embrace the polluting ways of globalisation and material culture; if alternatives are feasibly; reasonably and cost effective/efficiently possible? Then; why not do something about it? Action and reaction: the principles upon which the mind and the body refract. We cannot afford to be passive! We have been far too passive as a species for aeons for our environment –and that has only retarded us and stagnated our abilities. If we react only to the deteriorating conditions that our planet presents to us, when it is too late; our response will not suffice to avert the extinction of life. We need to act decisively (not just formulate policies but actually do something). If people argue they can’t be bothered then they are effectively arguing that they cannot be bothered to save themselves. In which case; why should we? Why should the Olympians and Gaia bother either? Even a weak effort is better than no effort at all, which is what most people seem to be doing.

The challenge for any ardent guardian and conservator of our natural heritage; is to use psychological warfare to persuade humanity; of the opportunity cost and the perils of

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ignoring the planet. At the moment the environment does not appear to be understood to the degree that people need or are willing to save it. To our critics, who harp on about the costs. Yes; like most good things we appreciate there is a cost and a price to pay. But the cost of postponing action until a crisis threatens us and then having to fix it, is far greater! Take the example of an oil spill. Is it cheaper to ensure environmental standards are placed in tanker construction and in waste disposal? Or to clean up the oil spill such as BP recently or the Exxon Valdez oil tanker spill in Alaska in 1987? The same could be argued in rehabilitating any living species –plant or animal or terrain; so that our destruction doesn’t deny the capacity of our planet for the future. It is never cost efficacious; technically feasible and productive to retain the older; more polluting ways in the long run –compared to the short run. Yet; our movement; as outlined in Dune will be one which spans the aeons.... It may be the first decisively multi-generational vision in history, especially linked to the necessity of concentration on chartering and settling the galaxy and Universe. If as humans we are to make sense of this planet; if we wish to spare the birthplace of humans and other species; a Great Convention/ Charter needs to preserve those conditions and rights. Are you tired of having ideas and being suffocated? Are you tired of having energy and being repressed? Do you desire to make your dreams an actual –ultimate reality-or not but find yourself stopped far too often?

To those marginalised –who felt that this planet deserves respect and responsibility, to which we have failed over several thousand years or more...

To those who realise the hubris of the common course and the fates ordained by those climate sceptics and critics...

To those who believed that –other animals had a soul, who were worth saving and were worth something...

To those of all species that have yet to benefit from humanity….

If a philosophy of life finds itself to be far too passive, why not construct your own? There is nothing to stop each and every one of us from achieving what we desire. All we have to do is decide what do we want from life, from ourselves, from others, from the planet and its environment and how best can we achieve this? Do we have to create our own movement or can we operate within the existing world order? What is to Be Done? The current environmentalist movement is too passive. No wonder it lacks continual; dynamic support from so many. People desire action –whether as voyeurs or as participants… However; if there is anyone with even a spark; then I would like to reassure them that they are not alone. I would be willing to communicate with them. I am open to exchange ideas and provide ways of making them a reality, uniting movements; societies; organisations and individuals willing to reform and to improve the world we find ourselves in for whom 164

worlds are not –and will never be; enough!... Let us be prepared to make a new Age. If we even do one thing to avert our species decline. If we save even one species from extinction (though not at the expense of the others), we will have achieved far more than any of the so-called leaders of the past who could have done something but just uttered another meaningless speech. Ours might be the first generation to actually do something not only for ourselves but for other species and our oblate spheroid as novel and seemingly heretical as that might appear to most humans... For to be cursed – destined to exist... floating through the void and charred ashes of Earth. slowly drifting towards that dawning precipice, this is unappealing. To remain in a world where there is nothing dynamic and no approach, will or desire to do anything except prop up the whole putrid and decomposing; disintegrating system... that is not a fate I would wish for my planet; for my species and especially for myself. I would like the world to solve its ways –after it awakens itself up. The Old Ways will not solve anything, they will only worsen our fate.

The fact is: WE NEED A REAL ECOLOGICAL REVOLUTION! We do not want to have any regrets! Nor do we want to delay what one day we will have to do! We have to reform –before it is too late. Ecological awareness doesn’t automatically translate into eco –action... A gradual solution is too time-consuming to be efficacious. We need a more urgent pace. The world will not heal on its own as long as we continue to make it worse… How many are actually prepared to sacrifice? Of those that all; what exactly are the sacrifices necessary and why can our governments not clarify this? Where are the answers of our government to this, the most imminent and urgent of all? How do they intend to save us? Ah but what was that? Oh, they haven’t one... Even Kyoto hasn’t been signed by the biggest polluter of them all –the USA... and is set to expire soon. Nor is the Paris Agreement and a number of principles actually creating measurable indicators of change. COP 17 held in Durban South Africa this year (2013 CE) and others; committed the G20 powers –those who hold the fate of the planet –its major economic and political powers –and its main polluters. Self-congratulations are therefore premature. Speeches are not enough, we need concrete action! We need to pry and probe every single figure that claims to represent our interests academically; politically; in culture; in society and as consumers; individuals; or followers of whichever beliefs we have. “What have they done on behalf of the environment? What have they done to make any difference?”

In the meantime, we could do so much more to encourage those who are rallying around the cause. We could join those who are not only working to save other species and the planets, they are working to save us, all of us. There is nothing to stop us from making more environmentally conscious decisions and occasionally considering the welfare of another species, not just our own. Why not rise to the challenge and the adventure, to prove that we are capable of it? Join a protest and see a sense of life that our repressed communities so often deny. We could join environmental groups. It doesn’t take much 165

effort. Neighbourhoods and communities could establish Eco Community Watches as I specifically created. I petitioned the local municipality where I lived to publicise the details of those who were responsible for environmental and social justice/law enforcement change. This is what the community could docontacting the media to create a regular column, followed by interacting with anyone in the community –neighbours; peers and others to bring about environmental grievances; ideas for improvement and change or criticism and active community reporting of environmental crimes. (The idea works for social and government problems). This aids the municipality to lower enforcement costs; gain revenue and publicity; improve the environment and ensure justice. We gain change; active involvement and the power including police support/ a “citizen’s arrest”. In this case it benefited the community; the municipality and media (who gain a story).

The fact is although we try to escape reality with the virtual world, -even the virtual world requires resources to sustain it. The electronic weave of technology cannot enable us to escape either. The fact is we cannot avoid other species disappearing, suffering or being necessary. We cannot avoid the mess of the world that we have made. The sooner we accept reality, the sooner we can fix it to the degree capable of responsibly immersing ourselves in these electronic mediums, trivia, work, sport, recreation, vices, materialism and other distractions. To those who prize this; can we not afford to root ourselves in reality? This is especially when it is so essential to ensuring that we have the lifestyles (for those of us blessed with the security of certain income levels). The ecosystem remains imperative in being able to provide the quantity and variety of a subsistence level for those economically destitute/ on marginal poverty thresholds?

The question is why not seek to change this?

In changing we really wouldn’t have to suffer too much in the transition as long as we are prepared to concretely do something immediately to commit. Only by demanding transparency, accountability, determination, effort and action from our leadership; as consumer patrons; as workers; employers; individuals; as a community; family; society –united; can we ensure change. Time is running out! In fact; the unpalatable truth is simple! Unless we all start very soon, everything that we knew about life, the human race, our natural world and global civilisations will be gone… Do we really want this? Is it not the best option –the only sensible proposition, to do as much as we can now… while we can? This is before it is too late… to transform our race… into one that ranks the planet first. It is essential to ensure we retain as much as possible. The more we delay, the more we lose. The more arduous the adjustment becomes…

In exercising self-restraint where we have the potential to reduce our impact on the biosphere which shields us from the Universe and enables Life; not only do we enable its

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continuation; its resilience and its strength; we prove that we are better than so many others. Many as degenerates are nothing more than parasites taking but never compensating or giving in return. There is nothing more pathetic than those so are so addicted to a vice –any vice that surrender their control; free will and humanity. Do we really want that? By vice I refer to an addiction to something in excess; which one cannot live without nor contemplate a change in behaviour/attitude towards. It is something which one is enslaved. Traditionally this is nicotine and other narcotic drugs; alcohol; gambling, pornography, materialism, food, violence, noise (the vocal enhancement syndrome); money etc… But I would extend anything which embodies the old polluting; inefficient ways –fossil fuels and oil, non-recycled products, fast food, battery farming; cheap, poor quality imports; technology; global culture; large sizes; excess packaging; excess items etc. After all; it is not as if we can find anything redeeming in these anti-planet, anti-life ways? Vices contribute little to the cause of the planet’s survival. They work against it. It is possible, in fact healthier and better by most subjective and objective indicators –financial, environmental, social, efficient or otherwise; to choose alternatives. Pollutants also have no redeeming features and aren’t even necessary. If we evaluated the products, methods, systems, technology, architecture, cities; agriculture; industry; commerce and all else; it probably would grant us greater opportunities for efficiency; productivity and equity. Among other benefits this demonstrates our capacity for self-control and a willingness to do something for the planet, out of concern for our actions –and the implications for our world.

Is there one thing that our current leadership doing to conserve the long-scale, world environment? Is there one thing they are doing to prove they value it? (Given reality –that would be one thing more than most politicians ever achieve). Or are they even concerned? Most of their policies and actions would proclaim otherwise. Meaningless Summits do not count. We can deduce hypocrites in leadership and personally by observing them not just in the work they do but personally: “How do they live? Is it ecological and sustainable?” Until they can verify physically; their concern for our environment in actions rather than mere verbiage; it would be best to be quizzical and sceptical of anyone, especially those who seek to guide our world; of their intentions... Until they can name one single concrete thing that they have done to represent our interests or the welfare of the planet; until they can point to one thing that they have personally done to make things better for other people, why on Earth should we believe and listen to them? Why adhere to them? Anyone who seems to try for any real reforms when they actually have a probability of progressing. For example, Christine Whitman of the US Environmental Protection Agency is usually hounded out of their job; deployed elsewhere or bribed to join the private sector often of the very people they were seeking to prosecute.

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Like most revolutions someone has to pay the price of cupidity and culpability. For us; it ought to be those of the old global imperialist order who saw this coming or failed to; but nevertheless, could have done something. In fact, they still owe their constituents –and could still do something. It is not too late. We need decisiveness and willpower more than just another round of incessant conferences, seminars, symposiums, books, documentaries and other forms of publicity and education. Ironically these enhance–rather than resolve the environmental catastrophe; by emitting nasal gaseous waffle and in consuming scarce resources. This is particularly from the carbon emitted from jetting off to international summits; without a corresponding offshoot carbon reduction effect elsewhere and with no real decisions). If it were effectively working; then the World Meteorological Organisation, would not be listing the 1990’s and 2000 -2009 decades; as two of the warmest decades since records began. An approach that interacts directly with people as suggested here. We need far more to see what we can all do. And more significantly, what are we willing to do; to create the plans for our future. This can be the only answer; amid the failures of so many previous attempts.

However; this section concludes with a warning. To prompt humanity to save the world it is in when it has done the opposite for aeons, may be the most formidable challenge ever to be attempted in the history of our species. The psychological effort alone represents the ultimate Leviathan. This is given how most of humanity has become conditioned; thorough globalisation; monotheism and others; to treat the ecosystem and resources as infinite and disposable rather than finite. Humans have been indoctrinated to consider himself –or herself; the only species that matters, inherently superior to others; to have the crime of hubris; to prefer destruction and warfare; to peace; symbiosis and creation. At the moment they will persist in such myths and follies; even as the natural order crumbles into chaos Will humans ever care despite all the information and warnings; what is to become of them and others? Will they ever do anything about this tragic, preventable fate? Or will they wait, persisting to the end on this course? So, any other species that encounters our desiccated husk of a world; and the charred ashes and brittle cadavers of our remnants; can marvel at our ultimate at of folly and terminally fatal stupidity in turning from Elysium into the Ghost of Paradise?

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Chapter 14: Ecological Economics:

“Buy land, they’re not making it anymore...”

-Mark Twain (American Humourist).

“Economics has enthroned some of our most unattractive predispositions: material acquisitiveness, competition, gluttony, pride, selfishness, short-sightedness, and just plain greed...”

Hazel Henderson, Creating Alternative Futures, 1978...

And yet; economics as a profession and a subject could be rescued from the above; well justified summation; if it would only commit to this planet. This treatise has already sought to dissolve the mirage: that more is not essentially better! This precept is applicable to economic growth and ecological economics. Ecological Economics implies a model of the economy that mirrors the organic. It is flexible; responsive to the planet –pricing and evaluating it accordingly in order to ensure its reflection in the amorphous and non-corporeal invisible hand, resource and price allocation mechanism. The answer to economic growth is to readapt the measures of GNP and GDP to consider eco impact and the quality of life. These are factors that should matter, not an abundance of material output. The solution for our collective species not to target economic growth as it is currently measured; but sustainable eco development. This is based on productive efficiency –goods, services, technology and methods are produced with the fewest possible resources. It means maximising output relative to input to conserve scarce resources and the costs of underutilisation for potential economies of scale. It targets allocative efficiency –the goods that are most wanted by consumers (to be ecological) are those produced, so that those manufactured are not so extravagantly wasted. This involves completely recalibrating globalisation’s material acquiring; obsessive lifestyle... so that demand better approximates supply. Then over–choice does not cause us to pay –by losing ecological biodiversity. Besides; the old barometers of progress are clearly not working. There is no point in just repeating the same consumption patterns again and again and just for a change of pace: AGAIN!

As one who has graduated in economics; the flaws in this area are even more obvious and perceptible. There are so many factors that conventional economic models habitually ignore –i.e. the environment. For example; in generally speaking of externalities and opportunity costs; seldom reflects the true environmental scope. Economics has to be

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made relevant. It can only do so by interlinking with the environment to avert the crisis. However; this is complicated by the fact that for the last few centuries; which economics has been considered as a separate discipline; there has been no truly formal economics model which has truly conceptualised and incorporated the environment. And yet if economics does not consider the constraints imposed by the environment; its need for equilibrium and efficiency; its embodiment of scarcity and opportunity cost; then we cannot reach our potential as a species; given our excess population. This is problematic until we maximise efficiency or start to colonise space. The planet itself and most of its sectors lack an economics prescribed performance and efficient appraisal; environmental impact analysis or cost benefit analysis worthy of the mention and economic issues. Such fail to prioritise or factor the planet’s incapacity to keep up with human greed and the need to ecologically rehabilitate. This is something Gaia and the Olympians have long worked out but we as humans; for all our professed brilliance have not! The total costs of ownership and the pricing mechanism ignore the lack of environmental sustainability in growth models. They exclude direct and indirect costs in supply/ demand/ prices –whilst also failing to distinguish between short; medium and long-term impacts; all of which are essential in any forecasting projections concerning the human economy. This human economy is also presumptuous enough to ignore the impact of species affected by human activities, especially as they themselves are particularly likely to be affected.

The currently adopted universal philosophies of economics that predominate; just seem like such senseless waste, splurging for the sense of convenience, but with little of substance to justify why we pillage so recklessly. How lethargic and such an opportunity cost to the world; anyone objective enough could consider many of our undertakings to be towards this globe of ours. We offer little sense of value or appreciation of the scarcity value entailed. Even those who profess to believe in such can often be coaxed into betraying them, when pressured by money, blackmail, peer pressure or any number of excuses. Profit rules principles. For a sufficient price people will sell their estates; farms; golf courses, nature conservancies or grass strip airfields to giant corporations to build industrial warehouses or factories. As sugar cane cultivation is considered far less valuable than industry, despite being better for the environment and for humanity, even without considering other species. Everything has a cost though. One day a Reckoning will dawn. People deserve to suffer the torment of their actions as the price for inflicting such on the world around them, especially those who did not cause these problems and even those who tried to stop them.

The price for industry when zoning and acquiring real estate; exceeds that of the environment. Yet purer environments, less tainted air and water sources, afforestation; and most species of animals and vegetation are becoming more and more rarer. Not everyone lives in a fairly open and natural setting, whose home city and country estate 170

were paralysed in stasis from any major projects Development. Even white elephant development is considered better than conserving open space to many. Yet open space is far rarer and more precious from the welfare of species. However; as with natural resources its true value is seldom recorded. The price equates to extraction costs –Externalities; loss of potential biodiversity/medical, research and commercial potential (to name a few) are not recorded. This will not stand! It will not be blithely allowed to continue in the New Epoch we propose to inaugurate.

The example of gas fracking in the Northern Cape in South Africa and the harbour expansion in Durban –examples of where economic growth in the Second World is normally viewed from the traditional First World examples. These are beneficial to crude gross output measures but ignore the externality costs. Development projects only focus on traditional extractive projects with conventional GDP and economic growth indicators ignoring the environment or the quality of life. They have swallowed the illusion that we actually have economic growth by subtracting resources from the planet instead of merely deferring the cost. Economics needs to recognise that a holistic approach which factors in ecological literacy; cannot only lead to poverty eradication; but also tax revenue; employment and economic growth more efficiently. It thrives over a longer time spectrum than industrialisation processes normally consider. The environmental movement rather than merely encompassing compassion; altruism and consciousness; needs to reflect self-interest. This includes the profit incentive in commerce and economics; to reflect scarcity and the opportunity cost. Perhaps then they could be reconciled.

Risk is essential for our species to avoid stagnation. Our species and those of others need competition -and an environment capable of training/ ensuring our survival. It may appear risky to choose to found an economy based on the environment. But ultimately; it will be far more sustainable. So many countries are conditional upon extorting so few resources. Yet; surely this gamble is far riskier; than investing in the environment? The obvious question remains unanswered, or even unasked by most practitioners of economics and devotees of conventional business patterns is: What to do, when the resources run out and the Dutch Disease is over from Angola to Benin to Equatorial Guinea. The example of the guano of Nauru proves the fatality of this dependence. The only way; is to create a Fund; as Nauru and Norway have attempted; to place some of the profits in alternative savings and investments. This is so that they can rely upon future dividends from current surpluses. These resources would be better devoted to environmental restoration measures; to offset the consequences of mutilating their environment. If we prepare, we will endure better than those who do not. It is simple common and business sense…

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Everything has its opportunity cost. That is what the Universe instructs us. We cannot always do what we like. Every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Every action has a consequence, that much is basic to any real understanding of environmental economics... Nature may have nominally given us these resources for free. But what are the true costs? Like most “free” resources; we do not appreciate these gifts. For it is only when we have toiled for something and paid for it; do we really appreciate it. This includes the sphere we inhabit too. Equally; only when we have gained something including our world; with our own efforts, rather than just being presented with it –and come close to misplacing/losing it; do we value it. Yet we cannot afford to wait until our planet is lost to us. When speaking of the costs of reform, (we do not deny there will be costs), we know that these costs are essential to our future. Now we have to pay the bill for aeons of successive humans binging on the planet –living only on credit.

Reform has to be cheaper than clearing the costs of pollution in the future and enduring its effects now. Clean energy has to be cheaper than the polluting alternative, especially when you factor in the value of a clean environment on the economy/health and welfare. Another thing not considered is the cost of replacing ageing electricity infrastructure and power stations and the escalating cost to consumers. Consider the example of the South African electricity parastatal Eskom. Eskom will require a projected R800 billion over five years to build several additional (coal fired) power stations. Now renewable may have some costs –but at least they will be once off; and not require such extensive maintenance. It is the same all over the world. Let our critics try to denounce this.

When considering these costs; we know that these will be less than the costs of continuing the polluting transgressions that our opponents would naively believe was a realistic alternative. Additionally; when evaluating these costs, they are easily outweighed by the costs of doing nothing. How much do our opponent’s value clean water? How much do our adversaries those traitors to the planet and the Elementals themselves value their birthright? How much do they treasure the right to live; to exist and to continuously survive on the only certain and certified world that they have ever known? Oh good; then they don’t mind being resettled to the tainted environment; air; oceans; garbage; high polluting; contamination, radioactive/charred/desert wastes. That leaves more valuable and purer resources/environments for the rest of us, given that we care more than they do We at least realise that change inevitable or evitable is not only pragmatic and realistic; it is desirable and overwhelmingly necessary. Clearly their valuation is in the negative –based on their previous history. If it was sincere; they not only would be not denying it or hindering the efforts of those pledged to avert it as much as possible. They would not evade. They would join us and be doing something about it without coercion.

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Nature thrives on balance on sustainability. Disturbing that balance, disturbs the natural flow... with first; second and third degree complications. The price of natural resources should reflect this interdependence and flow. The price should reflect their finite nature and time status. Of course, maybe they will only start to recalibrate products to include these when it’s too late –and we have virtually run out. Solutions do exist even to scarce wild resources. Organic; sustainable fisheries are one. I.e. start with fish farms for all commercial forms of fish to allow fish everywhere the chance to recuperate from the salmon in Canada and Alaska to the cod in Newfoundland and the North Sea. Revitalising forests and agriculture empower us to continue our lifestyles at a reasonable rate of consumption and quality are compatible with existing methods and technologies. These are simple; potent and cost effective, as are most environmental technologies and ideas that could save us. So; why not?

All economics and the so-called free markets need to factor in the true cost of ownership and the opportunity cost as previously stated. Once a country restructures its economy to focus on organic agriculture; recyclable products and biotechnology, it can make money exporting its wares to other countries -who have foolishly, not invested in their futures. This particularly includes the USA and BRIC countries; who prefer impressive current growth rates and future decades of negative growth to a more balanced; harmonious economic development. In an era susceptible to the volatility of financial systems and economies; where costs matter more and more; it makes sense to specialise–to acquire a comparative advantage in eco-friendly solutions which other countries lack.

To quote one punter: “Nature does not perform bailouts”

We cannot continuously rely upon her infinite generosity, particularly when we have been so careless with what we have been given. Like a spoiled child we have not appreciated what we have been blessed with and continue to throw our tantrums. Not only have we treated the planet as if it was a personal possession, but like spoiled children throwing a tantrum; we have defoliated this planet; wrecking it. Its as if we expected to be given another one. Our record and expertise in de-linking the ecosystem and causing the extinction of millions of species naturally makes Gaia less forgiving towards us; having unmade what she took aeons to create. This is not to say; that Gaia is incapable of rectifying our mistakes. The planet still possesses the ability to heal itself. But only if we stop compounding and complicating the curing process. There has to be an incentive –i.e. that we actually regret what we have done –and will not seek to perpetuate the atrocities again; before Zeus, Apollo; Helios, Hades, Artemis, Selene, Chronus, Hades, the Fates, Furies, Dionysius and the others are willing to give us another chance.

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To agree with the quintessence of Thomas Friedman’s creed in: “The World is Hot; Flat and Crowded!” Gaia and the free market spirits have combined through recent recessions and climatic rifts erecting ever spiralling quagmire of chaos. Yet why should they care about their retaliation towards us, when we do not care about them? Perhaps; though the Recession is not all doom. Perhaps it can provide us with a chance to cast off the old flawed economic system. This forgot the values of some of the most precious commodities –that of biodiversity; sustainability and the capacity to conserve life, that no other planet we have ever envisioned or encountered has as a guarantee Perhaps; the recent Recession can provide the chance, the incentive and the opportunity to restructure –both more socially and more ecologically harmonious. Besides; more is not always essentially better. The happiest of nations and people do not always coincide with economic prosperity. Other factors particularly that of the quality of life/environment –matter even more than a rise in per capita income. Even the UN reflects it in its development indicator measures such as the Human Development Index and the Human Poverty Index...

An economy based on infinite cravings and wants; ignores this... –one not based on needs but on satiating gluttonous; ravishing palettes and globally jaded appetites. One concentrating on appeasing infinite wants cannot end and will be eternally doomed to fail. There is only so much that we as humans are prepared to tolerate. The number of demonstrations, protests, strikes and uprisings in this epoch of ever-expanding globalisation is proof enough of that. There is only so much one planet can provide of resources that took tens of thousands of natural years to germinate and species; that propagated numbers over aeons. Besides; those who cite economics –the expense and the opportunity cost of enacting an actual transformation; often seem to forget what economics is inherently about. Using the dictionary definition of economics; it concerns itself with the productive and allocative production, distribution and consumption of scarce resources according to who values them the most (What could be scarcer than the finite resources that Gaia endowed the planet with?) Based on these and other criteria; economics is most applicable to the sustainable management of the environment itself....

To a degree one recognises; sympathises and is in favour of consumer and of producer sovereignty. But this does not have to conflict with the fundamental priority of serving the planet before individual profit. Consume without respite and regeneration is foolish. All the windfalls and accumulated material wealth; electronic or on paper on the planet, is worth far less to a starving; smog choking individual than a single giant tree and well of pure; clean spring water. In the future; mineral water may become even more expensive then it is currently; because it will become increasingly rarer. It may be a rip-off as a staple of life; as less tainted springs vanish. Unless they are wealthy enough to design and afford to live on a new autarchic space colony, perhaps on some other planet; the wealth of the 174

supremely affluent; will not be enough to save them from the same fate –they imposed (directly or indirectly) on the rest of the world... Most troves of extracted accumulated wealth are contemptible; as it usually is based upon the planet’s (even if not at society’s) expense. This is given that a minuscule percentage of the affluent ever seem to atone for that which they have leeched out of the world without ensuring replanting/ replacements; wherever ecologically possible for every species and aspect affected. It is even more contemptible if others have had to pay the price –rather than those that ought to have paid; based on the user pays principle…

In order for us to develop and for living standards to progress as humans; surely we can support an emerald rather than a pustule based; smog encrusted; toxic ochre sludge embedded in a forever expanding cess pit of mordacious decay. It leeches the vitality and life preserving capacities of not just our species –but that of others. In order for living standards to rise, we do not need further induced materialism. Part of the problem is the historical model of progress measured in higher economic growth, as growth which is unsustainable. An economy may be growing today –but it is shrinking even more tomorrow. They measure it in the expansion of gross output rather than increased efficiency of existing resources; as we who favour environmental focused economics would advocate. The historical models of economics should be redrafted to reflect the fact that superfluous output without incorporating the environmental opportunity cost; is a liability rather than an asset to future growth. Higher output made from finite resources equates to higher pollutants –which equates to higher waste. This squandering of resources given the parlous state of the non-affluent/privileged participants (“Beneficiaries” of globalisation) and given the perilous state of our world’s environmental health... is not only obscene; it is indefensible! With better insight but mainly effort; empathy and concern; this planet could be a fit place not just for the narrow strata of humans currently raping it to satisfy materialist consumption. It could benefit the losers of globalisation –human, flora and other fauna...

This age is the “privatising of gains” and the “socialising of losses.” But it cannot continue interminably... Ultimately; it is we who have been passing on the price. But ultimately Gaia will make us all pay. Losses will exceed any ephemeral; temporary gains. If we contemplate just how much pollution has affected the world; how much it has ruined the lives of so many, when it is so easily reducible and the solutions so educable., we can soberingly realise in fact just how much we have lost compared to every so-called stride that we have made… How can the free market possibly be considered efficacious if it cannot place a monetary value on the economic social and environmental costs of pollution damage? How can it be so brilliant; if in the short and intermediate term; it doesn’t appear to pay to shield the environment? How can it ignore the human valuation

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of a clean environment and clean health; which only eco-literacy and compassion towards the environment; avoiding of speciesism and forethought can ensure?

An eco-economy can provide fiscal lessons that can change the world. However; orthodox economics focuses too much on trivial matters such as ownership of ecological resources. What matters is not ownership of assets but how they are managed and conserved, matters far more. Once policies are devised to discourage pollutants thoroughly; it will be the ultimate investment of eternity; constantly renewable; stable; inherently profitable; ethical; popularist; full of social benefits. It is politically acceptable; noncontroversial; cost efficient; productive, easy to publicise and quintessential. At the moment it is a combination of several factors which inhibits businesses from endorsing this “emerald” approach: First is the recent recession. But then what better way to prepare for the next boom? This will be in biotechnology and other planet conscious areas. With all the publicity, consumers will also protract this. Secondly; is the issue of policy uncertainty. Currently; any environmental policy that any international authority; global court or national governmental regulatory-legislative–executive authority implements... will be only reluctantly adopted by companies and individuals. Many stakeholders regardless of rhetoric; see it both as an expense and a government intrusion. Justifiably; they realise that compliance with any current regulation; often only results in subsequent further; more stringent regulation... However, if we design these regulations to be initially stringent but entail eventual profit and cost savings in the medium and long-term period… with deterrents and incentives; people may be willing to invest in pollution abatement equipment and methods up to a point…

What is one of the major problems of the environmental movement at present? Lack of recognition, appreciation and support from the masses; who fail to see its relevance –and how the eco-movement can personally affect and help them. What is one of the prime flaws that the old economic model of globalisation and anti-environmentalism incurred? A failure to provide sufficient jobs/employment –ensuring the accentuating wealth of some and the poverty of the majority. The green economy makes sense as a necessary source of future jobs and wealth redistribution through the multiplier effect. It will be more balanced based on replenishable eco-resources, rather than the vagaries of the stock market/ business cycle. There are far more prospects, even in surviving individually than there can be on encouraging increasing industrialisation. This just creates ever greater demand for ever scarcer resources, (which few have worked out –might actually need to be replaced –unlike precipitation of Poseidon; the wind of Aeolus; Helios and Selene). For many jobs will emerge from the reconstituted global economy based on the environment, as we deindustrialise the world and seek for it to support life not that of war and death. If we continue to pursue the old ways however; most people will continue to be outsourced

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to cheaper labour in the cheapest; most exploited parts of the Third World, primarily in Asia or from mechanisation.

Ignoring such essential issues in the hopes that others (including invisible market forces) will resolve it; does not make sense. Since when could we rely on others to solve the tragedy of the commons problem? Although others may benefit from the free rider problem, none of us can afford to ignore the problem, despite this we have to find a way to do something. They may benefit to some degree, given the nature of globalisation and the interconnectivity of all elements of the ecosystem. But those who choose ecological and environmental economics will be the first to benefit. And they will benefit the most –especially benefitting those partners. Besides; there are other tactics to prompt others to cooperate as any acolyte of psychology, game theory economics; politics; statecraft; commerce or international relations could relay. Such include only offering trade, aid and military alliances to strategically to those who also prioritise this reform, while penalising those with diplomatic, cultural, educational and other possibilities.

The models of environmental economics represent challenges sufficient to inspire a new generation of economists, if any are daring and audacious enough to grasp the potential! Economics has to conceptualise and encapsulate the two issues of climate change and sustainable environmental development if it is to be part of the new challenge. In a world of costs; efficiency and productivity as embodied in the environment matter even more. Economics has to involve in creating the 21st century that concerns itself with a quality of life; that only the most advanced countries –entering Rostow’s fifth stage of growth; have managed. Not to mention; it represents the absolute investment opportunity of the century and of a lifetime. Eternal –irrevocable –stable –predictable –balanced; efficacious and continuous. What could be wrong with an economy that ultimately delivers this on our planet; rather than the extractive; suicidal model we currently have? This is especially as any sane being or organisation has to realise this cannot continue. Even the public are becoming ever more conscious and certain elements more empathising.

Conventionally; economics has been defined as the allocation of scarce resources according to the value placed upon them by humans. With ecotourism in contrast to conventional growth, we create means of self-perpetuating economic growth. This is by conserving and maximising potential resources and the benefits associated with them. This improves even on conventional ecological economic model; rather than seeking to place a price and value on finite stockpiles, depleting them. If there were any benefits from elephant ivory tusk; rhino horns etc, would it not make sense to create game farms exclusively for that purpose. This creates a surfeit whilst protecting as many other species in natural preserves as possible. Surely; it makes economic sense to these poachers and consumers? It is far less risky for them too. If people concentrated on legal conservation

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and farming activities to breed an ecological resource surplus; rather than a deficit; then we would be able to provide more species with a chance to live. It helps to avert extinction/loss of biodiversity and provide continued resources. A host of marketable, healthier products could be offered as substitutes from the unhealthy battery farming practises of poultry, sheep and cattle I.e. a host of game products could be developed –especially in more suitable environments, like Namibian game farms improving developing countries. All one needs is ecological land with minimal capital etc… Nature is the best; cheapest cultivator. It is difficult to see who loses. Not the species themselves; who gain extended life capacity and welfare. Not humans as producers or consumers or the poor –who take risks in poaching. Many could be employed as rangers and game farm/ aquaculture workers. Nor do governments lose who can gain greater taxation revenue and devote less law enforcement efforts and resources to countering poaching/ overfishing/overexploiting activities…

In the end we will have to face the major culprits that create environmental degradation –the cults of materialism and Affluenza (as diagnosed by Oliver James). The prognosis for the environment is we need to enrol the media; academics; scientists; religion; NGO’s; communities and individuals. Whether out of spirituality; concern for the environment; for humanity or otherwise, many need to place the value of live and existence as ranking more prestigious and elevated than that of the art of pursuing stuff –for stuff’s sake. This serves to the detriment of welfare and the planet. Think of all the social problems, even crime, envy, contempt, ostracism and others that occurs from neglecting what is beneficial and benevolent for all species –especially our own, when deprived of a healthy environment. There are so many problems with materialism and the cult of blindly paying slavish homage to wealth ask practically any religion. However; no such problems exist if we were to choose the environmental alternative of quality over quantity. Does the environment make one feel inadequate; prompt stress; anxiety; a pathological craving or addiction; envious; tormented; incur harrowing pain; misery; despair; social ostracism etc? Does it provoke all the problems connected with seeking materialism in a globalised economy? Unlikely –not in its natural state. Why else do so many throughout history –have sought nature as beneficial not maleficent? If we can deprive people of the stresses of materialism, affluenza, vices, modern life and by demonstrating the brilliance and rejuvenation of a purified environment, more might appreciate it. If we seek to only terraform that which we have wrecked –to return it into the most omniscient of guardian forces –Gaia and the Elementals; we will not face the problems we experience. All of us will benefit; where only a few prosper at the moment…

Ecotourism is the way forward to make people value their environment. Let us do more local trips. Even walking around and discovering our city/countryside is a better way to enjoy it than artificially distancing ourselves from it; detached and oblivious to all things 178

other than the environment. Blinding ourselves to the miracles; marvels and phenomena that are out there is no way to appreciate it. Even in an age of tourism it is still possible to enjoy the experience of total immersion in the environment. If ecotourism is not prioritised and transformed into an asset. While we have these species. It may be impossible to do so in the future... For it will be –too late! One day these species may only be visible as exhibits in a park; zoo or aquarium. One day these species may become distant memories. A single blade of grass may be present in the halls of the museums –built to commemorate the dearth of global civilisation. We may resort to Yahoos; scrabbling to survive in the charred wastes. We may scurry among the glass display cases of dead specimens, holding the last dog or cat. The whole world lies open to those who have the sense to prepare for the shortage and increasing value of resources. They should horde theirs; plant reserves (timber/fish/food/species etc) of those replaceable. Islands and those who are vulnerable with their coasts, harbours; melting ice levels etc should be prepared to adjust, even where tourism is not such a concern. The world will be far poorer to behold and far grislier, without knowing it…

Think of all this Age of Globalisation is prompting us to sacrifice, most of it unconscious! Why do people have such little basic knowledge or understanding of the natural world? Let’s test it? How many local species of birds, insects, fish, reptiles, herbs; weeds; wild flowers; trees; tracks and spoor/dung can you and those who know recognise –in your own domestic environment –rural and urban? Can you describe the mechanisms of basic ecology? Are you aware of just what impact your actions have on the environment; the impact of pollution on your life and your planet? Do you know exactly: how; when; where and why global warming will affect the natural world? What about the human world? What will be the impact on your lives? What do you know and understand of other species; their concerns and behaviour?

Another major advantage that should appeal to most is the way that so many can benefit from employment in these eco-industries and biotechnology. Thus, a major source of opposition that they stagnate or reduce employment and economic growth; is refuted. These could be summarised in four words: clean energy jobs bill! There are many sustainable jobs that can be generated and sourced from this new economy; jobs that are durable; that can vary in degrees of skill and education; that are difficult to mechanise or outsource; that can be equally productive; remunerative and rewarding. These jobs are compatible and sustainable. This is in contrast to the limited potential of the planet to withstand industrialisation everywhere as the fulcrum of growth) –in markets where no one else has thought of them. They govern the considerable effort that will be required to ensure that the entire planet eventually manages to restructure itself on this ecologically sensitive form. These jobs cannot be outsourced or denied so easily because the traditional sources in Southeast Asia/India/China are even more polluting than most. A global effort; 179

would require them to employ labour to purify and cleanse their own environment. We could also refurbish existing infrastructure to comply with being natural world friendly as well as any further infrastructure that we impose on our planet (carbon zero and renewable energy powered). For example a single, simple wind turbine –directly and indirectly created approximately 8000 jobs in Denmark/ the United States.

It is not just a question of employment. Eco-economies –are far more impervious to recessions and economic cycle based on the environment. This is provided that we modify consumption and production patterns to favour renewable resources and energy usage –and we consider requiring adding sufficient reserves of these resources. We need to recycle and renew every resource before contemplating demolishing an existing one. Organic and game farming and aquaculture not only improve welfare but also consumer and producer sovereignty, for those that currently lack that choice. Operators have no vision of the market prospects and the commercial opportunities that exist Nor do many dwell on how eco reforms might benefit them personally as well. The economic benefits are obvious, even self-evident.

In addition there are those who are environmentally sensitive, even in developing countries; but lack the choice, products or information to consume this way. We would resolve the issue of asymmetrical information by allowing environmental organisations (where the agrarian and industrial sector fail) to provide documentaries to consumers. This allows them to discover the origins of their purchases and sufficient information to assess their consumption patterns; whilst preserving commercial manufacturing secrets; patents and intellectual property rights protection. This will empower them to exercise consumer sovereignty –so as to not claim ignorance. It prompts the commercial sector/ electricity companies; technology etc to find eco-friendly methods or face adverse publicity and other costs. Economically; we are all vulnerable. Consider the economy’s current dependency upon petroleum, lacking cost-effective substitutes in many places, whether in electricity, in transport, in food etc. Is this not the major vulnerable economic, social; military and geopolitical fulcrum and vulnerability of our Age? Diplomacy and politics focus all too much upon it, allowing dictatorships to flourish on petrodollars. Would it not make sense on so many levels, to commercially develop and replace all polluting sources requiring oil with hydrogen and solar cells; with renewable electrical energy; with steam/ magnetism, crystals or some form of practical effective power propulsion?

And yet we have had environmental economic successes, so why can we not simply extend upon those which have worked so well? Examples include Kyoto. For all its flaws at least, it sought to create a multiple country, unified framework to avert an ecological calamity. They include global bans of DDT pesticides from crops; the banning or surcharge pricing of plastic bags; catalytic converters and lead-free petroleum. If these are possible; why aren’t

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others? Most adversaries of the “Green Struggle” argue that such is impossible. It is impractical to reform the economic costs of doing so, are far too much for a world forever reeling from financial disasters, without seeing that this is the way to avoid such cyclical volatility. We can publicise these to our critics. After all; we’ve managed to survive without those polluting; expense; future sacrificing; inefficiencies and market failures so far, haven’t we? Do we really miss them? Would anyone propose we go back to them? Do Londoner’s miss their infamous pea soup smog fog that blighted the in the 1960’s? Once we have succeeded in any environmental policy and shown that it is completely reasonable and possible; we will continue to validate that the benefits. These span an indeterminably prolonged time duration, compared to instantaneous, marginal short-term private profits and benefits are worth so much more.

Energy poverty and not investing in eco-technology; research; commercial products and policies are the new challenges. Energy poverty affects every –and that means every: major achievement and feature, our species has devised. Energy poverty affects every level of development. It is one barrier to retard us. As humans most of us are dependent upon it, more than we could possibly know. We have two choices in a future where conservation will have to be the overarching objective! We can either prepare to say our farewells and cope as best we can to a low-level status of technology and scientific achievement. Or we can work to make every product produced; every technological/ medical wonder; every constructed edifice sustainable and energy conserving –powered by renewable energy. Certain people think that it is petty to turn off a light bulb now or leave an appliance on standby. Or drive when they could so easily utilise the limbs they were given for so many reasons. They never think how much they could save economically. They never think of the opportunity cost of wasting that energy, where it could be better converted elsewhere. It is the same with lethargy; in forestalling action and surrendering to forlorn despair. They never think: “Do we really need this product? Or am I just buying for the sake of buying –suffering the curse of affluenza?” But just wait until we regress and they have to do without everything but the bare essentials. For as humans consume more and more; the planet’s threshold for entropy and pollutant absorbing will not only regress and collapse but will escalate in disruption costs. And with it; our problems will potentially exponentiate!

So in the end; (an end far sooner than most think) the planet will have its revenge to all those who are ungrateful. To all those who value economics and materialism selfishly; who consider that the environment doesn’t matter, who are unmoved by the need for reform; for conservation; for change and a real Eco-Revolution relish now. To those who take but do not replenish; to those who blind themselves to harsh reality and shirk responsibility/the consequences of their own action or inaction, enjoy those consumption and materialist binges. Do so because they will disappear so very soon and you will be left 181

with absolutely nothing of worth at all. In the end; they will wish that they had listened and that they had done something. Materialist forms of economics are erudite enough to define it by the art of accumulating scarce resources. But they never think of a sufficiently high value. Or the obvious solution to economics is to ensure that you replenish resources/ focus on ecological efficiency sufficient to sustain not just the economies of the world but the quality of life for all dependent creatures, especially ours. Those who have alienated ourselves from the natural world and have raped resources without heeding the shortages of the future will undoubtedly pay. However; it is our profound misfortune and those others who innocently suffer; to incur their transgressions against the natural order of things, unless we do something to forestall it. In the end; we can warn them. We can try to persuade them. We can try to change them. But if they persist… we are all doomed!

If the planet is not valued for what it really is or for what it has, then it will never be valued by anyone at all. If nature is not priced then it is valueless. This invites exploitation, which intensifies the problem. It is the basis why so many do not bother to recycle, or extend usage or convert to renewable ways because the alternatives have been made artificially cheaper. More substantial shadow or hidden costs are passed onto other humans and species. Current indicators of economic progress would look quite different –but far more candid and relevant –if they were filtered to consider such factors including the quality of life; environmental sustainability, deterioration, biodiversity loss and other more eco-linked factors. Then the world would see; who is progressing and who is regressing in terms of planning for the future. Those who waste the most now/surfeit populations and growth will be the ones more consigned to future doom. Those with the highest current growth rates at the expense of their endowments from Gaia and non-human species are equally challenged. The world might wake up to the fact that it is the environment and the percentage that is left; that affects what we can do in the present –and what we will be able to do in the future. By ignoring it; we solicit ruin and disaster.

What are the aims for a new ecological based economy? It shows that is capable of self-restraint. It incorporates one which is functional and self-perpetuating. It is one that does not eradicate the planet’s absorptive capacity and talent for recuperation. It aims to replenish resources and reaffirm renewable energy production and conservation, wherever possible to avoid x inefficiency and provides a deadweight gain to society (due to potentially undesirable (polluting, production and consumption that does not take place). Environmental taxes and other penalties would be imposed on all major polluters to force them to find market efficient; commercially profitable solutions or face compelled bankruptcy. The market mechanism needs reconfiguring to include the environmental opportunity cost; marginal social/private cost versus marginal social/private benefit. People would be more satisfied if existing products were more environmentally durable lasted longer with a higher focus on quality rather than quantity. The longer a simple 182

product’s lifespan such as a shoe –the less that need to be made. Localism reduces carbon footprints where possible. Hence the less emissions/pollution created. We would also refuse to use conventional economic indicators such as GDP/GNP and focus more on social and environmental measures of progress.

An ecological economy concerns itself with balanced equilibrium, optimising the efficient allocation of scarce resources so that prices centre around ecological truths. There are no hidden subsidies and tax incentives to polluting industries distorting costs. It is not one that consumes without any regard for organic sustainability or the preservation of biodiversity/other species. Therefore, it requires conservation and saving capacity. It would involve an ethos of the environment first over development. Examples include promoting eco-tourism to aid local communities. This means get them interested in sharing profits from conserving nature/organic farming. Provide advice/material support/ ecological literacy –and then get participants to lobby their relevant constituencies. It is possible for more established ecological organisations to start grass roots movements in all parts of the world. These include the economically developed ones ignoring these issues as many Third and Second World countries have done. These nations cannot be allowed to become toxic dumping middens for the by-products of heavily industrialising countries such as China (no matter how profitable it may seem in the short term. We need a model of the economy where it fundamentally pays to conserve the environment. Stakeholders ought to experience immediate penalties/ losses if refusing to comply with the defence of the planet ecologically.

Consider the Developing World by granting communities property rights to their environment. This would resolve the overgrazing, erosion, water and refuse dumping issues inherent in the “tragedy of the commons.” This occurs where lacking the profit/ self-interest incentives for communal land –the environment incurs moral hazard, where everyone has either the incentive or the opportunity of shifting their transaction costs onto others –including negative externalities such as pollution.

Cities could integrate more with rural areas... with greater parks/suburbs and trees –add green belts; roof gardens; subterranean allotments; atriums; conservatories and allotments etc. This is particularly in dense/ crowded US and European metropolises. We envision the reintroduction of the emerald dimension. This includes far more afforestation rather than tree felling and the organic aspect into the sterilised, concrete wastes of the urban metropolis. It aims to make our cities more sustainable, more breathable… liveable, as fitting and worthy places for members of any race, rather than erecting phenomenal barriers blockading it. By doing this; we encourage people never to forget about the Arcadia that our cities could be rather than the blighted wastelands that so many have become… in the frenzy for ever greater urbanisation…

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Ultimately Nature is capable of healing, given time and respite from humanity. There are two options to be phased over a suitable time period:

The First; is to consider saving the surface of the world –to live in; for recreation; for monuments; culture; enlightenment and preserving the environment. Of all the surfaces of the planet that are left and where our impact on the planet is most negligible: is under the surface of Earth. Consider malls, they could easily be settled underground. Most have virtually no contact with the outside world already. The same principles include warehouses. Air could be filtered from the atmosphere above/power could be supplied etc... These ideas would have to be at underground stations to commence with. But they could extend deeper below current infrastructure; foundations of above buildings and soil layers capable of supporting vegetation and fauna above...

The second is to take most resources currently devoted to the unprofitable; counterproductive armed forces of the world and the “Warfare Mentality” and use that to target space instead. This previously outlined and to be encapsulated in the forthcoming manifesto for the Space Age: The Astronautical Odyssey. For 7 billion people have exhausted this planet. Short of curbing excess billions and uprising in a real Eco Revolution for a new Ecological Age; we may have to look to the infinite frontiers and resources in the Universe of a Billion Worlds to save us. We can start anew to work with a planet’s surface ecology and limits, rather than ignoring them.

Pigouvian Tax Graph $ per unit Standard

emission MEC (Marginal Enforcement Cost)

a Tax levelb

C DMarginal Net Private Benefit (MNPB)

Q” Q Q*

Emission

Environmental economists also recommend that emissions can be reduced through various government policy instruments such as taxes; standards; tariffs and subsidies; each with their own advantages and disadvantages. To a certain extent, taxes are efficient in achieving environmental reductions; being administratively simple to

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implement using the existing tax collection mechanism for alternative nonenvironmental sources aided by the usage of existing law enforcement and tax compliance methods –with sufficient existent information. This acts in contrast to standards and subsidies; which incur asymmetrical information over a company’s Marginal Abatement Costs in reducing pollution for those enforcing these policy instruments. As the above diagram depicts; without taxes, polluter’s profit = a +b +c+ d and firms pollute up to Q*. With an imposed tax; firms pay b + c =in pollution taxes to the state. Thus; they have an incentive to reduce pollution to optimal Q, where Marginal Net Private Benefit (MNPB) = (Marginal Enforcement Cost MEC) as this results in reducing pollution to the Pareto efficient level (MAC =MAD/ MSC =MSB); as firms avoid enforcement costs D. In addition; they support the equity performance criteria by internalizing externalities and sustaining the Polluter Pay’s Principle. This compells polluters to pay taxes on emissions; in contrast to subsidies, which violate this principle in addition that of Moral Objectivity, by compensating polluters not to pollute at the expense of the public.

However; this is only to a point; as consumers should pay for generating pollutant externality goods. From a public policy perspective –unless justified and clarified to the public/ or combined with other policy instruments/ safeguards; Taxes also are politically unacceptable as they introduce the regressive element of punishing consumers; who endure price rises from tax increases passed on by businesses who seek to retain profit margins and face the issue of moral hazard where parties have both the incentive and the opportunities of shifting the consequences of their actions onto others. They are less flexible to changing circumstances –being more difficult to legally modify or repeal, than standards which can be more easily adapted. Thus; although they may fail to resolve equity, flexibility and political acceptability to a point; taxes augment the polluter pays principle and satisfy the pollution reduction criterion through law enforcement.

Standard Graph

To a certain degree, environmental standards as another solution to resolve environmental damage being produced as economically inefficient; have the advantages of greater flexibility –in quicker adjustments to changing technology; Marginal Abatement Costs and in equity; which results in a smaller society deadweight loss (MD curve slope≥ MAC curve slope) –as production and technology adjust to new standards. As the above diagram illuminates; under the old standard/ technology: Total Abatement Costs (TAC’s) = d + e; at standard E. Imposing

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a standard at F; incurs lower MAC (1) in attaining this new standard and investing in new technology = TAC’s: =d (financial incentive = e). Thus; firms will reduce standards up to d as it reduces overall costs/ enhances overall profit up until that point –providing a certain; specified target that can be achieved. Being voluntary and non-fiscal; it also reduces enforcement costs lacking a tax’s compulsion element (given all parties –even those who only spectated/ supported by did not physically participate or a subsidy’s MAC distortion increase.

Standards also partially resolve equity by imposing a Pareto efficient pollution limit. Yet; this is only to a point; as standards’ transaction and monitoring costs suffer asymmetrical information if f≥e –endure for adopting new technology standard. In addition; standards enact the distributional impact of a uniform standard; penalizing smaller firms which may suffer from higher MAC’s/ less cost and pollution efficiency along with area variations; in contrast to non-geographic/ firm discriminating taxes and subsidies. In addition; if firms do comply with existing standards; they may suffer from the imposition of newer, higher standards as a paradoxical disincentive for firms to comply. Given the adjustment costs involved –require efficiency. Therefore; although standards satisfy environmental damage reduction criteria of flexibility and enforceability –depending on regulatory behaviour –being voluntary and politically more acceptable than taxes or subsidies; they fail that of equity; imposing non-uniform costs for various polluters –it penalises less polluting/ smaller firms.

Subsidy Graph

The alternative public policy instrument for reducing and controlling emissions: Subsidies is advantageous in being enforced up to a point as firms adopt these voluntary measures; being provided with financial compensation up to MD =MAC, aiding monopolies generating positive externalities -where taxes penalizes– (working when pollution equipment costs are higher than potential profits thus dissuading investment) and thus for every additional subsidy unit – a unit of pollution e0 to e* = a + d at reduction cost a; yields a net payment of d. If they produce more –as emission levels are based on past levels (grandfathering); they gain higher d payments; -which provides an incentive to exaggerate costs. Enforcement criteria is weakened by moral hazard, asymmetrical information; and high observation costs. This compensation violates the Polluter Pay’s Principle, and equity criteria –as firms are being paid to prevent pollution rather than 186

undertaking to repay the net private benefit that they gained from it. Hence; although subsidies may cover costs and provide incentives for cost efficiency criteria up to e*; they protract inequity; are difficult to enforce and accentuate pollution.

Dynamic Efficiency Graph for Taxes and Standards

Standard

Tax

To a certain extent subsidies rectify pollution by instigating; dynamic efficiency to a point; as they provide market incentives for new firms to enter, while providing old firms with incentives of reducing pollution up to Marginal Abatement Cost: MAC = Marginal Damage MD; covering abatement costs. However; although they may diminish individual firm’s emissions; they produce an increase in overall pollutant emissions. This is by encouraging a wider source of emitters to enter for the monetary inducement and because subsidies are based on past emission levels. Firms have an incentive to pollute –to acquire higher subsidies and enhance profit rather than potentially acquire to technical efficiency. In contrast to subsidies; standards provide dynamic efficiency up to a point; otherwise firms suffer from the penalties of non-compliance costs –and reduce their abatement costs to the Pareto/ pollution optimal standard e (o). Yet, as the above diagram demonstrates; taxes result in lower MAC‘s and emissions; in offering dynamic incentives for investing in new technology beyond e(o)- e(1); as this contracts total tax incidence and so; they complete the criteria of dynamic efficiency most efficaciously.

Cost Efficiency for Taxes and Standards

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Taxes; standards and subsidies all satisfy the performance criteria of cost efficiency for a preset objective. However; as the graph illustrates; tax costs are lower than standard costs. In addition, subsidies incur the deadweight loss of payment represented by square (OTA), while total tax costs = f + g +2h + j. Total standard costs = 2g + 2h + j + k + l). Subsidies fail Pareto, allocative and productive efficiency in not minimizing marginal abatement costs. They impose an opportunity cost to tax payers; who forgo alternative expenditures and to governments a deadweight loss to society –due to potentially desirable production and consumption that does not take place. Standards affect all firms equally –and benefit them in MAC; as all adjust production/inputs to accomplish their set limits; in contrast to taxes which penalize smaller less efficient firms suffering from higher MAC. In addition; taxes penalize domestic at foreign benefit; who gain from comparative Ricardian trade advantage –with lower costs. However; as taxes provide cost minimization motivations; in contrast to level sustaining standards or cost enhancing subsidies; most effective at cost efficiency performance criteria.

In conclusion, although taxes, standards and subsidies all fulfil cost efficiency performance criteria to a certain extent; as all three are capable of satisfying a pre-determined target; subsidies generate a societal deadweight loss/ x inefficiency despite reducing MAC’s for some producers in reducing pollution; due to potentially desirable production/ consumption that doesn’t occur. Although standards are cost efficient –n enforcement costs –no financial penalty/ incentive and requiring less information; they are cost inefficient in eradicating MAC’s beyond an optimal pollution standard. However, in complete information and enforcement/ administration efficiency; taxes satisfy cost efficiency and enforcement criteria up to (MEC = MNPB) and (MAC =MD) in contrast to subsidies/ standards which entail high transition costs. Taxes and standards satiate the equity performance criteria –s taxes support PPP in contrast; to subsidies which provides financial incentives to enhance pollution output. Finally; standards and subsidies only satisfy dynamic efficiency to a degree –as they provide no incentives of eliminating pollution beyond their expected target (subsidies provide fiscal motivations to exceed it); providing firm investment incentives in new pollution abatement technology –entailing dynamic efficiency as firms pay less in taxes, for eroding MAC’s.

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There is a solution although it may not be considered politically popular (let alone acceptable to our critics) to avert the extermination of virtually every threatened species. This is provided we have the courage and resolve with fortitude to undertake any potential step necessary, no matter how dramatic! There are means to not only ensure the survival and prosperity of many species but to avert the consequences of a world without them. Clearly, such an approach is necessary, given how so many other alternatives have failed. The answer is simple. The only way that might potentially induce a great many more people to appreciate the need to consider protecting other species is if it potentially is in their self-interest to do so. This implies using the profit incentive. We would advocate the commercial farming of game and the legitimate trading/ establishing farms/ businesses etc. of endangered species. These must be raised commercially using surfeit stock from parks, game reserves, zoo’s etc and bred commercially for specific market demands as with any quantity. Simple economics demands of increasing supply lowers prices… to satisfy demand. Not only is employment created and profit earned giving the community/ private sector an incentive to cooperate but those species legitimately allocated to reserves/ sanctuaries/ parks etc, would with the species, have a greater potential chance to do so.

Consider the example of the rhino, which the South African Parks Service is currently experiencing an endemic and Herculean struggle to fight against poaching. If South Africa were to leave CITES and arrange bilateral investment and trade treaties with Laos, Vietnam and China. These are the only countries seriously interested in the superstitious twaddle about rhino horn being such a potent and virile aphrodisiac. Then they could arrange to legitimise rhino horn trading. South Africa’s private sector could breed rhino. Lower market prices would discourage poachers from facing the lower rewards and increased risk. We would-still deploy rangers and the army (to follow the Botswana model to shoot poachers preventing losses of genuine park stock. These Parks can still ensure the survival of the rhino. But countries also benefit from commercially breeding game not just impala, kudu and antelope/guinea fowl but rarer species -such as the rhino so developing countries can profit from conservation… It also makes sense from the perspective of the individual member of the species (as well as the species themselves); as it ultimately enables more of them to potentially exist than under an alternative scenario projected by politicians, environmentalists and the well-meaning public. These fail to consider the underlying motivation of humans include fear of reprisals and self-interest. Or how can one potentially profit or gain from this? Even a rhino that lives –without a horn, for instance –is better than no rhino. Allowing antelope or any species to live extensively… before they die, is an improvement on never living at all and avoiding their extermination… (Besides; until we communicate and understand their perspective; how can we make judgements culling their right to life and to exist prosperously?)

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We have lost far too many species. Only if we can use this advantage, will we allow other species a chance to return and to persist in a world that continues to be exploited by humans. Then both market forces via humans. Nature will seek to ensure that a sufficient supply exists privately for… human market consumption and usage… whilst preventing disruptions to the natural ecosystem –so that all benefit. Regulation and taxation also will help them to survive more so than criminalising. These resources not make it commercially advantageous for the profit minded sector to contribute creating eco-linked employment and development opportunities, preserving parks and providing revenue elsewhere/lowering legal enforcement, administrative and other associated costs of banning the trade in endangered species. By allowing the private sector to do so it saves the sanctuaries. It shifts power from criminals i.e. poachers and the shadow economy; to the formal market sector This offers anyone interested in conservation has greater potential for control and influence. This galvanises us to consider the welfare of all organic life-forms not just our own…

Conservation can be made profitable and not just that of rare species alluded to above but that of biomes of various ecosystems. The Dune Approach recommends that in order to entail the regeneration of the planet and ensure the optimal survival of as many species as possible magnifying potential biodiversity. It emphasises that we conserve all forms of environment… offering every incentive to do so. But it is not just recommended from a conservation potential as an initiative designed to be preserved by the public sector for beneficial externalities. We believe the market failure that discourages NGO’s and the commercial/profit minded to invest in conserving the environment, can be overcome with sufficient incentive and inducement to do so. It is necessary in order to conserve as much of the world as possible from being mutilated irrevocably. Because of the externalities and obvious benefits concerned, we would grant exemptions possible tax deductions for any environmental conservation effort undertaken, whether it is the installation of renewable energy; the reduction of emissions and pollutants or the undertaking to install gardens and trees etc and facilities. Or invest in vacant land –especially with environmental/ conservation potential…

This on its own is insufficient; we would further point out the potential advantages of extending the existing areas devoted to conservation –especially rare/endangered species This targets using existing species by speaking of the potential commercial opportunities that exist from research. Swamps, rainforests, deserts and wetlands, the savannah, volcanos… even the tundra and permafrost… There might be value in lichen for all we know. New discoveries keep occurring. Who knows perhaps the answer to immortality or blindness or any sexually transmitted disease and other aspects of other degenerate rejection of Gaia might be there? We cannot honestly claim to have discovered every possible purpose or usage of every single organic substance; core element, material, 190

compound or genus. Why shoot ourselves by causing extinction? If we use seeds/ specimens/samples from the existing ecosystem and allow them to be commercially grown in greenhouses/parks etc for research and experiment purposes… not only might we benefit. Companies also gain from the potential discoveries that may exist. But a greater number of species would be salvaged from extinction. Virtually everything on our planet matters. Each occupies a significant ecological niche as the Gaia Dialogues suggest. Even if something in itself were to have no obvious value… in itself it has intrinsic value and is worth saving from extinction. This is not just the perspective of inherent worth and the right to live in itself because Gaia and the Elementals themselves determined it so… But as as part of the ecosystem in symbiosis and possibly allowing another species to survive, it may serve our ultimate desire, need or purpose.

The more terrains that are chartered and experiments that are undertaken greater the potential achievements. This is provided that they are relevant to the purported research objective/s and not merely a Perversion of Science as extrapolated previously). Somewhere on this planet and others is the answer to every mystery; the resolution to every problem; the salvation to every peril that besets us. It retains the means to any end, that we might ultimately wish to achieve as humans… even that of space. The purpose of life embodies a series of mysteries to resolve; experiences to face; wonders to marvel; curiosities to behold and discoveries to savour. The environment can be the key to them all, if we allow it to be. It cannot be considered wrong from an environmental perspective –if humanity is sufficiently aware of their efforts and seeks to reduce or modify them –to conserve as much as possible. Not only does it ensure this happens, not only does it provide a far greater proportion of humans to be willing subscribers to this most hallowed of causes but it ensures a greater optimal survival and chance of life, prosperity, perhaps even happiness for a great many more species than the current Globalised Age permits.

Even if humans continue to desire to profit from the environment, we can at least ensure they establish an approach to reduce the environmental impact and consequences of their actions. We believe to preserve rather than raze, so that they are motivated enough –from a self-interest perspective to care, through benefitting from it. Surely it is worth undertaking any approach, if it enables this to be possible? We cannot just rely on the environmentalists and the mere fringe sectors of the human community and nongovernmental organisations; or the plucky, valiant approaches of those individuals heroic enough and tenacious enough to be bold and conserve. At the moment there are all too few of those. A flaw with these beings is that their efforts are too few. Many are too uncoordinated with each other. They lack connections or understanding of the basic factors which motivate humans to inspire change on the planet wide basis that this treatise seeks to will people to accomplish. Only by ruminating upon; listening and implementing the possibilities and dreams of people can formal institutions; NGO’s; 191

academics; corporations and government departments motivate humanity. This entails not suppressing but prompting encouragement wherever possible (and resources/ publicity/support), wherever practically necessary and feasible. This dares to provoke and promulgate the desire and capacity for answering every environmental problem that befalls us; that they ostensibly are concerned about but little changes.

These policy instruments and other proposed reforms may be simpler or more complex; than relying on governments to honour the equivalent of Kyoto and Montreal Protocols; CITES and other global environmental agreements. Although we can try to encourage corporations and households to voluntarily see planet saving as the best short-term; intermediate and long term. As those ideologues and sceptics would have us, we have to be realistic. The benefits need to be spelled out and then enforced by governments; academics; consumers and the media. Corporations need to be voluntarily engaged not only be compelled to act. Economists can easily verify empirically; or qualitatively the benefits of the environment for the economy. The environment is recession-proof. It is not so vulnerable to supply and demand or vague business cycles. Securing our future makes not only perfect common sense; but also perfect business sense. How much are we willing to value our world? How much do we value the resources and the possibilities of Gaia? How much are we willing to spend to solve our common problems? Some might argue that these costs are mainly historical. Others mostly incurred them. Therefore, others should pay. However; it is our generation and future ones that have the most to lose. And therefore we need to cough up now; while reform is plausible and possible. For if we do not pay now, who will ultimately pay for our ecological crimes, when and how much?

Chapter 15: The Charter and Preamble of Fauna/ Flora Emancipation:

“It should not be believed that all beings exist for the sake of the existence of humans. On the contrary; all other beings, too, have been intended for their own sakes, and not for the sake of something or someone else.”

Maimonides –Jewish theologian and philosopher

Many may denounce the point of enfranchising other sapient organisms. Many may query “Why is such a charter is necessary?” Others will be questioning the reality of this proposed charter. How feasible it is economically? How can it be justified morally, legally, economically, politically and socially, given the spectrum of humans whom lack this privilege; in a world still infected with so many other problems of globalisation? Still more 192

may agree in principle but refuse to act! Others still may be questioning one’s sanity. We should have the right to live and die as we please, based on the Harm Principle but at not at the planet’s expense. So should other species, even if it needs to be protected legally as well. However; given that the basic test of whether or not we deserve the self-appointed position as curators and masters of the planet; depends on our collective global environmental management record, reform must be enacted. Given that our species current and previous endeavours to score highly or even acceptably... legislation is clearly necessary, especially where insufficient capacity exists to prosecute those who continue to defile their ecological heritage. This charter is needed to ensure other species of their birthright; their fundamental right to survive; their dignity and their happiness. (Only in self-defence or necessity to live e.g. nutrition should it be infringed). This means striving towards not only recommended legislation that needs to be universally applicable but proposed practical methods of enforcement and penalties for violation. The mistake of most legislators is to presume that their decrees are sufficient to resolve the problem. But we advocate resolving asymmetrical information and moral hazard. This means both the incentive and the opportunity of shifting the costs of one’s actions to someone else, as most law violators do.

The facts are simple. Humans are not unique. They connect to all other parts of the ecosystem… It is ironic that more and more; even modern scientific research appears to vouchsafe this. The universe was not created about or before humans but for all. Our history and our legacy must reflect this! The basis of law and justice is natural law, which concerns itself with fairness/equality even “survival of the fittest,” but also that of necessity and symbiosis. We are all dependant on other species and parts of the biota. It is the same with human law. It concerns itself with impartial treatment for humans as an ideal. With all this in mind; why should other species not deserve some measure of extended legal protection; especially if they can prove themselves to have earned it from their role in contributing to human advancement? Or to be no less deserving for many a species than many so-called humans who by their vices; actions thoughts and character appear to not merit it nearly as much? Our species would benefit from greater natural/ non-human connections. Other legislation would not fail to benefit in considering others as beings worthy of natural rights, especially those of proven sentience and capacity for emotion/pain/memory and cogniscence. This means endorsing it for other humans who perceive them merely as chattel/property or enslaved. We need to dispense this elitist and overbearing mentality when it comes to legal discrimination against other species and provide for the full/ equivalent defences for all organisms that merit it. Even others deserve far more rights than they currently have available to them

We should always remember this. We act as a fluke… an aberration of life, whether consciously conceptualised or not by our deities –including the pantheistic Gaia. 193

Considerable time passed, as far as we know before our predecessors of the human species appeared in the essential form they exist at present after the planet’s conception. Many species were here first! Some had survived far worse -and outlived; outplayed and outlasted us. The coelacanth and the crocodile are but two. Some like the cockroach seem almost certain to outsurvive us, in virtually any environmental crisis as natural survivors. The planet and the Universe we inhabit were not created for us alone. Other beings have their own purposes not common to ours. And for the vast majority, we have yet to find out what those might be. Other species matter just as much as we. To the ecosystem they may matter more, (At least they have a purpose beyond mere instant self-gratification.) They exist not for the sake of any species alone –not even the Elementals themselves; but for the welfare, prosperity and survival of all other conscious, animate, sentient and organic life-forms. We would do well to remember that.

Without our planet we are hapless. In fact, consider other life organisms able to survive from a far younger age, while our progeny remains vulnerable. Indeed; we are dependent upon so many other forces to exist at all – to be alive, let alone to thrive! We cannot exist in autarky –disposing of the products of our planet –and most science appears to forget this. Most religions and most people do too. To those who protest; we inquire: Just what has our species done for the welfare/heath of other species and the world without thought of evident self-interest, advantage; profit or necessity? Even conservation –a noble and altruistic purpose as well as trying to resolve the planet’s ecological crisis –would never have occurred as a result of other species/Nature alone. It would not have been necessary if we as humans had concentrated more on basic ecological literacy, personal responsibility, forethought and consideration for the consequences of our actions rather than blundering about in ignorance.

Otherwise; we are violating the natural order of an entire Universal Natural Cosmogony order, not just our planet itself. For nowhere in the Universe could our species survive by being so reckless, so vain and so presumptuous in complete hubris. Each human who sees the planet as existing solely for the benefit of this one species alone; is advised to change… if they wish to continue being a part of our ecological symbiosis with Mother Earth. Each human who essentially sees himself or herself as superior to other species needs to change their perspective. This is if they are to be considered worthy of the ultimate privileges of life and an environment capable of supporting their own existence. It is not us who needs to threaten them directly! It is not the planet who is being capricious, out of pure petty spite! It is their own inaction against reform or ecologically destructive actions; that have precipitated this peril. It is themselves who are to blame and deserve the consequences of their own actions.

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Unfortunately, though, we have a responsibility to prompt them to change. For it will mark our doom… All our efforts and reforms will be meaningless, unless we can persuade/ compel the major sources to change. This include the poor in numerically superior quantities, the major consuming materialist classes of those that are most heavily addicted as engorged consumers of this planet destroying lifestyle; otherwise known as global capitalism. They extend to the major polluting producers and the governments/ public who support them with markets and incentives. Or fail to use their sovereignty –to bypass the lobbyists. In fact any group, debate, polemic, law; protest; concrete environmental reform of almost any kind, is largely immaterial; if we continue to ignore the lack of willing participation; empathy, concern and desire/will to reform and be involved… For without including them; any measure that we might personally; socially or even politically adopted, will result in the free rider problem. They benefit and continue to do so at ours and the planet’s expense. As long as people experience alienation from their planet and are detached from feeling any empathy; they will not see the need for reform.

Think of the charter as one of necessity. Even if animals were not in themselves equal; what does it say about the principles of those who maltreat them? Is this the sort of behaviour to endorse or encourage? Consider the fact that a charter and legislation might be necessary to extend to all environmental problems, to ensure that other species are entitled to the same rights as we. It might prompt legislators, those in government, in power and authority in all areas as well as the public; to take the environment and other species far more seriously now they have legal protection. Given that as parasites, we depend upon them it proclaims obvious benefits for ourselves as well. Consider something like pollution or illicit dumping? What does it argue for the notion of civic pride not just in one’s environment but in society and the country you are in, not to mention the notion of being a criminal law breaker? This is why laws exist. To act as a necessary form of community imposed consensual restraint; rather than an invitation to act recklessly; infringing the rights of others. Besides; legislation is a tangible commitment to the ecological cause. At the moment; those who argue against speciesism; the neglect; torture and cruelty to other living beings not just our own human race, in most countries are branded as criminals. This will provide an indispensable legislative framework to support them in the notion of other species being innocent until proven guilty. That even if some may have to die out of considered human necessity (debatable); at least they do not have to be tortured so.

That is why law exists and is necessary. This is why humans have to be prodded into something that should be elementary and basic to them. And what could be simpler to grasp then that of conservation? This is to not only ensure self-survival but continued self-prosperity so that all species ourselves included; can benefit from the munificence of Mother Earth sustainably? The sheer simple fact is; at the moment many animals exist in 195

nothing more than slavery and involuntary servitude. For being deprived of fundamental liberties that many constitutions around (at least nominally) to be the recommended and justifiable rights of human beings); is equivalent to slavery/involuntary servitude. Now reality and pragmaticism; not to mention society and politics/ economics appears to dictate that these species cannot all be granted their liberty. They contend this for humans to thrive at similar levels to that which they have historically and currently done so.

We can proclaim a charter enfranchising those species that deserve such (at least providing representative tribunes to defend them politically; economically; socially and environmentally. This appoints also guardians and defenders to protect their rights, health and welfare legally. This mirrors that which we would afford to human beings –many of whom; appear to deserve these rights far less, upon reflection). At the very least; if they are to be treated as property. They could be treated fairly and decently. There is nothing to prevent us from ensuring the time spent on this planet is not one of unmitigated, shameful suffering and sadistic torment, torture and pain. At the moment; people value their precious computers; technology and possessions –than they do the welfare of any species. They cherish and protect technology and material goods being inorganic and inanimate –lacking life in contrast which is devoid of any spark of life; which creates far more stress and problems; that pollutes but does not produce, more so. Lesser values are assigned to other species, whom they have had cause to make dependent upon them, in one capacity or the other. We have to ask what kind of a world; what kind of an organism is so despicable to truly value materialism –the lifeless –over the living?

Our leadership lacks accountability; responsibility and fealty to the planet and to fellow humans. This is especially those who have done anything in favour of the environmentalist cause –or have tried to. This legislation will make leadership incur the consequences of their own actions. Our global leadership have obviously failed us! For aeons; they have failed to prioritise the planet. They have not even really tried. Asking the corporate and government sectors of the world to voluntarily implement a few measures over an increasingly protracted time lag is hopeless (only have to note at the failures of the Kyoto Protocol. Current reform is nothing more than tokenism or pinprick gestures. They will not save us… It is time to implement legislation. Every politician that has accepted bribery or aligns themselves with those anti-environmental entities and their lobbyists are to be treated as equally guilty. All CEO’s; directors and board members who seek corporate profits by pillaging the planet – (for who sustainable development is nothing more than a fig leaf) and their paid academic consultant lackeys must pay or perish! All celebrities that have failed to deserve their fame by ignoring the cause; all media – who have sensationalised; trivialised or marginalised and ignored the biome that we all need and ought to value, must pay or be purged! As humans we all deserve a purified environment and quality of life the same as any other species. We need help for those that want to 196

value their world and rely no more on legislators and other incentives/deterrents to defend the community from these negative externalities…

The way to change this is partially through legislation. Commerce and civilisation can only be compatible if it replenishes every resource it extracts –twentyfold –or even a hundredfold (depending on its endangered status). Most technology is only worth conserving if it makes things better. This means it is environmentally sustainable, for other species –as well as humanity. Technology that compounds the problems that complicates the bleakness of the reality we have to face; why would we wish to seek that? However; legislation and popular education in ecological literacy is only worth something; if people implement it –and follow it; wholeheartedly. If from a sufficiently early age people are endowed with a sense of not only civic but environmental responsibility; then the need for legislation should evaporate. People themselves do not require compulsion to follow their natural instincts. It is a natural trait of any species to venerate Gaia and to appreciate the fecund and luxuriant cornucopia that she has freely offered; without malice or an ulterior motive (unlike so many human ones). It is only the artificial nature of our itch to terraform, to believe arrogantly in so called evolution and progress –that we are superior to every other creature that exists; of our suppression; persecution; disdaining or ignoring the environmental cause and those who follow it, that fails us. It is only a refusal to listen and to take it seriously that created so many environmental problems. It makes legislation one of the few options that any capable of solving the Ecological Crisis; ever bother to contemplate. It is time for our species, those worthy enough and deserving of the distinction –to honour the planet. Each of us will be required to publicly declaim our honouring of our planet via a public Oath of Allegiance. Anyone elected or appointed to public office will also have to renew this. Even if they fail to honour it; everyone will know their true fealty. At the very least; they will be liable for charges of hypocrisy socially and legally…

If we were actually sincere about undertaking whatever was necessary to make legislation work; we would ensure that any environmental legislation-especially this Fundamental Charter; will be safeguarded by special forces who are devoted purely to the preservation of the planet’s ecology. They could be self-financing from the myriad violations that occur They would still have enough to finance the ecological restoration of defoliated; polluted environments and rehabilitate all affected species/sponsor the conversion of our world to a better planet. The best way to start and set an admirable example to follow; would be to target the largest corporate; industrial and government violators. We’d compel them to change their ways and adopt mandatory reforms; pay immense reparations to the community and environment. We’d force the CEO’s and board members of anyone who does not voluntarily comply in the quest to save the planet to personally be liable and to participate in restoring the planet. This means community/ planet service and labour. 197

Social media can publicise their damage to their consumer base and the media, so it cannot be ignored. Legislation could be retroactive. This is wherever any environmental damage could be isolated and sufficiently proven to be the consequence of any action; decision; thought; communication or policy of any individual, organisation, department, corporation or human generated entity rather than that of nature. This is especially where it could have been reduced/mitigated, where ecological alternatives with lower environmental opportunity costs exist and where it was nonessential. That entity would be held liable for the full restoration cost. In addition to possible criminal prosecution and compound interest related fines, backdated to the beginning of this ecological assault; any who fails to environmentally reform within a prescribed time period; will be blacklisted. They would never receive government patronage/contracts. The government acts helpless. But it is not powerless! It has considerable power and could rally the masses if it so chose… It has the power as well as the responsibility to the people. But also it entails protecting the voiceless and the hapless other organisms and biomes, wherever it can –ethically and practically…

The community will be encouraged to participate voluntarily in this. Get environmentalists to prosecute violators and support them as allies, granting them the platforms to denounce those who do nothing more than cosmetic changes. Or not even that. There are other ways to prompt compliance. If nothing else, all to qualify for citizenship –a truly planet conscious citizenship should affirm a public vow of fidelity legally binding; to forswear loyalties other than to the planet as well as all they cherish most dear. These enshrines penalties for noncompliance including various means i.e. social ostracism etc. We would provide fiscal incentives in terms of rewards for any that track down those who commit any environmental crime or atrocity. This means even tree felling signs; poaching; littering; polluting; dumping waste or otherwise. They would receive at least half of the financial penalty imposed, provided they agree to testify in court/a community tribunal to try environmental offences. They can provide the guilty party or information e.g. contact details that could potentially lead to their arrest. This might increase the prosecution and conviction rate as being profitable, patriotic, ethical and in one’s self interest to act so. We could also have various commendations and awards of distinction to praise those with exceptional valour in devotion and defence to their besieged world. This includes those who are prepared to act and perform outstanding demonstrations of eco-literacy; an eco –conscience and eco justice.

We would naturally penalise others for their complacency for failing to inform and those who knew of a violation but failed to intervene. Complacency, indolence and lethargy will never again be tolerated as an excuse to be permitted in allowing any environmental injustice against our planet. We would provide a Listening Service so people can report these felonies in. This is so direct, swift execution of justice may occur. We would have 198

specialised police units (South Africa’s Green Scorpions as an example); guardians and environmental health inspectors in patrols in addition to the regular police and armed forces. The Listening Service would also serve another purpose for all those with ideas –who desire reform and want to be heard so that they might contribute to the environment. They could be mobilised to get involved and participate (special Activist; Protector and Guardian/Ranger units) as elaborated on elsewhere. Allowing people to directly participate in reform. This means embodying it not just in direct participation in drafting legislation and a charter; are more likely to be committed to something they feel a personal part of and have contributed to.

But why is legislation so necessary at all? Why do humans believe themselves to be superior despite their abysmal track record as planetary curators? Would other species have descended to this level of planetary collapse if we had never existed or retained our previous position of veneration and subservience to Gaia? Although hypothetical conjecture; it is difficult to contemplate any other species that we have accounted for and classified; stooping to such profanities as those humans who have desecrated Mother Earth to such a state of dissolution, whether past; present or future. Other species have not treated the planet so shamefully and brazenly; with such avarice; rapidity and cupidity as we. The question that each soul should ask with respect to not only the temptations of vice (as philosophers and theologians argue), but also that of the environment; is: “Can we control ourselves?”

Can we voluntarily restrain ourselves with respect to the planet? If we cannot; then this charter and other laws reflected in the following section: Proposed Legislation; is necessary to bind all humans on this planet to start to face up to reality. If humans were capable of respecting their world and voluntarily embracing the Eco–Revolution so imperative as the answer to our human orchestrated deluge of environmental disasters, then legislation would not need to constrict humanity so. But legislation has always been necessary to bind those degenerates who refuse to consider the welfare of themselves; their community and all living beings. Perhaps the only way that we will all bind ourselves is if it is asked of us, each and every single one of us. This is so that no one shirks from what must be undertaken. Each human theoretically needs to publicly, openly and transparently pledge themselves to doing their part to save the planet. A public Oath of Allegiance in front of their local community; friends and family might use peer pressure/ shame to ensure a degree of compliance. (That way they cannot claim ignorance etc.) Only if we affirm yes; then we can advance forward, living sustainably not beyond our finite carrying capacity.

Yet most humans are essentially selfish! No matter how altruistic; noble or virtuous we have to concede; our reticence and reluctance to consider the fate of other species and our

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planet. Or even for us lesser mortals who aspire to modest expectations and just try to get through our own lives in this chaotic Universe; planet and century we coinhabit. We have to concede that our motives are primarily short-term maximisation of self-interest and benefit –no matter how altruistic many of us proclaim to be. Such is natural. Only human nature, -conditioning, education, religion; experience and the community all shape so many anti-planetary perspectives. The more modern the society in many cases; the more entrenched this perception is. The less contact it has with its natural habitat/other species –the less the majority place a value upon it. However; too many of us have the delusion that we are somehow elevated above our species. This fails to regard others as equally worthy of the right to live their lives as best they can... that even a flea; fly or mosquito is inferior to us. And yet; we have no incontrovertible scientific evidence to affirm this. This Social Darwinist view asserting a “right” to exploit must change. It is too reinforced by militant secularist and planet hostile fundamental materialist technology worshippers such as Dawkins and by monotheist faiths;

What right (as Jenson and others say) do any of us humans have to interfere with the rights of other species, except the natural right of ensuring our own survival? But this does not extend to eradicating the lives of other organisms (especially the sentient ones). Why should other sentient species be denied rights? Many species individually and collectively deserve greater enfranchisement than many so-called humans – degenerates; criminals and so forth. Yet it is these humans that have rights, being so mollycoddled despite not deserving it; in violating our laws and social covenant. Fauna and flora which are completely innocent; receive minimal legal attention, let alone protection and recourse to defence; throughout the planet. It has been identified that every living creature –including vegetation possesses a soul and most demonstrate the seven basic biological characteristics that distinguish animate creations from inanimate such as stone. These include Movement; Respiration; Sensitivity; Growth; Reproduction; Excretion and Nutrition. The taking of life can only be justified out of the grounds of accident; sustenance/survival and self-defence or the defence of others. What other possible reason can exist? By this alone as a standard to endorse; most environmental ravishing perpetrated against plants and nonhumans; would not be accepted or authorised.

The purpose of this charter and proposed legislation is to create the legal protection necessary for the enfranchisement of other species –especially the rare and vulnerable ones under threat from our species. It needs to enshrine an ethic of responsibility as inaugurate a new chapter in civil rights. It is time to address the protection of the vulnerable and voiceless, of other species not just our own. Throughout history too few have spoken up to champion other species. Too many have been biased in the interests of mortal humans alone, as if they alone were worthy of elevation above the interests of any other species. And this applies to all humans; regardless of their behaviour/history/ 200

intentions/principles etc, proclaimed worthy of such. Religions, laws, politics, economics... the welfare of other species has often been relegated to among the last of priorities, policies or expenditure budgetary concerns. This age has to change it. We have emancipated humans from slavery and vassalage; genders; differing human racial colours; sexual orientation and religion. But we have; hitherto not done the same for other species and this Charter shall consider that.

The purpose of the charter is the equivalent of a constitution for humans. It is to provide a Bill of Rights for animals; flora and fungi one that will empower them. It will provide a legal framework of certainty for the vulnerable and those threatened with distinction. An environmental impact assessment study will be more than the current government token, fig leaf it is now. This is more potent than corporations mauling short-term profit from their development –at the expense of the affected innocents –the flora; fauna –and the non-benefitting human public too... We all lose out from the destruction of any species. Animals need liberation; emancipation and protection. For they represent the last of the groups that throughout history; that deserve rights but lack so many fundamental ones… The other enfranchisements for slavery, race, religion, gender, political beliefs, cultural, human; sexual orientation and other rights have been fought and enshrined constitutionally throughout most of the world. Species discrimination still remains tangible. Until they have these rights; until environmentalism is enforced by bullet if necessary. By the same effort to which humans seek to enforce their own laws… the struggle is not over! They need these rights; enshrined in this charter and in other seminal works on the ecosystem and animal liberation (of other species).

The reforms represent a start; only a start but a significant one, to avert us as humans from continuing to create the crime of active specism. Whether it is ensuring the health, welfare and right to survive/satisfaction of life without callous persecution or the threat of extinction or agonising slavery of every species –including that of farm animals. These aims towards the purification of the aether/ oceans; soil and other blessings of Mother Earth and the Olympian Elementals. It intends to minimise human impact where possible; whether it is prioritising research or conservation measures or legislation to facilitate contact and protection for all species that exist on this world. This is so that our planet –not the hubris of humanity, determines the survival; growth and attrition rate. (Given how little we really understand species in the absence of reciprocal communication, surely it makes more sense committing such decisions and fates; in the expert most qualified for aeons?). We believe these transgressions derive as a direct failure of humans to actively incorporate existing legislative provisions and recourse for entailing environmental justice that necessitates this Charter of Species Emancipation; Fundamental Flora and Fauna Bill of Rights and other solutions.

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Legislation and direct Programmes of Environmental Action would have to provide for the following:

Trees are living creatures. Start afforestation programmes particularly to reverse desertification and in Brazil; North Africa; Australia and Indonesia. We can only confine timber harvesting to commercial plantations which are permanently sustainable. Afforestation has to be prioritised. All municipalities and urban areas would be prohibited from tree felling. Those such as Durban South Africa; particularly xenophobic will be penalised nationally/by the province for eradication of existing and future trees, even “aliens” such as jacarandas which have no impact or bearing on the planet.

Preserve and defend all coral reefs remaining; allowing for their extension and recovery to ensure ecological tourism and the extension of marine preserves/ parks. Coral will also be treated as a living organism and receive legal protection –defended by the navies of the world, as should the remaining fish harvests.

Mangrove swamps will also be defended and extended; where remaining for the obvious implications along with loam/topsoil –prevent erosion.

All waterways will have to be cleansed, discharged of human contaminants –Introduce Pollution Monitoring Services, get local volunteers to report environmental infringements.

Alien species which have integrated –e.g. trout in the Drakensburg and Midlands of South Africa; jacarandas etc. in cities; will be left alone. Alien vegetation such as lantana; and animals such as rabbits in Australia will be uprooted to avoid local contamination.

All living creatures therefore deserve legal protection and will receive it... With that aim as much of a country’s terrain as practically possible; will be established for this purpose. Research too will concentrate on ways of communicating with every species –and understanding their psychology. This is so that we might have a greater and more truthful evaluation of our claims to “evolution,” “dominance over other living organisms” and “self-styled masters of the planet Earth.” At the very least; this could help to resolve one question that we never really have considered and yet is essential and that is: “What are the rights/ interests of other species?” By extension, “How can we understand them? How can we implement/ enforce them? Can they be made compatible to our own?”

Vivisection will be banned. There will be no usages of animals to test human effects…

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We would ban the confinement/ slaughter of those animals pregnant/ babies…. After all; why are these propositions considered so abhorrent if the intended subject of sacrifice is human; but people are perfectly willing to accept it on animals.

If we are to be omnivores with carnivorous inclinations, then we could at least have the decency to afford other species dignity; without senseless cruelty; as appeased as possible within their limited lifespan. Destroying their psyche and psychological essence cannot be good for them or for us; for that matter.

We will prohibit animal forced feeding and cannibalism. This is only sensible given the epidemic of mad cow disease was caused by the unnatural consequences of feeding cattle; parts of their deceased kin.

We would ban battery cages. Each animal deserves a decent amount of space -larger than that allocated to a corpse; access to air; sunlight; exercise; natural food and other opportunities to access certain inalienable rights to sustenance; health; welfare and the right to contentness. This means to have minimal interference from others; except where survival/ natural concern for the existence of other species interferes).

If other species are to die for our sustenance, they could at least die painlessly. They could have sufficient rest, food and water. (We would not starve or force feed them –or persecute them so). The time in which they are transported and made to undertake their ordeal could be legally limited by law.

We would prohibit painful methods such as branding of cattle and other mutilations and find other methods to track ownership, even if they cost more. I.e. electronic tagging/ cow bells etc…

At the very least; environmental offences/infractions should be treated with equivalent punitive measures (and enforcement resources) as those relating to humans including poaching equivalent to murder, theft; littering, specicide, torture and other such infringements of basic liberties. Pain, torture and crimes are not normally considered is virtues as acceptable; politically, ethically; in religion; individually or socially at least where humans are concerned. So why are so many of our species; prepared to deny this for other species?

Every problem has at least one solution. We merely have to remember what is it that we are trying to achieve and avoid deviation. We question anyone who denies that reform can be made. We impugn their cowardice in proclaiming that the spirit of humanity is unequal with the assistance, inspiration and will of both Gaia and the Gods. We reproach that which has achieved so much is incapable of answering the greatest challenge of this Age. The ecological crisis, the need of reform and how to make our species more ecologically ethical and conscious are some of the most intriguing; compelling and necessary of challenges for an Ecological Future. But they are not impossible. We must be willing to adopt even the most desperate measures; if we are to get through this. No

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matter what the price, there is always a way, if we would believe in it. Every problem; every crisis, every catastrophe that faces this Epoch can be resolved… if that is what we will, if that is what we truly decide and desire.

Consider the problem of rhino poaching. It has been suggested that this crime be legitimised in an attempt to use economics to undermine the price. Or alternatively; innocent rhinos must sacrifice their horns. However; an equally effective mechanism would be to flood the market with effective fakes. Julian Rademeyer’s Killing for Profit suggests using bamboo to provide a convinced sporled replica. One takes precautions in an area known to be frequented by police; at night and even smeared in fresh dung –so the overpowering pungent stench dissuades close examination. Creating a surfeit of supply would reduce the price to levels where a living rhino is worth far more to people than to a dead one. One could take the riskier option of exposing the fakes, so that the “medicine” or “aphrodisiac” is less likely to be convincing and people do not trust the supply. This is in addition to boycotting Vietnam and China denying diplomatic representation, trade and visas to citizens until their own governments resolve their poaching/other abysmal environmental track records); Under no circumstances should the hunting of any threatened; endemic or endangered species –including vegetation be legally permissible throughout the world. We are running out of species and species diversity. We cannot at this time afford to mindlessly gamble with those remaining.

A charter to emancipate species will grant other species freedom of movement, the safety of their habitat and food sources wherever possible; right to self-defence; protection from unrelated scientific or commercial experiments and freedom from torture. This but an extension of this concept. Why are humans alone allowed to influence their environment and afforded basic rights but we so grudgingly deny these even to those intellectually comparable and ethically superior, for example dolphins; elephants and primates? Only once legislation is passed and enforced; only when people are raised and educated; will the concept of rights and liberties for all deserving beings be not just apparent; but real. This means accepting that other species exist on this planet as equals in birthright and the sense of entitlement, the freedom to live our lives with as minimal disturbance as practical to the ecosystem; a far more recycle based; ecologically sensitive non-speciest set of beings…

Additionally; many species desire that which many humans sensibly desire liberty or the freedom to live your life in peace’ with as much prevention from strife and other intrusions as possible. We need to form a social covenant akin to that which Hobbes and Rousseau advocated for humanity; which recognises; identifies and protect this. It says something about our species’ arrogance; that few have previously bothered to champion this. Throughout our history even among those animal liberationists and conservationists; who

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has really bothered to consider this at all? And yet; given the interconnectivity of all parts of the world, we cannot afford to be alone. We need each other! This world that we inhabit is clearly more than just about our species alone. Many polytheist religions recognise this. So why cannot so many?

Many species show themselves to be as potentially sapient, perceptive, perspicacious, intuitive; as creative and as sentient as many humans. Why are so many beings, who scarcely deserve the appendage of human, let alone be part of the human; planet governing race (an unfortunate reality) afford all manner of considerations; empathy; rights and privileges. Yet they often yield back nothing but agony/misery and torment in return for all the effort expended upon them; when those sentient organisms –merely by being of different species; still face enslavement. For animals as living souls are treated often no better than disposable property. (People treat their precious computers and mobile phones better too often) And yet; just because some of these specimens who merely barely resemble humans are still afforded indulgences in behaviour etc; let alone rights without privilege and responsibility. Why should we deny this to other species; whom in most cases have proven themselves worthier (or of no less worth) than those resembling humans; considered entitled to rights without duties –or penalties. They are simply granted such being born; by a genetic lottery –by Gaia; who qualify by accident; by birthright to be members of the human race? But that has always been the quandary of those who campaign against speciests. (All nonhumans are deemed automatically lesser –in terms of deserving respect; entitlement and life).

After all; do we not care about our pet companions? Their personalities –their identity and behaviour/psychology –like dogs resembling their owners –as any decent Whisperer will testify? These should be enough to convince all of us of this need to conserve their health; wellbeing and other rights to protect them. The existence of the Royal Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals/Birds or their equivalents in many societies –show the degree of popular support for the concept. The valuable work societies such as these plus foundations; parks and trusts devoted to conservation show the necessity of such. Nothing is ever wasted if it makes permanent difference to those it aspires to assist and in affirming that; they need to be protected. In the UK; the RSPCA was founded under the Victorians. It would take almost a century for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children to be established. Yet, whether torturing pets or insects –or contributing to the superfluous deaths of many species; these societies and nature reserves are too few to save every species. Not only do these need to be extended but they need to be supported wherever we can for all species. This applies to even invertebrates that most are swift to decry and seek to exterminate with pesticide. But they also need extension not just into the Third World but also into supposedly sophisticated Second and

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First World nations. Especially in a country such as Japan noted for such atrocities as whaling and fish poaching.

Legislation needs to ensure the welfare of pets for example. Representative entities of the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and the RSPCB (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Birds) to check that premises and the people (interviewing neighbours etc.) are suitable for the responsibility of a non-human life (with private shops as well as ones sourced from their own). We would establish a comprehensive vetinary service with hospitals to receive equal priority of that of humans including animal psychologists. No animal would be employed in scientific laboratories for inappropriate cosmetics/medicine. Most of existing research remains incompatible with humans –as most (employ human criminals instead). All swimming pools would have nets/ designed for escape of hapless animals –invertebrates from drowning. Fisheries would be organically managed to prevent other animals suffering. There are so many steps that could be undertaken. Protection would ensure adequate and appropriate nutrition needs and weight restrictions for donkeys, horses, elephants, camels etc. for tourists, carts and other areas employed. After all; (as Jenson persuasively argues in ENDGAME), what right do they have to do this? What right do they have by any standard or perspective to destroy the rights, not just of other humans? What right have they to do that not even just that of other species but the right to self-respect; dignity and freedom from abuse; that we do not afford to perhaps any other, especially our very own planet…

Again; legislation and the charter will ensure; that we can establish a mutual partnership and ensure the welfare of other species. Currently; other species have been repressed and subjugated rather than formed an equal partnership. However; think of it practically –if we preserved as much of our environment as possible; as much biodiversity and other species as possible; how much that would enrich us. Not just materially but also through research and from communication. Psychologically; they would help us to alleviate the stress of the modern world. They could provide companionship as friends do, or inspiration in culture etc. If we look; what we accomplished on this one planet alone, without the involvement of any other species. Just imagine what we can do; if we contact and communicate with other species –in return for protecting them. Or at the very least; avert harassing them.

How many studies will it take to convince humanity of its need to do more? There will always be a purpose to conservation; as long as we continue to exceed the discharge and impact of the earliest humans and other species. There will always be a purpose –so long as we need them as company but also to thrive; survive and to be alive. That is why; this covenant is necessary. Some may ask; why is such a covenant necessary? It is necessary in the way; that existing legislation is necessary to protect the rights; that people delegate

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and entrust; the right to defend their existence; welfare and prosperity to government. Not all can defend every violation of these natural and civic rights. Historically up until the present; other species have not been able to present themselves and articulate a defence. But in time once the New Age has passed; they will have a chance and opportunity to do; This enacts what has never before been attempted as a project anywhere, to refute that humans alone are capable upon advancing/excelling of all mortal being…

Chapter 16: Proposed Legislation:

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress is not determined so much by the way it treats its humans but the way it treats its animals.”Mahatma Gandhi

How else can we get their attention?

Above all else; the purpose of laws is not necessarily to punish but to establish an effective deterrence. The punishment needs to work. Edicts can only work if it targets and reiterates actions, (especially those tainting the planet Gaia), have consequences. The purpose of the following proposed legislation is to resolve this. It is to take punitive solutions at extracting the polluter including the consumer rather than the public pay. Legislation must decree that marginal social benefits exceed marginal private (polluter) benefits. Take littering for example or illicit dumping. Few care or bother to enforce it. But think of the potential revenue that could occur, not to mention a better country –if it should be enforced. Existing ecological regulations have failed from a lack of will to enforce. However; if one could find a way to inculcate people with a sense of personal responsibility and to find it profitable/cost effective for corporations and governments to

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do so; then any existing and subsequent legislation might actually have a chance. Environmental legislation in particular is linked to the problems of the environment perceived as a public good (even for private ownership), few desire to take any responsibility over. It needs to consider both incentives and deterrents in order to ensure regulatory compliance.

The justice system could be skewered to be pro-environment instead of favouring the rich and influential, who pay only token fines if actually prosecuted. Any company/individual that fails to comply –upon its first infraction could receive a fine up to ten years potential turnover and censuring. Half is to go to the litigant presenting the case against the offending company upon presentation of sufficient evidence to ensure a conviction. A quarter compensates any affected parties facing environmental social costs and a quarter to the government. This is specifically earmarked for ecological restoration and to help other species –animal/vegetation etc. affected. Sufficient incentives such as these would make it costly not to comply with even minor environmental controls, reforms and legislation. Simultaneously these provide government authorities, particularly tax authorities with sufficient fiscal and legal incentive to prosecute violations. Any interference to mitigate damages in favour of the company such as bribes etc. will face a permanent ban from public service/judiciary as well as substantial fines and confiscation of property. In addition; any company convicted of any environmental crime (one that could be made universally applicable to all crimes); will be prohibited from benefitting from public tenders; contracts; subsidies. Or benefitting from government/the taxpayer in any form whatsoever – (including parastatals and anybody/institution under state influence). Finally, receiving negative publicity and sanctions may discourage violators from the loss of potential business and revenue.

The second infraction would involve the above but with the added incentive of personally holding the board of directors/executives/management/owners/stakeholders personally responsible for their environmental transgressions profaning the planet. They would be held directly accountable for the actions their company has taken –revoke the concept of limited liability when it comes to the environment. They would have further reasons to comply if they not only face the prospects of being fired without pension rights and receiving lifetime bans on further employment in the company. They might also face the confiscation of personal assets up to a half. The third and final infraction no matter the magnitude or severity of the offence committed -would be to immediately liquidate the company and prohibit further business. This is based on the principle of not learning from the consequences of one’s actions and the increase in punishment increasing with the frequency of the offence; The board and any directly responsible (including those who failed to prevent it) would face immediate personal fines confiscating a third to three quarters of their personal assets and receive a ban on pensions. The assets of the company 208

would be divided into three. One third to pay out innocent employees, to encourage cooperation; one third to compensate the victims directly affected and another third earmarked by government for environmental enforcement/administration costs to help the animal/plant species involved and restore the affected environment to its pre-impact or even pristine state.

Finally, one legal principle to apply in drafting the convictions above and in any environmental legislation subsequently in order to be effective. People must face the swift consequences of their actions. It needs community/local chiefs/local court incentives. They shall have the power of enforcing decrees including receiving half of any fines imposed for successful prosecutions as compensation. A quarter can compensate government and the remaining quarter is earmarked for local community development, whether the amount of the fine is large or small (encouraging a greater frequency rate of convictions). Rural areas/shanty towns and other destitute parts in particular would have every incentive to report; to enforce and to prosecute those who violated litter. This monitors those who caused excessive erosion; deforestation without replanting; who contaminated water sources and land; who poached; who illegally dumped or illegally polluted, whether documenting local infractions of people living there or of major companies. Environmental NGO’s, civic organisations and government environmental justice counsels could provide free legal services; training and environmental/legal education. These would be compensated out of successful prosecutions, so that the poor are not denied the chance at equal legal recourse for environmental justice as the rich. People will also be held personally liable legally for environmental offences. This is not only those that they have directly committed, but also those they witnessed and failed to report or act upon. Such will cure the lethargy and apathy of a multitude of beings that currently are prepared to see any manner of ecological crimes possible.

Besides; why do so few people have such contempt for their planet? What has it ever done to them? How can such apathy and lethargy exist? Why is it so difficult to make the effort to support; subsidise and conserve what is left? Why does it appear so arduous to concentrate it into as few points as possible; to reduce the impact and blemish of human existence upon the alluring natural visage? What difference does it personally make to the consumer if their food is organic or battery? (Oh, the former is healthier; tastier –and more honest about the true cost of the product). However, it makes all the difference in the world to the animal. What difference does it make to the producer or the consumer if materialism is composed of as much recycled waste matter as possible, or not? What difference does it make to the consumer to use renewable, sustainable energy or fossil fuels; when they essentially provide the same function? So; they might as well convert and (Perhaps little –apart from the price. But think of all the difference it makes to the species) That is why our Epoch will favour those Green supporters and causes above all others. If 209

we fail to be moved by the plight of non-humans or of our world; then we really do not deserve to be considered humans; humane; with ethics, principles or anything resembling a conscience or empathy. We shall respect and restore the rights of indigenous populations proven to have a greater land, air and marine management record than their successive modernising interlopers. Nature should be allocated and divided to those who sufficiently respect and venerate her. Those who do not; will be persuaded and receive enlightenment into ecological literacy. Or work off their dishonouring of Terra –or perish!

They moan and berate the requirement to reform but does anyone challenge its necessity? Even the denialists mostly concentrate on cost but there are so many other factors. Cost is but a small part of it. If pollution/ externalities were factored in, the true cost of these products would be far higher. Besides; does anyone willing prefer a polluted environment if they are wealthy enough to reside elsewhere? Do they have any remorseful longings; any languishing or pining for the London smog that blighted the 1960’s or the days before catalytic converters; public smoking bans and leaded petroleum and paint? What price would anyone pay for survival? Paying for the environment after centuries free riding; is a far lower price; than the one our anti Green lobbyists would extract from us, continuation and progressive decay of our world... There are few countries in the world that seem to target the environment to the degree necessary to save the planet aiming to do this. There are few effective organisations as well. But who really takes this issue seriously? When was the last time anybody espoused the green cause in government, who had the authority and then actually managed to sponsor a reform that effectively lasted and attained its objectives?

At the moment laws favour the wealthy and influential most of whom; -even those with flowery rhetoric; are ardent champions of the status quo of globalisation and the current materialist world order. Many have profited to some extent from the planet. Legislation currently persecutes the rich to little effect. Many pay only token bribes at most, even when the system of justice (universally skewed in favour of the political; the rich; the influential and the connected –in virtually all countries. Just try being poor/marginalised by society or an environmental activist to see this). Under Gaia all species are held equally. We have terraformed and created the most destruction. So naturally the efforts appear considerably more for us, far more visible…

Legislation has to enforce morality where appeals to better nature fail. Alas these are all too often. Animal experimentation targeting so many non-humans is another prime instrument requiring legislative attention. It is curious the speciesism that pervades in law and society –in medical research; in politics and elsewhere. So often the interests of other species ought to be paramount are silent or marginalised. Incidentally for example; why is ethical clearance regarded for students and those proposing tests that in any capacity

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concern humans –requiring voluntary consent etc. –even to fill in some stupid survey? Often nothing of the sort is applicable to commercial research/testing etc. concerning other species. We would propose that clearance for any experiment should consist of a committee –academic/NGO/business/legal/public/political –but at least one environmental/ species rights protection defendant. They would assess on the economic/ social/ medical/ commercial/ survival necessity for the experiment –compared to the physical/ environmental;/ psychological; emotional/mental harm of the test subject. This may be the only fair way with which we can ensure corporate social responsibility and animal treatment/ experiments are “humane” Experiments would only prescribe to those absolutely necessary for which human or artificial/technology surrogates cannot be derived but as painless as possible.

This is the purpose of the legislation in this chapter –to address several of the most pressing environmentalist causes. At the moment only, a few protesters who are valiantly trying to make a difference; seek this. But they lack power. The only way forward for us to an Ecological Age is to prioritise our planetary environment, in front of all other objectives –even economic growth. This means placing an ever-greater value on the environment in order to prevent waste wherever possible. Others berate the cost. But there is so much that we could do for potential scale economies that we do not elect to do, that would only benefit us. Land itself needs to reflect its true worth. For example real estate and land zoning even higher valuations for greater biodiversity/environmental value. Industry and mines would be penalised based on ecological degradation. User charges in electricity and water need to reflect its true value. The current system where governments provides subsidies below cost for fossil fuels; highly polluting industries and virtually nothing to sponsor a green economy; not only violates efficiency; moral objectivity; cost and equity concerns. It contravenes the user pays principle but fails to reflect other opportunity costs –scarcely reflecting truths. The tax system needs to be radically transformed to place ever greater weight to the environment/conservation status.

Legislation is clearly necessary to protect our planet. It seems that people will do anything for profit, even torture other living creatures. However; if legislation were to guarantee animals the same rights to hygiene, exercise, space, adequate nutrition, the rights to privacy; not to be enslaved; to enjoy their life; liberty and the pursuit of happiness that so many constitutions profess as being the highest ideals of human achievement; that laws profess to achieve. Hypocritically they would protest it as essential for most humans. If it is condoned by the majority of the world for humans; then it should be condoned globally for other species. What is the difference? An example of this torture refers to driving in nails in trees to hang advertising signs to spare paying rates. An example of this advertising roof cleaning of all things, nailed to trees outside my residence. Again; for these notices and junk mail there can be no justification. It must be purged. Where people have no 211

compunction about littering, nailing plants, felling trees; allowing enslavement and commercial/pharmaceutical exploitation of animals and allow other species to suffer; they equally deserve to be purged.

Where humans cannot devise anything better; aesthetics should be governed by exemplars such as the quintessential master imager, artificer and artist –Gaia. If something works, do not interfere and mess it up. Do not stuff up something unless you have the potential to improve it –enhance its value; potential and capacity –at existing cost. The environment will be chosen as it never before has to occupy the sacrosanct place and presence it deserves in the hearts of us all. No more will private property rights be permitted to squander and extract resources without any sense of environmental sustainability and the preservation of our planetary ecosystem. No more will public property and reserves be allowed to be encroached by development, with significant penalties to those who have infringed including confiscation of assets. We have to prioritise environmental initiatives so legislation comprehensively adds environmental awareness; concern; education; welfare and protection to other areas. Examples include education, health, transport, technology, commerce (How to Reform), agriculture (organic); industry, electricity (renewable) and water conservation; waste (recycling); governance; defence (Warfare Mentality); production and consumption

Legislation will therefore not distinguish between species. In the absence of reliable/ thorough communications between humans and all living species plant; animal; or otherwise; there is nothing to refute the fact that they might be our intellectual/ emotional spiritual/psychological/religious equals. For all we know; the Gods in their animal forms may have got it accurate. Or perhaps; they are superior to us. But we are the ones foolish enough to complicate and stress our lives with the responsibilities; hassles and turmoil of the strife laden modern world; as self-appointed curators and harvesters... Perhaps the sign of other species being better off; is that they needn’t work nearly as hard... What other species too; invented boredom? What other species decided to make life so brimming with stress and strife?

Current legislation needs to be reviewed and to be updated in order to incorporate future and current technological developments. This is so people and companies have every incentive and compulsion to favour more environmental and cost efficient; sustainable solutions to human consumption; production, research and experiments. Examples of this; include: transport whose outdated Acts specifically ban electric vehicles. They only permit petroleum guzzling vehicles on the roads, especially in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. That doesn’t even cover South America; Asia and the rest of Africa. These currently ban environmental quality standards not just for transport but also individually; for commerce and for industry. Parking lots and petrol stations and garages need to have

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car charging points –similar to those of yacht marinas. Electric cars are not only cleaner; they are quieter and cheaper to run; than the spiralling and fluctuating costs of petroleum.

Legislation could be enacted to ensure greater responsibility is placed for the disposal of waste and recycling is placed on the producer and the consumer; rather than the government. This induces the free rider and moral hazard problems. They could follow the ‘Take Back Principle” which compels producers to recycle products –take them back. Corporations, especially multi-national would be penalised for their waste. It is up to them to dispose and recycle their waste/become eco-friendlier. They can to decide whether or not to penalise their consumer or not –for the environmental impact tax. More countries could adopt the glass bottle deposit idea. Depositors could receive a small percentage of the costs refunded; in exchange for returning the glass bottle. We should writhe and boycott any firm or government that refuses to take the environment seriously and to present us with alternatives. We should ostracise those, even our own family –who hypocritically carp on about cost. but leave so many technological devices operating –draining electricity from televisions to computers; DVD, CD and video players; microwaves; kettles; stoves; toasters. These still drain power when plugged into the mains through the socket. Pool pumps and geysers could be on timers. We could penalise the manufacturers of any electric powered gadget or appliance that only provide standby mode rather than being able to switch a product off. Products should switch off when not in use –like lights after ten–fifteen minutes at most.

Judicial sentences and infringements of the Charter of Flora/Fauna Emancipation and other environmental legislation could match the crime. The culprit will be forced to cleanse up the ecological mutilation that they themselves –or on whose behalf they represent, inflicted. For example; the concept of community service to ecological desecrators; the extension of concepts such as community justice tribunals –stoning offenders for their sacrilege against the planet and publicly making them flounder/choke etc. in their own garage; like the degenerates these desecrators are. There shall be no exceptions to laws. Both high and low in rank or stature must comply. For when it comes to the environment no single mortal, nation or company can justify elevation above the rest. No one has a right to toxify the environment irrevocably – No one shall have the right to enslave another species and subject them to vivisection or other callous experiments in the name of testing consumer and medical products; without the consent of that species This could only be granted if we learn how to communicate with them. Enfranchise the sentient members of other species. And disfranchise those humans who are incapable or unwilling to understand and accept their responsibilities to the planet and the laws of the world in addition to the social covenant. There are always human options –more scientifically; medically and otherwise compatible, enjoying financial and legal protection

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in most countries. Those protected would be therefore less susceptible to commercial exploitation than that of other species.

They will be made to pay for everything they have wrought, every profit they have extracted at our and the world we live in’s expense. Violators of noise; sound; light; energy; chemical; air; water and other forms of environmental pollution that is avertable and they have done nothing about; will be especially targeted and prosecuted. No more will the environment be permitted to be legally exploited without regard for biodiversity; conservation; efficiency and sustainability. Anyone who receives any resource extraction permit/licence –agricultural, mineral, timber –plant, fishing rights etc. will have to face continuous annual inspections for ecology consequences/renewal and conditional permission to continue based upon this. Companies will have to compensate for any damage done to surrounding terrain; replant or replenish any resources harvested several fold. The banning of junk mail all commercial companies who inundate the place will receive boycotting; punitive sanctions and fines; along with bad publicity. They will receive this. Free community newspapers will be restricted in the quantity of junk supplements.

Promotion of sustainable commercial legislation is not politically impossible, provided you can resist the lobbyists. Those who claim that it will cause hardships to their industries are easily refutable. The example of catalytic converters in vehicles to reduce carbon monoxide triumphantly shows that it is not impossible. Why can it not work with other options? It is not the consumers who are the problem. Most don’t deliberately demand the expensive; earth-snuffing world. We participate for the most part because we accept it as normal –the convenience…. Because the so-called market doesn’t provide more ecological and organic based alternatives, despite potential demand. So much for vaunted consumer sovereignty, when we are presented with few choices to live sustainably. Even the rich have to pay dearly for a purer environment. Unfortunately; difficulty already exists in enforcing existing legislation. Although the clean ecosystem often receives the lowest priority of the armed forces; judicial/ administrative or legal enforcement. Although with all the violators; the source of potential revenue alone is phenomenal. What do you know about the efficaciousness of a punishment or any experiment, if you cannot relate or communicate with that species? How can we even remotely identify with another species –unless we experience it?

If we empower the existing police forces of the world; the armed forces we may have a chance. For this is nothing more than the last definitive war –the war to save our planet… and empower communities, the youth; NGO’s; academics and those devoted. This is while removing the publicity, tax incentives, support/subsidies corporates get for destroying our futures. We could establish additional rangers and cohorts expressly devoted to enforcing environmental law. Choking offenders littering with their own litter –stuffing their houses

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with the same litter tenfold –or even a hundredfold. We ought to undertake anything that might have the prospects of actually working. Vigilante justice with the power to fine and empower the community to arm the environmentalists against those who fight anything to do with the environment. There are always solutions to enforce legislation and ensure justice. The most virile and potent is to enable those who seek to enforce the protection of Earth against all blasphemers and accursed; to do so, allowing other legal resources to be deployed elsewhere…

Waste/ Refuse Discharge Act (Public Health and Sanitation) I:

“No refuse; pollutants; waste; offal or garbage –including solids and liquids from any commercial; individual household; industrial/ academic/ NGO/ public/ religious/ cultural/ agricultural activity or transport shall be allowed to be discharged into any waterway; water source or ocean –nor shall any individual/ collective human excrement/ waste be permitted to taint any such source –whether an organisation; individual or settlement...”

Legislation would make recycling compulsory where possible and economically feasible. Utilisation of new resources would not only be restricted; they would be subject to an additional surcharge plus an environmental replacement cost. They have to quadruple and replace any potential resource used i.e. replant that same species etc...

Garbage would also be subject to mandatory recycling to compress landfills –penalising excess bags as they do in the United Kingdom. Rates would be divided into separate charges for water/electricity and garbage disposal with a fee per bag/ can charged. It includes reductions on all three for those who lower their eco-impact –i.e. water conservation/energy renewable and for recycling more.

We also need to take simple basic measures to prevent further erosion to our ancient monuments, (perhaps surround it by a glass case_; if we value the achievements of our historical forebears. Ancient monuments suffered from pollution and human impact/ weathering include the Sphinx at Giza and the Colossi of Memmon in Luxor; the Parthenon in Athens and those stained from London’s nefarious smog. The efforts of acid rain alone in disinterring and decomposing some of our greatest treasures of the world’s cultural heritage; has had more impact at times; than the effects of Chronus himself.

Therefore; we could avoid using water resources and vacant land/parks/street as waste receptors. Get the community to monitor for infractions and violations and either issue citizens arrests or report to roaming teams of inspectors; eco enforcers and environmental health monitors.

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Air pollution would be improved via a public smoking ban. This prohibits smoking in designated public places –including schools and universities/ hospitals/ parks/ shopping malls, public and imperial offices/ facilities. Clubs/ Restaurants/ hotels/ ships and airports/ harbour terminals need separate smoking and non-smoking facilities

Add pollution monitoring stations throughout urban and rural areas –especially in industrial/ commercial/ agricultural zones along with ecological monitoring and inspection facilities. The results should be publicly broadcast in mainstream media sources and government rates bills. Electrical energy utility bills would mention the percentage of renewable energy; products would mention biodiversity/recyclable etc…

Governments could prioritise the environment far more as has been consistently repeated throughout this treatise. For example they could make it a condition of aid provided, as could more NGO’s. They could award procurement tenders to those companies/groups that are not only the most technically competent but also the most committed to corporate social responsibility. In contrast to what many think, this extends to the preservation of the environment through efficiency measures. They could finance it through many environmental incentives whilst removing subsidies to existing departments/Parastatals; projects; public and private sector companies and services. The exception would be unless they sought to achieve reasonable environmental costs –changeable every year, renewable upon satisfying such conditions. They must be more than carbon neutral! Neutrality is not enough to postpone the consequences. Why are so many people neutral towards the environment –even indifferent? And yet they are obsessed about their health and diet. They will often go to such fanatical efforts, even undergo prodigious medical pain to stave off their inevitable (often self-induced problems). Yet they are missing one factor that more than ever determines their potential to life; health and prosperity. This is frequently something they are never prepared to do anything about –in order to save it and extend its revitalising and healing properties the natural environment of Gaia. Diet, exercise, hygiene, fresh oxygen; pure water, sanitation, biodiversity; a healthy climate and terrain. These things are not artificial technological/ manmade constructs but organic –presents from the wellspring of life itself from Earth. Why make such an effort, when besides it is completely pointless? We are just frittering it away?

Additionally; instead of cutting down on public transport/ urban mass transit systems in favour of belching; gas guzzling vehicles –a reformed Age of Globalisation or the advocated Eco–Revolution we need; could bring them back. This would further reduce the carbon production process –long with other toxic gasses. Trains; trams and busses along with separate lanes for both them and cycles as in Amsterdam, would defer the pollutant 216

output of cities engulfing the health of so many. This is especially true in the Second and Third Worlds which lack this advantage of the multitude of routes –despite being healthier; safer; more cost efficient; useful etc. Private or public is not the real issue (contrary to the ideologies of most economists) but that they provide an environmentally defensible solution to the problems of rapid urbanisation. It would help the public –especially the poor; elderly and students, too while others gain from the competition. It could also be provided in rural areas. It could be financed by further enforcement of environmental legislation violated by so many humans. For example: railways are far more efficient carriers from an emissions perspective than the equivalent of the many battalions deployed on the highways. Thousands of trucks –each with the capacity to take one container; yields a far higher consumption in petroleum and other pollutants than the alternative of railways.

Further points that could reduce environmental damage include:

If we must use coal fired power plants (and government/ private sector should justify why this is necessary) they could install carbon capture and sequestion technology. As humans we should not automatically gravitate towards old and tested technology –to blithely and blindly just accept things from the public and private sector. But scrutinise each to argue is this socially; environmentally; technically feasible? What are the likely costs of this; if any?

All Parastatals and public sector departments could be forced to reach annual eco targets to improve their performance; reputation and environmental awareness. Or face being fired. Then all would soon find ways to reduce their ecological impact/ footprint, whether in recycling; energy conservation, awards, afforestation, gardens etc. Only when the government, academia and Parastatals take this environmentalism seriously, will individuals and society –and taxpayers follow. Only then; when the private sector can see how much profit and publicity they can gain from this; will they be willing to participate and inject the investment which they are not utilising at this moment.

Civilian contact with nuclear radiation should be minimised. Lower speed limits on certain roads, especially in the Second and Third World;

would help to conserve petroleum and its polluting effects. All new taxis and others applying for a renewal could follow the example of New

York City which bans non-electric or hybrid vehicles. We would add gardens to every social/community,cultural, industrial, commercial,

agricultural, academic, government, private, religious and nongovernmental sector workplace wherever possible –either allotments and greenhouses to be fiscally autonomous. Or as places of therapeutic retreat; contemplation and a way for

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people to personally do their part for the environment as well as shading parking lots. Provide public transport subsidies to those without free car parking facilities…

Essentially; the point of legislation is to provide a means of regulating the excesses that a world ungoverned by a political and social contract. The world now needs an environmental contract – enforceable, pragmatic, self-motivating and motivating; to check the environmental excesses; seldom averted, reduced and reversed. It needs a charter to enable the emancipation of all species that deserve it; whilst improving the welfare for pets; farm animals and others. Improving their welfare; would also improve our consumer health; choice; product information and quality; empowering consumers and producers by enhancing their sovereignty. Laws may in themselves be insufficient to motivate ingrained human habits and considerations of price etc. But at least they provide some means of enforced legislative security, stability and certainty to help those who actually do want to make the right decision.

Besides; what is fundamentally wrong with the concept of conserving nature and enshrining these principles to be one of the founding bastions of law? Why not a tenet as valid as equality of treatment before the law –impartiality? Why not aspire to save other animals or plant species not just our own; or our planet and its biota where we can? Whether through protecting far more areas with sufficient resources; legislation and the swift enactment of justice; the reforms proposed; making ecology as sacrosanct as religion; why not try? Whether physically restoring the damage we have wrought; whether it involves revising the tax code; changing our philosophies from one of human centric and materialist/ transient to planetology/ecological literacy as the Way of Gaia ordains; whether changing our economic structure or our very psychology itself, why not act? Is it not best to do what we can? We can see if there is the slightest chance to atone for all our mistakes that has precipitated the many natural disasters and catastrophes that the world has faced –and continues to endure.

The Tax Code:

This could be revised for preferential tax breaks to favour renewable energy along with allowing accelerated depreciation allowances; offsetting the cost of renewable energy. Both the Tax System/ Code and the Investment Codes need to reflect the protection of the environment by valuing it sufficiently more –with greater incentives; than polluting. So many ignore the environment. And yet most people fear the consequences of not paying taxes, one of the most respected –or feared instruments of governance. Its all pervasiveness grants it considerable lassitude using existing capacity. Given how little interest; any of these polluting companies appear to have in their own future; in efficiency –ecologically and from profits, then world governments could easily ignore their lobbying

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power; terminate import tariffs/ export subsidies/quotas and tax concessions –other benefits to the polluters. They then could redirect them to one’s that their constituent members favour (or will favour). They could ban exceptions for grandfathering allowing exceptions for older; more pollution emitting existing established facilities; plants and technology. This only encourages those unscrupulous to eke out their life expectancy and delay reform/investment. After all; why pay them to enrich themselves, protract inefficiency, ignore consumer sovereignty and –eradicate all sentient; organic life forms on this planet, which if they continue; they soon will?

Chapter 17: Ecotourism –Lowering The Human Impact.

Is it possible to coexist with Mother Earth harmoniously? Is our existence possible –with minimal collateral damage to other species and the natural environment; whilst retaining the aspects of science; culture; knowledge and civilisation itself? Is it possible rather than revert as a species to a more Primeval Age? As this chapter will seek to verify; reform is not impossible. We can minimise the human impact in so many of our activities, whether in reforming our judicial, legislative and taxation/ trade systems; our faiths to incorporate a sense of environmental awareness and responsibility; our economy and society. One prime way which could provide the means of enhancing global commerce is to promote sustainable ecotourism with local partnership initiatives. The only way to persuade the vast majority of people, especially the poor; to see the sense in conserving rather than pillaging and raping; that the benefits are worth it.

For example; we could focus on the accumulated jobs and value-added economic benefits accruing from eco-tourism. Conserving nature is an extremely cost-effective means of local economic empowerment. It supports environmental conservation theory from manipulating people’s willingness to place a value and pay to appreciate their environment and the trove of splendiferous wonders/ species that it contains. It has to involve the private sector and of communities. It cannot just be the function of the state to be responsible for conserving the environment alone. Tourism (especially ecotourism) naturally finances the conservation of what is left of some of our finest, most pristine and majestic natural wonders left. Communities could receive non-transferable property rights in partnership with local conservation authorities, enabling them to benefit from local management or ownership, responsibility and control. They could divide the proceeds 219

among all to benefit to permanently resolve the tragedy of the commons. This is where because no one has a self-interest incentive to conserve, with open access and moral hazard; the landscape becomes permanently maimed and pulverised.

It might also make sense not to separate tourists from the community themselves and from conservation authorities to establish links rather than disassociate. It entails establishing partnership with international. It tries to make connections in an attempt to psychologically understand each other and the need to preserve the environment. At the moment, psychologically conservation and ecotourism are more rooted as attitudes in park conservation agencies and tourists. Now locals could develop this in mutual sympathy and symbiosis so that they do not resort to ever more desperate measures. I.e. pilfering, poaching and pressing for land claims restitution….

Involving the masses in conserving the natural world by appealing to their sense of self interest. This emphasises showing how they can personally profit and benefit from it is the most effective method. They could even profit from restocking supplies –in aquaculture, game farming; mussel reseeding etc. It makes sense not to pillage all resources. A dearth and extinction will only affect those poor and dependent more than the rich. They could receive training and education from conservation officials. A system of community monitors granted training and receiving conservation as a form of supervision and regulation is far more efficacious than any system of centrally appointed environmental inspectors or regional conservation authorities. Locals are clearly better at enforcement and being able to persuade others to comply. This contrasts with obeying some external entity, clearly resented being perceived as an outsider. Partnership between academics, NGO’s, the municipality, conservation authorities (on behalf of central government) in addition to the community might facilitate a greater sense of trust and cooperation. It may result in establishing belief and commitment to the environmental cause. This means commonly united; rather than the existing approach where the marginalised; the poor; the socially ostracised and many others feel currently. The hostility/apathy directed towards those trying to conserve natural wildernesses is often perceived as meddlesome interference.

This approach is even more efficacious if it entails establishing links with those most influential in the community. If one can persuade the local chiefs/tribal authorities/ religious and civic/community/ business leaders of the merits of ecological conservation rather than destruction; than the effort is already halfway successful in terms of implementing a continuous solution. This is especially if reinforced by education; publicity; awards; grants; field trip research benefits (and you allow them to share in the fame and credit). This follows a personally observed effective tactic of achieving real change upon human society, for practically anything. Persuade those that are most influential/

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charismatic, capable and willing to act. Convince those who demonstrate ambition/ power/influence of the merits of your cause/idea –especially in so far as it relates to them and can benefit them personally as well as those they represent. They will willingly and enthusiastically help to propagate the message/action/idea, especially if it costs them little but time and effort. Even if they do nothing but appear to implicitly or openly endorse it, the masses themselves will make the policy effective. They do it; because those in positions of power/authority; those who are charismatic or with influence endorse it so… Therefore; it must be right! However; the permit system should be based merely on helping the poor. It should not be to aid those already earning external income sources (excluding welfare grants). The depleted oceans and game areas lack sufficient resources for all to exploit. Hence permits shall be prohibited from being distributed to outsiders –indigent/means tested.

Fisheries too could be modified to prevent overfishing being exploited, to be sustainable –to ban Bycatch through the tradable permit and quota system. Harvest consumptions need monitoring to avoid the perils of overexploitation. Hence restrictions preventing catches below a minimum weight/size to protect undersized fauna. (You would not slay a human infant or chick or other baby to no purpose! Why should aquatic life or game be any different?) The role of the community monitors could be to enforce these regulations and receive daily catch reports to investigate these. People would only have permission to catch game/fishing within these restrictions. One tradable permit per complying family –or face social exclusion from the benefits. The advantages of the species catch report monitoring is that it can facilitate ecological intelligence and research. This assesses the potential damage to species If quantities are limited. People could have the benefits explained to them of charging greater prices for fewer resources of a greater size, averting smaller ones (simple supply and demand economics). They would also have to work less –so they benefit. The species; environment; he entire ecosystem definitely benefits This is following South Pacific fisheries reserves specially if certain zones and times are excluded to facilitate breeding/ natural and human aided replenishment).

Certain ecotourism principles to endorse include the concept of sustainability (Haun). They extend to that of preserving not desecrating the very place so benevolent towards them. The environment could become profitable for its scarcity, its beauty and other potentially marketable qualities. If people in all continents follow the example of my South African homeland and our neighbours; in pursuing environmental conservation, especially through tourism. However; these are all fundamentally conditional upon avoiding the curse of overdevelopment. All natural wildernesses must be preserved from human intrusion beyond the minimal necessary to establish the ecotourism base. The community can benefit enough from it without poaching. Coastal Protection Zone Bills could protect the shoreline from zealous overdevelopment. No construction would be placed within one mile 221

(perhaps extendable given the place of global warming which potentially threatens far more than that) in order to prevent coastal erosion. Dunes could be rehabilitated. There is more value to be commercially gained from an unspoiled beach, which hasn’t been zoned off for private luxury residential/commercial development than from many an alternative. Any who intrude upon this, will have their edifices demolished and the fine to be the equivalent of the market valuation as a minimum. This can finance even more environmental protection. Good beaches will become even scarcer in the future with the flooding and rising sea levels of climatic change. It makes sense from an ecotourism perspective; to preserve as many as possible from being ruined.

Examples of ecotourism in addition to sustainable fishing (selling the catch or the catch and release fly and game fishing, beaches, horse riding, accommodation, game walks, parks, mokoro trips, canoeing and other ways, all with minimal environmental disturbance and degradation. All camps could be reconfigured to focus on eco-design incorporating low emitting diodes, solar panels with lights; geysers; fridges; mobile and technology charging points. Others could add water reduction measures; recycling facilities and even afforestation, indigenous species etc. Campsites could have garbage and effluent buried. Cables could be insulated and buried so as to not mar, disfigure or scar the wilderness. Conservation is about minimising the impact of humanity while maximising their experience and interaction/appreciation of the non-artificial part of their planet. That is why camps will be banned from maximising sound disturbances –in the vocal enhancement syndrome. Lights will also be reduced so that the cosmic majesty and serenity of the world around us can actually be appreciated. The most ecologically sensitive/pristine parts of the planet, we will reduce vehicle access. Perhaps either place public transport or a series of non-polluting; renewable energy powered safari/other transport –i.e. adapted Land Rover vehicles for game drives etc.

There is always a way to further mitigate our impact as humans, even for existing areas that are ecologically fragile as well. For example; dunes could have wooden walkways to protect them. Forests could have aerial canopies and walkways along with camps. There only make use of naturally falling wood in their construction and maintenance as much as possible. Any plant/animal species disturbed in tourism in its construction or continuously in the process; will also be protected and replaced with replanting/substitutes etc. Sewerage could be offset with gravity wells. Private Lodges could contribute a proportion of the funds to offset any potential externalities to a specifically endowed fund for natural conservation and rehabilitation.

People will pay for the opportunity for unique experiences. The environment could provide these for visiting researchers and tourists seeking something different –o especially finance these efforts in less developed countries where funding is scarce. Those genuinely

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interested could have various ways to get involved with targeted marketing in order to promote the chance to save species; participate in conservation research/ close encounters/ breeding/protection. It is not just about the need to preserve the Amazon, Congo and Indonesian rainforests or the Iguacu, Victoria and Niagara Falls, as breathtaking as they might be. Even geological formations and unusual geographic formations could receive attention –for visits and conservation. This is not just spectacular scenery and magnificent examples of our living ecological assets, most radiant of other species that exist; If it is possible for the Grand Canyon; the multi-coloured earth present in Mauritius and Quebrada de Huahunca in Argentina and the fossils of the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng in the province of Mpumalanga in South Africa/natural rock formations of Pike’s Peak and the Garden of the Gods in Colorado; it is possible for others. For ultimately; ecotourism consists of alerting as many people as possible to the necessity of eco-tourism. It invokes all to appreciate and value the world around them and to do almost anything to ensure that it ultimately survives…

But why should conservation be constrained to the elite? In a new world and universe we will devote far more resources and terrain to physically conserve the environment –once we reach other planets and set aside entire territories as parks. Once humans have moved all that contaminates the surface below; in space or permanently; once we reduce surfeit population –seven billion people is far too many. Then all can be tourists, enough for all to share, once it has been rehabilitated. Those species and terrain most endangered –could follow the examples of the gorillas of Rwanda; Antarctica; Aldabra in the Seychelles and the Galapagos Islands in restricting the daily number of visitors. This is to reduce the psychological as well as the physically destructive impact that humans have upon other fauna and flora. It is better to contain this wherever possible from the principle of defending biodiversity; rather than to let it disappear irrevocably forever. More islands and coastlines/offshore could be devoted as marine reserves, where fishing is either sustainable or restricted. This means especially banning humans from interfering with aquatic life’s spawning period and grounds. Coral reefs could be rehabilitated to preserve the coral polyps and prevent permanent moorings to prevent damage. People will pay the price to cherish experiences such as these combined with scuba diving, submarine trips (if eco powered and silenced) and swimming… It is worth paying the price and making the effort to endorse these –even for coral reefs –as the example of the Great Barrier Reef. This was estimated in 1980 alone to contribute at least $ 1 billion to the Australian economy (recent estimates exceed $10 billion). How could destroying a natural resource such as this for a once off profit; possibly be worth as much as the potential revenue that could be acquired from conserving it?

It makes sound fiscal sense in addition to enhancing employment and sustainable development prospects in often historically and currently economically marginalised 223

regions. It is prudent to revise the tax and investment code to reduce the bureaucracy and provide fiscal incentives involved in establishing ecotourism; organic products and other pro-environmental approaches. It makes sense from a social and producer welfare maximisation process as well. Why would we desire to complicate any process that can facilitate the rehabilitation of our planet? We can establish that humans have a genuine and viable commitment/devotion to their planet; enough to finance the world’s conservation according to its scarce and irreplaceable; irrevocable process.

The thing about the human race is that collectively we are always looking to simplify our lives; to make things easier. This also apples to the environmental conservation in particular ecotourism. If people see that something is likely to work, that it has the potential to succeed or to be profitable, they will unleash their talents, creativity, time, passion and energy to making it work to becoming a reality. Even space is developing the capacity for tourism with Richard Branson and Virgin Galactic. If the information; resources –but crucially the legislative, community and general psychological support exist transparently and are easy to access and implement; then more efforts might be possible. In addition; If it is empirically shown to be effective; then more of us might be encouraged to actively endorse and pursue this. This can be affirmed as the many triumphant businesses and flourishing community case studies as means of resolving poverty; facilitating economic development and conservation simultaneously exhibit. Limiting the human impact can be economically viable –enhancing efficiency/reducing costs for tourism. It improves the future of both many humans and nonhuman species…

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Chapter 18: How to Reform!

The only way to prompt businesses to reform environmentally is if you appeal to their self-interest. Cynical –but true. If you can find a way to help them economise and become more cost efficient; spelling out ways to enhance their profits, they are more likely to listen rather than protesting. The way to do this is to persuade them that the greatest market of them all; -the environment remains open for competitors. Admittedly; people do not reform merely by appealing to their self-interest. “Corporate social responsibility” makes good publicity but is secondary to the needs of commerce and the profit balance sheet. Nor; do they like the impression of being coerced into compliance with regulation. It is better that it is chosen voluntarily and there is incentive to do so. Nor do they like admitting they were wrong or have made mistakes –or are “evil” in choosing the polluting way. Appealing to the need to reform from an economic perspective –profitable; efficient, pragmatic; publicity –improving corporate efficiency –in resolving energy poverty for example; -and contacting the CEO’s and directors directly... is far more efficacious. They will spurn others protesting outside their headquarters; calling for nationalisation; regulation and punishment. Most companies only pay lip service to the notion of corporate social responsibility. But they are not averse to being approached in the spirit of cooperation and partnership as one has discovered. This is especially if governments make it a condition of their contracts/tenders and consumers seek it. The silent majority can really exercise their sovereignty; marketing and opinion pools. They can express preferences for environmental change –especially through technology; social platforms and the media. Publicity and the chance to improve peak performance is always a winning, unbeatable argument.

As with anything; if there is sufficient willpower, any criticism and argument can be debated and countered. If there is any opposition –it can be surpassed. There are ways to persuade reform or to circumvent and compel it; if the public; the companies themselves –and or the leadership/media of the world; are prepared to try. A Green Revolution is feasible given current scholarship; technology and human capability. To those who view

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these achievements and reforms as impossible; they can be reminded of anything formerly considered as impossible in human history; but was eventually made possible. Consider the Abolition of Slavery; the extension of civil rights; suffrage and the franchise; the repelling of apartheid; universal communications; the first lunar landing, all once considered hopeless...

However; it is astonishing how so many cannot see; what is clearly in their best interest. Alas; people have to be deprived of something (i.e. a clean environment) that they once knew and valued somewhat; in order to appreciate what remains and understand what could be. Then they will act –and often before companies will reform. If companies cannot; then why should we bother so much? This treatise can only make suggestions for them to improve their environment; streamline processes more dynamically, flexible and efficiently and minimise expenses. It can only reform those who wish to be reformed and identify the necessity of it. Unfortunately; the government and communities alone cannot resolve this issue. It has to involve the companies responsible for such detritus originally and even now. They could think of the improvements in efficiency; the potential cost savings and improved economies of scale and the enhanced reputational benefits from further publicising. Those who do behave responsibly “green” could publicise it more. This sets a corporate/NGO/government/academia/individual example to receive greater advertising and support. Why should triumphs not be capitalised upon? The media needn’t only target the gloom of doom. However; it cannot be merely about publicity. There has to be meaningful reforms. The vast budget proportions of budget allocated to Public Relations is evidently better spent on the following reforms.

So; how can companies reform?

They could install solar panels on their roofs; insulation; wind turbines in their parking lots to generate electricity power by generators; saving on energy costs. Investing in alternative and renewable energy sources on this energy impoverished continent and country only makes sense. I.e. in order to conduct business during a power cut, when your business rivals/ competitors cannot. Recycling also makes sense too to lower costs and to get more out of finite resources. This gains more profit while minimising expenditure on resources. Cloakrooms could have waterless urinals. Rainwater cisterns could reduce dependency on external precipitation. Companies could even follow the example of one store who did all these and recycled the deep-fried chip oil with used car oil to make a biofuel used to reheat boilers to quote the example of Wal-Mart.

They could introduce motion sensor activated lights –and low emission security lighting at night. To reduce power ensure all computers/ electric equipment is switched off and on –on a timer circuit to save costs...

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Companies could promote carpooling/ public transport subsidies or the use of company bicycles to replace car allowances –in favour of those who don’t wish/ do not have access to driving –also frees up parking spaces...

Don’t print annual reports etc. Place resources online. Email manuals/ documents to customers to save paper –instead of printing them wasting paper. Its better to print that which is necessary and archive things in secure electronic databases.

Why not utilise existing technology more effectively? Videoconferencing not only saves on corporate costs of hosting –transport and refreshment costs, but the opportunity cost is far less time spent to establish/ reach such an event. It can also accommodate those of different time zones and countries. However; for this treatise; it also saves on the environmental costs of emissions spewing out into the atmosphere from planes/cars// trains and busses.

When purchasing appliances –energy efficient/eco-friendly devices will save long term finances. E.g. Idea of a black box to assess the energy consumption levels of each employee/ workspace/area. It can monitor usage... in order to reduce costs and emissions.

Vending machines etc. could be switched off, especially at night; granted that most machines such as soft drinks/ crisps/ confectionary etc. can survive a few hours without being on, as could products often on standby to reduce costs.

Afforestation to car parking lots would help to provide cars with shade and offset the CO2 carbon footprint concentration. Headquarter offices and sites with available land or internal courtyards could provide grass/ponds/plants/ benches for employees and clients/ patrons to rest at lunch hour as well as improving the quality of environment. Future developments would have to incorporate these features as well as those mentioned throughout this tome before granted construction permission.

Companies could turn off exterior lights especially during the day and most nocturnal lights. They could replace others with low emitting diodes/ solar/ other recyclable powered. To not do so; could receive financial penalties.

Local communities/ cities/ universities etc. could make their facilities eco efficient and then hire them out to other conscious users with less capacity to implement environmental changes E.g. schools could hire kitchens out to local takeaways –recycle the deep-fried chip fat etc...

Recycling drives and facilities could be established in every community. Let us use what we have in terms of metals etc. before committing the planet to further human polluting pressures/ activities. This means encouraging the community and the poor to sort out through the trash (with protective gear), encouraging art etc. Government; NGO and parastatal tenders to private companies could demand that the materials used are sustainable and recycled –as much as pragmatically possible.

In an attempt to prompt companies to favour recycled material, a surcharge could be placed on all new resources (non-recyclable).

We could all be encouraged to compress our garbage and be charged fees on a per bag basis in an attempt to reduce our garbage impact on landfills.

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Ban plastic bags only provide cloth/ other alternatives. They have to pay considerable amounts for. Ban plastic drink bottles and straws entirely, encourage glass with returnable deposits as in the past.

Would it not make sense for companies themselves to acquiesce from an economic point of view; a directive curbing more than one perhaps two layers of packaging/ wrapping, unless the item is particularly fragile/ sensitive and really merits it? Retailers could face a surcharge for this in addition to excess junk mail exceeding one small A4 pamphlet/ leaflet?

Companies and governments could work in partnership by offering scholarships; grants; bursaries and research support. This means collaborating with individuals, schools, universities; communities and each other to identify target markets and products that utilise renewable energy; bio and eco-friendly technology; are organic; or environmentally sustainable –whilst also being profitable. They could promote ideas through Green Innovation awards such as those endorsed by South Africa’s Mail and Guardian Newspaper’s Greening the Future Annual Awards. The reforms and products that have arisen just from the 2013 example alone; prove that the marginal social and private benefits gained from sponsoring in planet conservation methods certainly exceed the costs. Exemplars include GreenABLE which provides the disadvantaged with the potential for revenue from a recycling firm that creates manhole covers and roof tiles profitably; out of discarded printer ink cartridges –on average over 160,00 per month; extending the space available for less recyclable trash. The presenter Ntokozo Mbuli won a Future Leader Award for enhancing the environmental abuse investigation and exposure on the South African state channel broadcasted environmental affairs television programme 50/50. The South African NGO Moving Sushi established the world’s first stereo-imagery East African, coastal reef fish survey without any First World input. In 2014 they seek to do it for West Africa; recognising that the only way to value resources –is to measure its scarcity and to promote maritime exploration as a means of valuing eco conservation. Environmental surveys of all regions and research could help companies to recognise the scarcity of resources. This might restrict activity and price natural resources according to their scarcity/ create renewable aquaculture.

Further examples just from South Africa in 2013 that other companies could adopt if they were serious about the cost savings; economies of scale; market; research and other potential benefits from prioritising the environment first include that of mobile phone retailer Vodacom. It installed nearly 2000 mono-crystalline solar panels on its Cape Town corporate headquarters, the largest in Africa to reduce its carbon emissions by 5% per year. Africa’s prime environmentally friendly hotel: Hotel Verde has regenerative drive elevators. These recycle 30% of energy used; uses geothermal pumping from boreholes for heating and air conditioning; spectral glass, double glazed windows for insulation against unproductive energy being wasted. Toilets; washing machines and landscape/ground

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irrigation based on grey-water reclamation and even occupancy sensors to automatically switch lights; guests have forgotten to switch off at Cape Town International Airport. Resorts throughout the world could endorse this. RisoAfrica conceptualised the world’s first solar powered photocopiers; duplicators and printers. In Durban; 500 poor benefit from converting human waste into recyclable materials –up to 15 tons per day. The NGO Delta created a Youth Environmental Service for up to 100 participants per year in the North West Province –creating community indabas or gatherings on environmental affairs; creating medicinal/ herb and food gardens and voluntary cleaning campaigns.

African Conservation Trust is an example of extending the environment to agriculture. This organically spares species by avoiding toxic pesticides; afforestation; soil cultivation and fallow not erosion; crop rotation and rainwater conservation. The Wildlands Conservation Trust worked to add 300,000 hectares of land –containing over 8000 species of plants -1900 unique to that region. This preserves biodiversity and water in major rivers as catchment sources. Project Rhino KZN worked to involve the community in learning the value of rhino conservation, enforcing measures against poaching through surveillance of 24 game reserves. Wessa Rhino Initiative spent over R174,000 in antipoaching intelligence data to help prosecute in 25 cases. Operation Rhino –a SA success story from 40 in 1894 –to over 600 by 1960’s unfolded in Umfolozi Game Reserve to protect them

“Take only photographs –leave only footprints,” –SAN National Parks motto

Governments could sponsor exhibitions of ecological goods and publicise the environmental benefits/support with reduced taxes to promote “green” local and foreign direct investment. They could encourage banks to favour green reforms and ensure any new electricity generating power is renewable. Other research may extrapolate from science fiction or from ideas by the public/ books etc. Solar thermal power for instance –uses mirrors to concentrate solar rays to heat fluids or drive a motor via electrolysis. The possibilities include targeting a battery to store solar photovoltaic energy in cells nocturnally; to create the commercial expansion of hydrogen and solar powered vehicles. Dalian technology could convert thermal energy, using a heat pump, from seawater (could also be filtered for bathwater etc. All these ideas and more; are inspired by anyone who wants to be a part of the campaign to save the planet and from humans who do so.

How could the utility of the electricity service be reformed to provide environmental incentives to conserve? Currently, electricity costs do not differ between peak capacity and normal. (I.e. it cannot tell you if you are on low usage or not). Costs do not reflect adequately the externality costs involved –heavier users should pay more per unit. It ignores seasonal variation; time of day and climate for most of the world and it ignores the impact loss of biodiversity. Utilities need to promote more research and development.

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Nor do utility companies adequately encourage energy conservation or the transformation into renewable energy. Many might choose to prefer this; if they could exercise their consumer sovereignty openly. It does not even make economic sense, let alone environmental; to pay the same price regardless of source generated; usage and efficiency. Industry should not receive subsidized electricity. They should pay the market price; as consumers are currently forced too; whether they invest in conservation measures or not. Like abolishing prescription charges this only induces moral hazard; where the companies and utilities have both the incentive and the opportunity of shifting the cost of their transactions onto the public for the current structure. It only provides a disincentive to be efficient with energy and creates shortages in other sectors where it is needed most. Rather than sponsoring cheap electricity, governments would be better encouraging tax-free benefits and other incentives –such as preferential contract/tender treatment. Concentrating on environmental and energy conservation could even provide companies with grants etc. to invest in technology –while penalising others. E.g. via a combination of taxes, standards, quotas; subsidies, tradable emissions permits and transferable credits and punitive legislation for environmental regulatory noncompliance.

In reforming utilities to reduce usage; banks; suppliers and governments –local; provincial and municipal; could do so much more. Existing coal and oil power stations could adopt carbon capture and sequestion technology. Power stations could incorporate cogeneration –which converts 40% of energy often lost through heat; using steam to propagate further electricity and water Green savings bonds could be offered by banks/government or electricity parastatal/local council to promote investments in generating a planet clean power supply. Loans could be offered by the utility companies to sponsor insulation/solar panels/ generators and other eco-friendly, saving initiatives. The customer gets 25% of any future energy savings back in discounted electricity. The supplier gets 50% and the financier –bank/municipality/ company gains 25% in interest and repayment. The aim is to clearly provide an incentive to the consumer and the utility providing such an essential service. Tax credits could be provided or discounts offered per unit of consumed electricity –as United Kingdom utility companies such as Southern Electric currently offer for early payment. Each home and business starting with the richer/middle classes of society could have a black box. These are like those recently invented in the United States; which can assess all temperature/energy/climatic variables and translate that into carbon footprint/ energy / pollutant emission. Appliances could be made more efficient. Globalisation might actually be recalibrated to consider the planet and human consumers

Price, reliability; efficiency and accessibility are all factors in determining energy consumption and production. Producers and consumers will only change if the new source satisfies these requirements more than the older. Why would anyone choose toxic, inept, poorly functioning ways when they could research a brighter, more enduring product/ 230

solution? Apart from the Middle East and other certain OPEC supporters; the net current account; terms of trade; trade balance and economies of most oil dependents –to say the world, would be significantly improved. It would come at the expense of the oil producers (few of which are exactly paradigms of government virtue likely to win any equivalent of the Mo Ibrahim Prize awarded to the best African head of state; for excellent governance; statesmanship and leadership.)

There is a drain on the heartbeat of our biosphere; with all of the energy drained by things left on standby. And yet; short of removing the plug all the technical paraphernalia including computers, DVD’s, CD players, hi fi’s; radios, video machines with both terrestrial and satellite television. Many plugs are left with the switch on, which still uses considerable electricity –and the emissions are still produced. How lazy are some people in merely switching off a light when not necessarily in use? How lazy can they be; in not turning off the switches for kettles; microwaves; ovens and washing machines? Or setting their geyser and pool pumps on a timer? Energy Poverty is not just a social; economic and political problem, it is also an environmental one too. Every time people think about solving the energy crisis, they fail to consider endorsing and sponsoring private sector/ academia/ NGO attempts to renew power sources. They spurn nuclear as far too hazardous and they commit to yet more gas; oil and coal powered plants. When it comes to fuel they favour pure petroleum instead of alternatives such as electric battery; biofuel; solar powered/ hydrogen cell powered. Aside from Chernobyl in 1986; the threat of nuclear energy to humanity and to others has been quarantined. For all its dangers; if properly maintained, nuclear power is still significantly more ecologically advantageous; pragmatic and cost efficient than coal/oil/natural gas-powered facilities

Why too; should they reform?

A water or an electricity shortage cannot be in anyone’s interests. A lack of such resources will cause our modern world to fail! Every one of our towering achievements and every single member of this planetary society will be affected. Therefore; it is worth all these measures and more; otherwise Gaia will thwart us by denying us significant supplies of utilisable water and the sources from which we generate the fuel/ power to move our world. If measures are not taken; it is reasonable to predict by Apollo and the Muses; that in the forthcoming era new wars will be fought. This time it will be over dwindling petroleum resources; coal; minerals but also water –as more and more succumb to desertification; urbanisation and industrialisation. Water could also be conserved. Bath water could be used to irrigate the garden or wash a vehicle. Better yet, where precipitation is certain/sufficiently abundant/predictable, rainwater could be collected in cisterns/ containers for drinking, irrigation and other consumption purposes –attached to buildings; filtered and purified. It can be better to use plants and soil to let it enter the

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hydrological cycle and water table. The community could report pipe leaks and the water service provider would have regular checks. Bathrooms with toilets on automatic flushing could reduce the frequency, convert to manual in some cases. Environmentally; baths are more detrimental in consumption for areas of water shortages –in providing showers only. Even in luxury resorts people will choose the most efficient solution –especially as it is the only solution. Until desertification is solved, it would make sense to conserve energy and undertake more projects nocturnally.

Any company that has ever experienced the poverty energy dormant in Africa can answer that. One only has to look at Eskom and the case of South Africa’s blackouts since 2008, to realise just how dependent the modern world is on electricity Everything is paralysed when a blackout occurs! Dependency = vulnerability! Self-reliance makes perfect business sense, as does minimising costs. Think of it simply. You will have power and the chance to sell, when your neighbouring business rivals don’t! Besides; you could always sell the surplus. This chance to tap into the eco-economy as more and more governments; consumers; media and companies get involved, becomes the fundamental investment chance of a current lifetime, as the new challenge of our era! There are further reasons to reform. It makes sense commercially to preserve biodiversity because of the potential research to companies such as pharmaceutical companies. Traditional demand for exotic plants and animals; handicrafts and furniture alone always generate a demand for natural/organic products. This is one which we will increase. It ensures that it makes sense to replant rare and threatened species of trees; flora and fauna. There are many natural remedies that can be sourced from Gaia. The potential of indigenous and other knowledge that remains to be discovered, as well as that which merely exists, enhances the possibility.

One can further reform to appeal to their desire for publicity. Negative publicity ought to act as a sufficient deterrent, especially as in the case of BP and the Gulf of Mexico oil spills when penalised. However; if we succeed; they are welcome to exploit coverage as much as they wish. If the environment is seriously reformed by companies; for countries like South Africa; power cuts could be a thing of the past. After all; it is already reliant on generators for a decent proportion of time. These combined with uncertain oil prices/spiralling petroleum prices, provide even more incentive to convert and no longer remain enslaved. Plus, it saves long term costs. It reduces the environmental effort. It enhances profits from buying less inputs and streamlines efficiency. There are few; if any negatives; compared to the multiple ones of conventional addiction to oil.

Now what? Environmental Conservation also makes sense geo-politically. Foreign policy and politics of many of the G20 and other influential countries is determined by considerations and enslavement to oil and to petro dollars. It is skewed because of

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globalisation and materialism’s hapless addiction to oil. At the moment; these prop up regimes not exactly worthy of example to emulate. Yet they are naturally endowed with such resources. Foreign policy could be more pragmatically determined, not by issues of fuel, food and resource/strategic security; but by realistic issues of foreign affairs. The Middle East; would not be the prime region virtually featured on global news networks; outside Western Europe and the USA; or the occasional disaster in Asia/Africa. It would not be the source of so many conflicts e.g. The Gulf War; Afghanistan and Iraq. Resources and strategic considerations grant this area too much priority on this planet. We waste too much coverage; time; attention and resources to this region. This skewers the perception of what we as members of the human species perceive as vital, necessary and urgent.

We need to target every vocation. Every citizen must feel empowered by conserving their planet. Every job seeker and job maker should realise that the ecological revolution; is our future new source of jobs. This replaces those outsourced by globalisation and lost in their recession. Every government bureaucrat must realise greater power, prestige and resources – (dear to each bureaucrat’s mind) lies in championing reform and compliance with environmental laws. Every politician must realise that the key interests of their constituents is the environment. The media need to support this. The power of social networking is best utilised in the Ultimate Cause –our planet Gaia; herself!

To summarise; the question is: Have we as a human race failed to accept what we need to do? Have we failed as stewards? Anyone looking at ecological history reasonably can conclude that we have. Therefore, we need to reform (as outlined in Common Sense and Small Steps). Companies need to reform (How to Reform). Realistically; many of the current environmental attacks have wrought little in concessions and only antagonism from the private sector. Yes, the interests of the planet are paramount. But the demand, the supply, the legislation, tax code, consumer markets and consistent government policy prioritises the environment above all factors as the essential welfare for all. The ultimate marketable commodities are more likely to prompt cooperation and change. If stakeholders can see that their companies can only survive and be profitable, winning media; academic; government and popular support, they will espouse the cause. This is all more significant and real to corporations and entrepreneurs than that of mere “impotent” nongovernment environmental organisations and civic/community groups. If they can see tangible benefits –i.e. on the basis of corporate efficiency; then and only then; can this substantial sector that cannot be ignored or derided from attempts, be persuaded. They will endorse an ecological minded restructuring of the global economic; social and political system to favour the planet first, with other species just as important as our own…

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Chapter 19: The Way of Gaia:

“In antiquity; every tree, every spring, every stream, every hill had its own genii loci; Lare or Guardian spirit or minor deity. These spirits were accessible to humans but were very much unlike them; including centaurs; fauns and mermaids –and the fabled –with the ambivalent. Before one cut a tree, mined a mountain or dammed a river; one apologised to the affected species and spirit; attempted to provide or replant a substitute; it was important to placate that spirit as well; in charge of that particular area/ institution and to keep it mollified –provide an alternative. By destroying pagan animism; Christianity made it possible to exploit Nature in a mood if indifference (Something which secularism has been oh so swift to attend to as well).

Lynn Wells, Science Magazine (James Clarke 2002)

What is the way of Gaia?

This involves a new era of heightened awareness; consciousness of the fact that at any moment we may become extinct... Our planet needs to be the centre of our lives and our being; occupying our thoughts and our priorities, if we are to resolve our impending ecological fate... We cannot rely on the US way any longer. We cannot always hide from reality. One day even the affluent will have to wake up from their daydream. Too long have they been subsidised by dumping and exporting their midden and their problems upon the poor; enriching themselves at the Developing World’s expense. The Way of Gaia aims to incorporate the environment in every spectrum of our existence. For there can be no issue that affects us all more so other than our continued survival at a comparative level of civilised advancement and prosperity. Economics, law, religion, politics, culture, businesses, development, philanthropy, transport, society, philosophy should target ecology and more. This is imperative for we humans seem to have forgotten for the aeons we have inhabited this world that it is; just that: one world! We also fail to make our world the epicentre of our focus. How often does the environment in all these areas; receive precedence? Oh wait; rhetoric beats reality. It is easier for us to spout rhetoric than the perseverance and determination; to truly change our world.

The Way of Gaia would target ecological research on a greater magnitude than is currently invested. Globalisation appears reluctant to invest to invest in one of the fewest; purest potentially marketable and tradable commodities... the future... of us all and the continued habitation of us in the one fragile world we currently have. We therefore cannot

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rely upon them for answers or for any confidence that they will resolve our future. For if our current leadership, science and economic models were capable of resolving the problems; then why have they not done so? What else could be possibly so important as this? What is it about the natural world that antagonises these advocates of globalisation so? What makes them so fearful of it? What can we do to resolve these concerns and shameless neglect/ or abandonment of our world by our impotent, pathetic world leadership who fail to take the Globe’s fate seriously enough? One would think the uncertainty of projections might disconcert them for greater effort and reform alone. How can we therefore trust them? Why should we? As individuals, organisations and communities; as consumers with market power and political constituents with voting power; we can clearly do something about these environmental embarrassments. We as humans bearing full liability must resolve being self-chosen and personally responsible. We cannot blame the capriciousness of the Gods or Spirits for this. For this we ought to feel mortified and abashed about.

The Way of Gaia is a holistic environmental philosophy that understands our planet is not the enemy. We must learn to live in greater ecological harmony and preserve the balance. In addition; we seek the emancipation and liberation of other species as essential. This includes humanity’s egocentric narcissism devoted towards itself. It offers speciesism against any member of the nonhuman race, (any organic creature/ plant/ living organism demonstrating life). Above all; we must stop viewing animals as property. For let us accept the truth without being hypocritical that many animals are imprisoned/enslaved/ treated as property of their own free will. Yet people often paradoxically treat their material possessions. Animals are not property; but living beings who deserve the right to existence, interfering in them only as much as our own survival depends upon it –nutritional, self-defence or otherwise. This is what ecological literacy aspires to teach and instil upon us. It should be mandatory in every human being’s education. For surely our survival, our understanding, our relations with other species and our planet itself – (all encapsulated in this Way of Gaia) should be regarded as such a quintessential and significant issue. It is perfectly simple. Let us minimise our impact –not seek to accentuate it. Let us not waste the planet! Let us not destroy the planet. Let us treat other species –the way; that we ourselves; wish to be treated, with dignity, respect and tolerance –recognising their right to exist. If they must die, at least let it be humane (Or should there be a new word “animane.” Let them avoid suffering.

The Way of Gaia is all about intensifying and appreciating one’s connection with nature, in an attempt to synthesize and commune with their planet and ecosystem. Those who wish to espouse the Way of Gaia as an environmentalist philosophy could consider enhancing contact with our environment. Rather than seeking to isolate ourselves from it. Exercise out being out in the wilderness, hosting lectures, meetings, conversations, socialising 235

outdoors… let us embrace it further. The more time we spend outdoors, the more we breathe in our world. Ingesting and inhaling the more polluted atmospheric emissions might also prompt its contributors to realise what they are missing and they cannot escape it… What could beat the satisfaction; of enrapture with nature in contact, of gazing serenely at the ocean and enjoying Helios and the dunes. What could surpass enjoying the soothing sounds of birds and chirruping insects rather than the shrill cacophony which heightens the emotions, but fractures the nerves and passions? What could compare with contemplating the constellation projected nocturnal realm of stars or the choriasco hues of a twilight glade or translucent sunset/sunrise? Can anything in the human artificial world we construct and the culture worshipped so much; be worthy of such an enchanting; primal spectacle? That is besides the fact; that most of the above are free. Things worthwhile in society and the modern era, are seldom free and available so readily.

To those critics who bicker and squabble over issues of potential finance, it can come from the armed forces. Being Merchants of Death and spurring the arms race can serve no environmental; let alone human benefit; in the majority of human conflicts throughout nature. It should really be used in self-defence; a war of colonial liberation or a civil war against forces oppressing the will of the populace. Again, as the Warfare Mentality chapter argued; this continuous conflict profits few at the expense of our world and is hardly necessary. From an environmental perspective in the new epoch; the only function of the armed forces is self-defence. This extends to shielding our natural heritage as well. The Way of Gaia needs defence from those nations who do not appreciate planetary ecology. For example; the role of the air force; could assist in observation, game capture and the elimination of poaching. The army could assist in halting not only poaching but any infringement of environmental law, as there are too many for inspectors and police alone... The Navy could patrol the coastlines –protecting coral reefs; whaling and prevent fishing stocks for being defeated. Essentially; where we differ from every other treatise; is in the Way of Gaia. It includes utilising the Armed Forces of the World not only in peacekeeping but in serving the environment (as stated above)

The Way of Gaia seeks ecological certainty. It also believes in Truth – the whole, unabridged ecological truth. Nature is essentially truthful. Apart from mirages, it seldom deceives us as to the nature of reality and the severity of an issue. We just have to be able to process; read and interpret it. The exponential magnitude in disasters and climatic aberrations that will occur in this Century in comparison to others; reflects that our planet will not deceive us as to its essentiality. There is a problem and it needs solutions! If globalisation, secularism, monotheism, capitalism, society, the media and politicians do not face that truth. We will all pay, for their lies and their failures. Can we afford to ignore this? Can we afford to be complacent? Let us accept this unpalatable truth and pledge that we will not just ignore the problem. We will not just think and study them problem. We 236

will not just discuss the problem or even just to publicise it; but that we will actively campaign to actually do something to save our planet and resolve the environmental problems the element of free will grants us within our power. Then we as humans can take pride of having achieved something of the most elevated and profoundly sacrosanct tasks of our Age. This is no matter how small or apparently trivial that cannot be taken away from us. This is proof in that by accepting our duty is to our planet; we will have achieved the ultimate. It is that which elevates us above all those souls that do nothing for the world for Gaia and other species; even if we were indifferent towards aiding humanity. After all; if we deny these self-evident ecological truths, we will run out of them at an exponentially contracting rate. The options for even a modestly decent and sustainable pace of civilisation and advancement are disappearing. In the end though; Gaia will eventually reclaim our physical remains/temporal not spiritual forms. Ashes to ashes and dust to dust; returning to the soil; to in turn replenish the arid destitute soil.

The Way of Gaia argues that the soft complacent and passive option is tantamount to initiating our planet’s self-destructive sequence. Surrender equals suicide! There is far more publicity; awareness and information than any other period in our history. Great, but are we actually doing anything? Is anything actually happening behind the facade of brilliant verbiage? Brilliant; that something has been achieved. Now what about the next step of actively modifying human behaviour so the globe we are on finally receives some attention after so long. Resurrecting the ecosystem can only be measured empirically and tangibly via results improving the condition for the survival of species; the purity of the environment; the quality of life etc. It cannot by the output of verbiage from conferences and PowerPoint presentations. How about adapting our principles by doing something –more than just symbolic, pinprick gestures as most of the world’s population seem to be currently doing? After all; we have the privilege that has never before existed, according to extant records, of nothing related to it having been attempted, let alone succeeding. The time is auspicious and propitious. Chronus too is not on the side of humanity or of our planet, given our finite status.

All this publicity and resources would be better spent actually achieving something. Again; although the problems are myriad; the issues have been mainly identified coherently. The public and many businesses and government are sufficiently aware that these challenges exist. Current and previous research has outlined solutions. Practical examples exist from history to show changes are achievable. So; what more do we need? What are we waiting for? Why not get on with it and actually make our impact to save our planet and create our dreams? We can outline the problems and solutions. But once highlighted and prioritised, let us act. Once we have determined a course of decisive action and a way of winning people over to that cause; after sufficient publicity, education, lobbying and effort, let us do something. However; too often profit rules and priority is targeted 237

towards commercial rather than environmental purposes. But so what? We can identify the obstacles and find ways around them –even inertia. For as we do things and prevail –and our slough appears fruitful, others will imitate and reciprocate. Therefore; nothing is impossible! The planet can be saved. But to be serious; we have to adopt these soon, before it is too late.

However; at the moment the will is lacking. Humanity needs to reform ecologically. Qatar –a desert is squandering resources on air-conditioned soccer stadiums in July 2014, only to blow them up once it is over. We can tolerate technology, modern advancements and scientific progress. This is provided it can actually be utilised to serve humanity, other species and our planet. We would award sport competitions on an ecologically sustainable level as well as for sporting prowess and interest. There are other options to saving the world. Unlike others of the environmentalist cause; we do not categorically renounce all participants of science. We commend those companies, governments, NGO’s, academic and scientific researchers who are working to resolve the issue. We would prioritise their work and provide them with financial/other support. There are several fundamental priorities. But we encourage all ideas. For we will not suppress those who are willing to commit themselves to the salvation of their ecosystem, as those who champion globalisation seek to persecute. In fact; we would challenge them all and new others to find new ways to save our planet. The Dune Approach would invite all members of the human race to participate and contribute –in our ultimate challenge of this epoch: to reverse aeons of chronic neglect. We would also invite them to spurn, to ostracise, to sanction, condemn and criticise or prosecute those who prospered at the expense of other species as well as our own, by choosing to profit by polluting inefficiency…

The Way of Gaia can only work if we all ensure compliance with ecological reforms (such as those enumerated here). This has to involve efforts by individuals; government; academia; businesses; NGO’s; international organisations such as the United Nations (UN); World Trade Organisation (WTO); the World Bank/International Monetary Fund (IMF) as conditions for loans; UNESCO and a new; global institution. This complement country Ministries of the Environment/Climate Change to save our planet first. There are many ways to ensure compliance. These include as a condition of aid, the ability to prosecute governments and corporations who refuse to cooperate with global coordinated efforts. They would be liable to trade sanctions and active criminal prosecution in the International Court of Justice of the Hague. Under this, countries such as India; China and the US who thwarted efforts in the Montreal Protocol; in Bali 2007 and Kyoto would be criminally prosecutable for the new crime: planetary genocide!

Internationally and domestically; governments could empower local citizens to report violations against Gaia. They could ask the media to report on compliance. Academia –

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and students could also serve as vociferous watchdogs. Only “green” businesses would receive government support and those bureaucrats; individuals and government enterprise employees/ directors who resisted the efforts would be fired; fined and publicly humiliated. Hey, many may not bother. But others will. All it takes is one person to use the pressures of lobbying power, technology, social networks, each other; consumer sovereignty and whatever else is out there, that no one else is thought of. This can prevent the extinction of a species; retain the purity of a water source; endorse change and innovation; expose a crime against life. It may prompt change and to inspire others to support a transformation of the world.

As animals with souls the way of Gaia is one that considers the helping of other animal souls in peril; to be among the highest of blessings. There can be no nobler cause than to save the life of another, especially for a floundering insect drowning in a swimming pool. The Way of Gaia would oppose animal testing as scientific experiments are based upon flawed empirical evidence. There is little to suggest their effectiveness. Other species are different to humans and therefore medicine/other laboratory tests which ignores those distinctive characteristics, in the perversion of science as seen previously. Most are merely cosmetic/materialism -superficial rather than life saving essential drugs. It would be better to use degenerate criminals who have infringed against the contract society/ governments expect their citizens to abide by. This is preferable to inflict this on hapless innocents of other species that have done nothing whatsoever to merit this contempt/ hostility.

The way of Gaia means that we should minimise animal suffering. This requires a degree of patience, persistence and compassion. But remember most creatures of any species –flora or fauna –including and especially humans, mostly want to be left alone and free to live their own lives as best as possible, without detrimental exogenous influence. It is always easier to inflict harm on an innocent species then to take the trouble to either ignore it. Or let it satiate its curiosity. Or even better, to assist it. In all characteristics that denote life; sentience; animation, intelligence, family; pleasure/pain and other emotions; impulse, memory, thought, forethought, anticipation, habit, art and architecture (ants and bees especially); we share with other species. Nothing is unique to the human species alone. In every sensory perception –sight; sound; smell; taste and touch others exceed us. So why do we think that we are any more intelligent or capable than elephants, gorillas or dolphins, -or cockroaches or crocodiles that have learnt to survive.

Therefore; those who can afford it; should consume only organically rather than processed food. Those willing to make the sacrifice of veganism and vegetarianism or forsake consuming rare species of seafood and land food. Besides, there is something fundamentally perverted about a system of agriculture, economics and society in which, only the affluent can afford to eat healthily. Invariably the poor and middle classes

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consume crap. There is something immeasurably flawed when healthy food i.e. fair trade/ eco sustainable and fresh food costs so much more than stuff contaminated with chemicals, additives, preservatives, flavourants, emulsifiers and other garbage. The idea is not to ignore the implications and consequences of our behaviour –even the food we ingest. We remain concerned for sustainability in the way we choose to life –as the sincerest form of gratitude not just to Gaia and the Gods but also to the species that sacrificed themselves in order that we might live our lives. In addition, we might be able to affirm our sincerity; if we publicly intoned; believed in and practised the following intonation as well as the occasional fast/abstention –or aid our species.

“I ask pardon from all living creatures. May all living creatures pardon me. May I have friendship only to all creatures and vegetation regardless of species –and enmity towards none...

If we are to have pet companions, especially as friends then we should treat them as equivalent to human friends. The value of pets and other companion animals –whether for work; leisure; farming or necessity –i.e. guide dogs; guard dogs and sniffer dogs; is that they have all the virtues of other species being natural, without many of the annoying flaws we keep finding in humans. Sometimes it is in their silence or the mere fact they do not responds as humans would. Or that they are unencumbered by the issues of globalised society; civilisation; the working world; economy; relatives and other pressures. They have virtues and value where humans can be draining. At the least; we ought to recognise them and appreciate this by fair treatment. We should seek to understand their psychology. This includes following methods by those such as horse and dog whisperers (problems commonly found to be with the owner not the pet). The Path of Gaia seeks to enable symbiosis and synergy, so that our relationship is not one sided. This may mean they are not totally dependent and enslaved upon us, but that both assist in the health; welfare; companionship; loyalty and happiness of the other.

“Humankind is an animal, whose purported intelligence and assimilation must compensate for a lack of instinct and for inadequate adaptation to the living, natural world and its inhabitants!”

The Biological Affront. Schopenhauer.

The way of Gaia would advance ecological literacy. It is evident other species are not mere exemplars of random Cartesian determinism reacting to mere neurological, biological impulses, instincts and responses as mere evidence of environment and natural conditioning as evolution would postulate. They are but fellow living beings that deserve more than speciesism and ecological ignorance. Ecological literacy would assimilate environmentalism as more than just a philosophy. It would demand that we perceive other species as fundamentally just as worthy of saving as humanity. Every perception –

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every preconceived notion that so many have that is anti-environmentalism, especially speciest. Such demonstrate other species as being somewhat inferior in status or inequality to that of humanity in alignment with monotheist religions and Darwinism. They proclaim they alone deserve rights –as self-proclaimed masters with the sole right to health, welfare and to dominate our planet; needs to change.

Even our language reeks of this slander towards other species. Look at many of the insults that spring to mind “feather or bird brained,” “cheeky monkey,” “female dog –or son of a female dog,” “Bull or horse crap,” the list is endless. And yet, no one ever considers specifically human themed invective. Unfairly we demean the intelligence; perception and capacity of other species that have often done nothing to merit it. Think of all we expect animals to do. I.e.to entertain; nourish and provide cops; as pet companions and guides; to test our products and research (even when not remotely connected to the intended research outcome); to spectate; guard and defend us and our property…and many other roles. Often this is far more than we do for them. At the very least; not only should we aim to magnify their wellbeing. But our attitude towards them needs to alter –on the basis of being a partnership of equals.

As humans we are extremely privileged, as members of a sentient, organic, cogent, animate species, capable of breathing… living…. experiencing the sensations all around us. We are all already extremely privileged to be on this; of all planets. We are blessed by having Gaia and the Olympian Elementals; who have made it possible for the conditions of life itself to exist. To all those who feel nothing; we who follow the Way of Gaia, I just have one question? When it all goes wrong, and it will; remembering that we can destroy life –but not fabricate an entire ecosystem; can we replace our planet? Just think what we are giving up! Is it worth it? Just by experiencing nature and by participating in its conservation, enjoying participating in it, we are enlivened beyond anything else we could possibly imagine and conceive. We are better off in every sense; then those who seek to distance themselves from it or those who seek to destroy it. And as an ardent supporter and junior subacolyte of the ecological cause –the cause of Gaia, I feel sorry for those who cannot appreciate this. Or even need to ask why all this is worth saving? Why is all this even necessary? Why trade every gift of Gaia granted; for that of all consuming; decadent; overindulgent, unsatisfying materialism, the inevitable protracted doom; the dehumanisation and obliteration of self-identity; health, individuality, alienation and other curses; that so-called global civilised society has chosen for itself…. By renouncing all that is pure, they have lost so much that might benefit them. The retort which springs to mind; is what have they got in exchange? Is it really as valuable and precious?

Why seek to create a virtual reality or artificial computer world, when there is so much to encompass, discover and wonder in our real world… Why waste time in a virtual reality;

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when there is so much to behold and appreciate on our own planet? If you think that you have become jaded with others; there is an entire Universe to encompass; behold and discover… Even if you have experienced every sensation that this modern age and planet has to behold, this is something that could take several normal lifetimes customarily… All we have to do; is find a way of getting there. Hey; do not take my word for it. Find a means of discovering the wonders to behold; to satiate your senses; and appetite for curiosity and new sensations for yourself, especially in contact with the elements; another species or a new environment. Or even really getting to know your own species. Life -our fragile biosphere; our terrestrial ecosystem is a wonder to behold; a reality to experience; a sensation to encompass. The Way of Gaia extends upon this. There are things that this planet can teach us. There are things which we can discover through proximity to our environment and natural heritage; that the material world cannot. This much is self-obvious! We learn what really matters and is most important. We come to learn and to cherish what environmentalists have been prompting us to value for so long.

Nature teaches us change is not to be feared. Crisis! Survival! Adaptation! A complete synthesis of these responses and subliminal conditioning to our environment are needed to withstand and to clarify Gaia. The forms of complexity and simplicity remind us of the miracle that we are part of. It recalls its interconnectivity and the fragility of its survival thus fair –and of its continuation. Why reject the benefits of what heightened ecological consciousness can create? Senses detect impurities from a remarkable distance. They are aware of the ecological peril; accelerating minute by minute, second by second. And yet; few of us seem to trust our senses; let alone our conscience and our instincts for survival, self-awareness, foresight, intuition and awareness. This is even without empathy for other species and our own; or common sense to guide us in the quest for our environment. If we surrender to nature –ours as humans and the natural environment and its blessings, we will be enriched and feel innate peace of the soul; heart; mind and body. We become in natural concord as we maintain ecological and natural equilibrium.

Of efficiency. The ecosystem works! The most basic level of governance, which virtually no one seems to understand, is: “If it works –don’t interfere in it!” The planet has survived, despite humanity’s propensity to interfere in the arcane and unknown –to defile the sacrosanct, blundering about in ignorance or malice, without enlightened understanding. What will it take to recognise this? There are so many daunting hurdles to be pole vaulted. Why waste time stumbling over the one’s already working? Humanity in its current stage of development; cannot propose a more efficacious means of governing the cycle of life. So why not delegate the responsibility of managing the complexity of the biosphere to the most qualified of all: Gaia and the Olympian Elementals of the Macrocosmos? What we can do as humans; is attempt to reduce our current and future discharge into the closed system; that our autarchic world (with the exception of Helios and Selene) is. This elects 242

adopting the planet First and the Way of Gaia; as the most inviolate honour and sacrosanct responsibility.

Of beauty and tranquillity. That which is natural is primarily aesthetically satisfying or appeasing. How true is that of considerable post-World War/contemporary art; engineering and architecture, mostly designed by the aesthetically challenged? Where else but in nature can you find the tranquillity that practically all living things require? The sensations are best immersed when free from intrusion; the glaring; bleeping; echoing cacophony of sensory overload that is hurled at us. The denizens of this pressurizing; often overwhelming set of demands and issues to concentrate upon; distracting us from the peace that could potentially salve our tempest stirred souls.

Adventure is another thing this elemental treatise seeks to argue that Nature provides. The natural world is seldom still and monotonous. There is always something going on, if you pause; observe and concentrate. Nature was not the species who invented ennui. Boredom is a human construct that we sought to unnaturally inflict not just upon us but also the pets/ other animals we retain –either as companions or out of necessity. (Not that we ever show our appreciation to other species even when they have not rebelled.) From nature; we determine our principles. Surely this ought to extend to basic respect and gratitude for the one; who prompted so much, in addition to the Olympians? Nature teaches us about truth. Our planet does not beguile and deceive us. Would that humans could learn from this! Nature teaches us about reality and consequences. It forces us to face the world. If we distance ourselves from it, we will pay the price. By paying attention –we learn how to concentrate on how to work with not against our species; the gods and our ecosystem as well. We are less likely to fail in disaster. We are more likely to forecast premonitions of what our world will be like and how it will respond.

“It is as if all the countries of the Earth had decided to burn down the world’s libraries, without seeking what books and knowledge that lies within them, contain.”

Dr Daniel Janzen, University of Pennsylvania –on the cure for AIDS hindered by burning down the Amazon and other rainforests.”

We humans would not know how to replicate these in our own civilisation, if we had not mirrored those discoveries first encountered in Gaia. Our civilisation would not be possible without it. If we had not discovered harnessing the abundant substances and nutrients that our globe devised to ensure our survival, the truth is we would be decidedly poorer and far less advanced then we are today. Therefore; not only do we need to appreciate and value our environment; everything possible needs to be done to save it. Besides; why should the environment in providing beauty; necessity; life; peace and so many other priceless be treated so callously without any basic respect; common sense; consideration 243

of the future or consequences? Earth offers irreplaceable benedictions; which is so essential; defining and characterising all life, not just our own. It forms consciousness itself; be subordinated to human materialist values. This is especially disturbing of a globalised economy and minded leadership that voraciously seeks nothing more than the extinction of all species by its actions and inaction (on reform).

The fury of Gaia’s disasters warn us of the price of folly and hubris of assuming that we are inherently better than she; that we could even possibly do without her. Without every organism; and species; that quietly and inconspicuously does uncomplainingly whatever Gaia asks of it our existence would rely on the “Darwinian struggle.” This is often brief and painful –instead of synergy; mutual dependence and symbiosis –that so often really gets it. This is where Darwin was wrong – pitting us against Nature, the Gods and other species –instead of with them) And so the fury will intensify; scourging us in turn as we ignore simple fundamental issues of scarcity and the finite. Nothing on our planet; nothing about our species; any species or life itself and our future can be taken for granted; with any measure of surety. The forthcoming Century will be one of Planetary Eco-Destruction. It will be a war between the Elementals and a convulsing Gaia; against a recreant; blind humanity who will not sacrifice or submit to reality, no matter how necessary.

That every living creature has a point; a purpose and a destiny, even if not immediately transparent; is another truth that each person needs to come to understand and respect This means living their lives accordingly with finer harmony. Anyone who has any understanding and recognition of what other species contribute to our own ecology ought to be cogniscent of that. The Gods identify this. Other species have figured this out. So why do we battle to so much? Humans need to realise that they are not the only species that Others have the categorical life to live. Not all of us need to confine ourselves to the noble calling of a vegetarian or vegan consumption habit and austere lifestyle. But we could seriously reduce our impact on this world; in order to let as many other species, thrive as well. We can resolve the formidable challenges that face us, as the noblest of causes worth fighting for. It is about our planet and our chance to create a world that harnesses the best of our planet. It is our last chance to resolve many of the problems which afflict us so… many of which have clearly arisen from ignoring the natural world. Too many are surrendering to the unsatisfying thirst for affluenza and materialism not the natural benefits of our world and balance so needed and essential.

We can be those who participate and contribute. We can forge our planet’s destiny and be part of a new Age; taking pride in what we as humans can do to transform not just our attitudes; but to attain our dreams. We can prove wrong all those that doubted us and to have withering contempt for those who passively do nothing; who just complain or ignore the world. Or would we rather reject this chance to participate in history? Do we want to

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embrace a new Renaissance in which our ideas and actions actually are taken seriously and are implemented? Where is the satisfaction; pleasure or the ecstasy and hope in merely spectating? Why watch others on some electronic screen having lives, while we envy them… justly idly wasting the time granted by Chronus? Why be passive when we could be out in the world; doing something –especially with the environment, with space etc. Why not urge yourself and those you know to participate in this and any other worthy cause; that deserves passion? Why not be the first generation to do what those before us have failed to do; in accepting our environmental responsibility and mandate to save our planet? We need to launch an ecologically minded future –The Way of Gaia; the Gaia Recovery Dialogues (See Resurrecting the Olympian Gods) the Dune Approach; Ecological Literacy; Small Steps; avoiding speciesism. Most of all; I urge not just taking my words and concepts that I and other environmental activists have envisioned but to collaborate in finding our own. We will be effective if we unite in an ecological coalition of individuals; communities; societies; organisations; governments; businesses and other entities… to revive the environmental and other causes that we dream of; so that they do exist… Revolutions have happened before, why not this one?

At the moment as throughout the ages; as humans we have the potential to monitor; record and learn from so many species. Perhaps this is even more than they can learn from us. However; the more we torture species; enslave them or place them in artificial environs/ circumstances, the less reliable or willing these species will naturally be in order to share their discovery; insight; wisdom and talents. The environmentalist philosophy presupposes that there is a considerable volume of data; knowledge and experience that other species have to teach us. We would be better off; if we treated other animals fairly and well enough in order to encourage cooperation for mutual benefit. Through other species; we can have better claims to the timeless task and vision of so many humans –to understand the world we live upon and perhaps benefit from it. It presupposes that we can gain from their heightened senses and capacity to adapt survive. It presupposes that we can enhance our specific faculties. We share in common with other species factors of recognition, memory, natural art; engineering and architecture; healing and psychology; experience; assimilation/stealth/camouflage, emotion, creativity, passion, compassion and others.

After all; if there are many species with countless superior physical senses –sight, sound, taste, smell and touch for instance; then why can there not be other areas to discover; which could aid our current pace of progress. Elephants have greater genetic memories and vibration communication, while many avian species have greater homing capacities. If we worked, with others of different animal types instead of suppressing and constraining their potential; just think how much more could be achieved and how both species could gain in symbiosis. Although we have achieved this to a degree in pets and animal 245

husbandry, we would be better off as a partnership of equals across so many more species. It would certainly help us to value others just as much; as many of our species feels as only applicable to most humans not most species. It might help so many to have the potential to control themselves far better in senseless slaughter; pillaging and annihilation. It may yield advantage if they can see some benefit/value to be gained from other species. It makes perfect sense from the principle of self-interest.

“Can we control ourselves?”

Gaia follows her own laws! These will not change for humans, no matter how much we wish –Nature has ever increasing reason to let us continue to destroy ourselves. In the end it is we who will not survive, like the dinosaurs. Even if we incinerate Earth to a radioactive mire, –there may be other survivors –like cockroaches to carry on where we failed. Those most affected will not be these roaches –who may survive without us. It is we who will suffer the most! It would be foolish for anyone after all, even the omniscient anthromorphism Gaia; to place too much faith in a single species, especially one as ecologically pernicious as ours. Likewise; it would be exceedingly foolish for the human race to base itself upon a single commodity – petroleum oil. It is also exceedingly foolish for the human race to become dependent upon this single planet alone, as our only chance of survival in the universe. This is especially when so many of our species are so clearly incapable of exercising simple control –self-restraint and self-discipline over that which is most rare of the many wonders within this universe. It is not just an oblate spheroid; whose conscious, animate and sentient anthromorphism deity Gaia (prime among other forces). It is one which is not only capable of germinating such a diversity of life and stupendous; miraculous marvels but one which is competent and gifted enough to give birth to the spectacular achievements of the human race.

Gaia can serve as the basis of all morality. For what can be more based with morality and rights than those concerned with defending our right to exist –and that all life should have the same honour. Mortal humans unless equipped with foreknowledge and ecological literacy; should not attempt to meddle with the unknown. Nor is it sensible to interfere in ecosystems; with any species that one day might be potentially useful to our species and that they do not understand the repercussions of fiddling with...There are numina; Lares; spirits; demigods; gods and goddesses that specialise –omniscient and omnipotent, within their divine mantle of power. The miracles of life itself. of nature and being on this planet; are too unconvincing to be explained away – (Rather than explained) by purely mechanical causes. Daily; we are reminded of the divine in the aether; the oceans or on land. A sense of peace and freedom that cannot be captured in urban areas among the stewing babbling concoction of modern life in the globalised 28th century AUC. In the mad frenzy of the modern world, we all need to chill; to relax and take a break. Meditating

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with nature, giving Gaia even a minor bit of your time; to appreciate and savour it; to even walk or sniff the roses as the old cliché goes, is well worth it. Taking a walk away from the frustrations that bureaucracy; work; technology and the other pestilences of living in this corporate; globalised age of instant stress; complexity and urgency hammering the soul away. It can be soothing and enriching to walk, just to escape away from other people –and the issues of people, if only for a while. Such is the necessity of retaining wildernesses and reducing populations, in order to be able to do this.

Again; if there was no other reason, it would be that the world would be a far lonelier place without other species. We would miss and be more miserable without their companionship and their presence. Even as a species; we had progressed to the step of being able to continue our existence on a pollutant blighted world; with few other terrestrial landscapes/species of use to us –vegetation and animal. Ultimately; it is for us to decide! The most challenging thing is to actually will yourself not just to agree in principle, but get out there and act! To choose to support those who are doing something or to do something of your own; may be initially arduous. But the rewards of self-satisfaction; accomplishment and greater health/vitality are incomparable –to the unsatisfied; eternal yearnings and cravings of ever more accumulated stuff. Reasonable portions of nutritious; balanced and scrumptious home cooked food –using fresh produce; is far more pleasing to mind; soul and body then yet more processed; chemical injected junk food. Walking in the fresh air or relaxing at the beach/a park is far healthier and satisfying than staring at yet another small technology screen of some electronic gadget. In essence; anything connecting you with your environment and world is better than contaminating yourself; gorging yourself on materialist overload. Or seeking to insulate yourself from it. To find yourself you have to find Nature. Convene with your zoological; botanical and environmental origins. Nature teaches us how to assimilate; how to integrate in symbiosis. Nature tells us to be grateful for who we are; what we have and what we are... Without our planet not only would we not be here. Virtually everything we had ever achieved would be impossible. We would not have an identity; a purpose or inspiration. Gaia determines our position in the world and our relationship with other species. Gaia decides how to thrive and how to be alive...

Chapter 20: Progressing Forward!

“When people finally understand that this is urgent and solvable, they will demand action. Until then, our politics won’t be equal to the challenge.

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Al Gore –former United States Vice President; Nobel Peace Prize winner and the documentary creator: An Inconvenient Truth; on climate change and environmental reform.

Is it worth progressing forward?

What Do We Need to Do?

What Is To Be Done?

There is nothing to make the sobering truth more palatable than this: We will have to fight. Too many will resist. The majority are simply apathetic. They do not care - especially about the greater scale of an aeon old project, the noblest of causes and the most sensible economically too; to save the planet from humanity. To many the concept of reform is completely heretical. In fact; given how close the turning point is to the end of life; not even merely life as we know it; given that few legislators and leaders have made anything more than token pinprick gestures. This is given how those who attempt to do defy; those who do anything to protect the environment; are routinely persecuted; hounded; suppressed; ignored even arrested, -despite doing nothing wrong, except trying to exercise their supposed democratic rights (do not apply to environmental protesters of the West); one would have to concur with Derrick Jensen –one of the most ardent and impassioned environmentalists; I have had the profound honour of encountering (See Endgame Volume 1 and 2). This recommends that we do everything, even revolution as an insurrection!

We must work to persuade people of the necessity of change. But they must listen. We are not being inflexible and zealous without good cause. This is the right of species –of all species; to enjoy as decent a life as Gaia and the Gods intended with minimal interference –either based on survival or symbiosis partnership (latter ignored by Darwin). The ecosystem is quintessential and fundamental to all. We have nowhere else to go now that the purported Space Age has stalled. Research has been scuppered; so we cannot afford to get it wrong. We are open to debate, but are they? Too often they prefer persecution. Besides; every argument as this and far more illustrious treatises/and reality mind glaringly shows; on their behalf especially insists ultimately that economic and libertarian fail. Even materialism could have been far more sustainable.

But those who do nothing but continuously hinder the path of the planet to a sustainable ecological equilibrium –those are the people that we propose a Great Purge. They deserve every form of resistance even violence, if no other choice exists (The other side has no inhibitions about what works, why should we?) To those obstinate degenerates – why should we grant them an eternal liberty to jeopardise the only inhabitable world we have? Some respond to reason. Others will never listen. Violence may be drastic and draconian. But where passive resistance fails it might be the only thing. People think nothing ever

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changes. But it is easy to prove this assumption wrong. Look at history! Every significant change –whether it advanced or retarded individual; social; nation or empire/ world progress only happened through great exertion and commitment. It breathed a willingness to do; whatever it takes. This one will be no different…. Otherwise; we might as well forfeit life; we might as well surrender and quit. The Gods and Nature will retaliate punitively. For that will be our pathetic terrestrial fate; the ash of this world; desolate and wracked soon; unless we will it otherwise by fighting against those who cannot and will not change for the planet’s sake; for that of others and their own.

To assess this; it might be worth reflecting on the ultimate environmental goal! We are here to save and restore our planet; as a worthy place for all species. We will transform our economy so it reflects the scarcity of resources. Our philosophy of life; will encompass what we can learn from Gaia. Our religious faith –atheist or not; is to incorporate veneration and appreciation of this planet and to learn from ecological history; to initiate a real Green Revolution; in order that we may not only avert disaster but we will survive and we will all - prosper. Besides; with one planet and only one planet; with finite resources, we do not exactly have much choice, do we? Adopt or perish! All those that screw things up and for Gaia need to realise that with our planet all organisms are equal. All of our achievements; will not impress a Convocation of Olympian deities; or a Tribunal presided over by the Furies; the Fates and Gaia. Neither celebrity status or wealth; or material possessions; neither position; status; power or influence will save them; when it happens.

Oh for a purified environment! It is not an impossibility. For a world where it is not such a burden to endure –or even simply to breath and perform elementary functions but one in which these environmental crises have shrunk to being issues. For a planet; free of visual; noise and other forms of superfluous pollution; where we can actually breathe and live. To strive for a homeworld without fear, where we are not denied that which we need to attain the dreams and potential of all species. This means not just one at the expense of others. Or to enrich a certain minority by exploiting and enslaving the rest of us/ them… Besides; to gaze at the ocean, to experience a maelstrom, to perceive the world at twilight.... to cast yourself soaring through the aether or entranced by the infinite stars, that is true life appreciation. To become involved in the intricate artifice of life and savour the potent vigour of the elementals; that is what it is meant to be about. That is when you realise what it means to be humble to be breathless before the face and fury of Gaia. whiplashing you into animate radiance; simmering with the electromagnetism that motivates our spirits. That is what it means to be alive. Do we really want to see the end of all this? For; that is what the proponents who reject doing anything; are suggesting.

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How else to relate the sensation of breathing – of being part of this world! Each of us has our own experiences which formed our very beings; which moved our souls. These create connections with other species, our environment, with our planet, whatever they may be. Only by living with the natural world, by experiencing it in its grandeur; its glory and its capacity for miracles; can we begin to understand why it is worth preserving and why it is so irreplaceable. Isn’t it worth guaranteeing those experiences remain, as more than a memory of the fading past? Do we really wish to dismiss these wonderful sensations? Besides; should we not feel sorry for those who have such apathy or weakness that they need to be told about the need to conserve the world? Should we not pity that they have clearly never been alive to the values of our planet and do not know what they are missing? However, we have to act to save the plant from their hubris; ignorance or contempt. Those of us who as reasonable beings know the value of this planet, know it is worthy of being saved. But do they?

What would it really entail to progress forward?

For example; as someone who wished to do more than merely write this book; save other species from humans; to conserve energy where possible’ consume organically; recycle and other such ecological approaches; I wished to join several extant environmental organisations. This is given the censorship and hostility of the Student Union at the University of KwaZulu Natal to found my own. However; of those that bothered to respond, many ignored me; stonewalled; hedged or in other ways fobbed me off. I wish posterity to record the lack of commitment and convincing credentials to the following… Greenpeace; WESSA –Wildlife Society of South Africa; Earth Organisation; the South African Centre for Environmental Rights and World Wildlife Fund South Africa (to cite a few) Only a handful responded and were mercenary seeking membership fees in advance. This is despite my desire to attend at least one meeting first to assess the scenario and establish whether or not they were a good society. This is despite examples such as Students for Law and Social Justice. One would think that given the state of the world’s biosphere; these foundations are not exactly oversubscribed with volunteers seeking to want to do something. Surely; they wish to enthuse and interest the young such as I? Why then have they no interest at all, especially when I also had ideas for reform; not only those outlined in this treatise but actually seeking to coordinate existing protests and organisations. This is so the Counter-Resistance to our environmental problems might actually have a chance. It is difficult to progress forward if even the existing structures of defence feel such; are unwilling to unite; recruit, consider new ideas and to act –to expend energy to save the world we ought to venerate.

In this proposed Ecological Age we will make opportunities for those who want to do something for their planet. Resources, the right to assemble, advertise, to mobilise, act

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and arrest without facing legal prosecution in this Ecological Age. All will be personally held liable for their infringements against any law violating protection of the environment. Actions will face swift consequences, even host community and environmental forces to vigilantly patrol the areas for infringers. It includes establishing voluntary environment societies throughout educational institutes and the community. These can espouse the practical benefits, especially cost savings to those traditionally neglected by the middle/upper wealth distribution percentile. We will deploy the most powerful weapons this era has of enforcing true democracy and consumer sovereignty among the consumers –the powers of adverse publicity. This is through the impetus of the media and modern social networking technology, especially for the majority of the populace.

One could change the world. One could lead by example or by virtuous example. But is it worth it if no one seems interested in striding forth and advancing? We gave the current generation and previous leaders a chance to solve our problems. We gave them a chance to prove us wrong but it has failed. So, it is up us to decide how to change their world, in the absence of our so-called leaders. We need to make impressions. Above all; we need to create the impression it is the socially popular thing to do by engaging with the media and those charismatic. That it is “the cool” thing to do. At the moment; environmentalists are seen –as anti–realists and buzz kills. We need to reverse this with the challenge of adventures, reforms, actions; demonstrations; publicity and spectacles. However, these would have to be phenomenally spectacular; in order to compete with the barrage of ignorance; contempt and hostility directed towards the cause, the quest to defend the planet. They would have to be magnificent to arouse any active interest from many. To change the world; we need to make an even greater impact than: “An Inconvenient Truth,” –and it needs to be sustained. We need public debates with our opponents to humiliate them. Or at least promote the cause. We need to flood the media with ideas of people making a difference and publicise violations. We need more protests to convince the polluters we don’t need them unless they radically and swiftly change.

To progress and excel forward as a species deserving even slightly the arrogant role as stewards and curators of the planet that we expropriated, several targets must be changed and prioritised. It would be mandatory for each country to comply with international and domestic environmental legislation. This especially extends to global conventions pertaining to countering pollution and climate change, no matter how feeble. Or face economic and diplomatic sanctions for no compliers; to favour only eco-solutions. Repercussions need to exist and be linked for countries. Ecological literacy would be mandatory in all places of education. Cities, technology, even the entire economy and society need to metamorphosize. We would rehabilitate wracked and ravaged terrain; recycle wherever possible and work for a more organic and balanced existence/ 251

consumption. But not only would we discourage materialism but a more fundamental change in psychology is needed in orientating our lives, not to be so human centric… not to be speciest… To do so we would prioritise communication across species and seek to find a way to consider the perception/perspective and potential of other species with whom we share this planet. Despite the best efforts of so many, we are all ultimately dependent upon in order to continue to exist.

It is also essential to try and reconcile what needs to be done in confronting reality and then to link it to our personal benefit. We need to discover people’s perceptions towards the environment. Why they feel the way they do to the Ultimate Life Source, to other species and to the environmental problems that face us? If we are to have any chance to change it. Perhaps we need to find out just how much people really value their planet? What are they prepared to do about that? Environmental economics shows many theoretical approaches of people’s willingness to accept and willingness to pay, which could be established in reality if people were actually willing. We could see if people care about life and the world enough to the extent which they are prepared to devote to it. This is helped by publicly presenting these arguments and sources to all education and information distribution systems including technology and social/media networks. Then no one could ever again claim ignorance as an excuse to be apathetic, avoid commitment and devotion.

We could support those who actually want to do something while prosecuting the criminals to contribute to rehabilitation, rather than the inverse relationship that exists at the moment. We could offer the chance for debates and voices to be heard plus means to implement them. In a new Ecological Era; we realise we cannot rely on the governments and corporations of the world alone to pursue the cause of environmental justice; concerned about the rights of species and the quality of life. We have to rely upon ourselves in order to make it a reality. This is achievable via empowering and supporting individuals; organisations and communities to create their own projects and initiatives; to reform their own lifestyle and to implement their own inspired ideas. We ought to endorse whatever it takes. Ultimately however, it needs to be coordinated so that the efforts do not fizzle out. Psychologically; we all need to unite over this issue. This requires to be just as vociferous in our clamour and determined in our support, as our adversaries. They not only betray us but in their advocating pollutant, inefficient ways that in no manner benefit us; act-as a Nemesis of the planet Earth herself! It cannot be impossible or implausible to progress and advance forward. It is possible to show that we are capable of excelling –when we choose to be

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“Rhino have a particular plaintive cry which once heard… is never forgotten. The screams of agony from rhinos that have had their horns chopped off whilst still alive should reach out into –and twist the hearts of all of us…”

Ian Player

This forthcoming section demonstrates that it is possible for us as humans to avert the extinction of every possible remaining species on this planet with sufficient zeal and conviction. It highlights a conservation strategy that could be modified for practically any country and adjusted for almost any species. What is the economic value of a rhino? Is there a practical mechanism to make a live rhinoceros of greater economic value in conserving, perhaps for tourist purposes than that of a deceased one? This might aid in establishing a value and hence a market price as an inducement to conserve, if we can establish ecotourism which facilitates community employment and development for more than the counterproductive method of poaching and provide the local community with fiscal and other incentives. These include to report ecological crimes such as poaching/theft; tree felling; polluting; littering etc. For those who violate the environment; should be treated like those who would pilfer any ecological asset or property/ treasure. If they do not value our resources i.e. rhinos with their horns then they should be denied access to our territory, especially from those countries most notorious as sources of ecological crimes. We could then structure trade on grounds of sustainability and fair treatment to avoid any commercial interaction if it might reduce potential resources to the extent this resource is irreversibly extinguished within the future.

Given that rhinos are easily renewable resource, there are a number of answers. One solution that could reduce the number of considerable incidents with poaching is to flood the international markets with fake rhino horn –cow-horn or otherwise –and then perhaps expose the potential fake. Apologists for the hunting lobbyists and other critics often argue that there is nothing wrong with taking a rhino horn or hunting –or of alleged, untested medicinal and aphrodisiac properties. To them we ask; how can it be possibly justified for a human taking a rhino horn which for millennia we were perfectly able to do without for practically every function of our diurnal existence. We would make no exceptions –arguing that even domestic trade and trophy piling should be banned–to avoid the validity of this as an argument –not to make legal exceptions; to be consistent –as one approach.

To defend rhinos from being poached they need tracking devices/ homing beacons; so that at any one time. South Africa could deploy the SANDF –Army for ground patrols; the Air Force to intercept all craft near and within parks and the Navy against seaborne smuggling. One effective deterrent –is the shoot on sight/to kill policy as recommended by Robert Mugabe in the 1988 Zimbabwe National Parks Act legislation. At least; this

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would avoid those particular beings the chance to slay even more rhino then restricted in movement, a period of surveillance for a year. Why could poachers possibly deserve any mercy for killing a species that has never personally committed any wrong against them? Which is a greater crime? Or is it to contribute to the extinction of a magnificent species? For once it is gone, it has disappeared for ever –Too late; the rhino will never return.

The international case study of Botswana at least appeared to have thriving rhinos. The Khama Rhino Sanctuary when I visited in July 2013 had 4 black rhino and 45 white rhinos. The 5 I saw at a watering hole at sunset –had at least a dozen armed forces of the Botswanan Defence Forces protecting and monitoring them valiantly. Of course; this has to be done wherever possible with minimal physical, emotional, mental and psychological intrusion upon the lives of the species concerned. It imposes the opportunity cost existing from constraints on the potential numbers of personnel involved. Rhinos and for any species under threat of extinction could be relocated to safer/ more remote parks and reserves, –where it is easier to protect them –perhaps even private reserves. All valid stockpiles too should be registered and heavily guarded against possible poaching. They are only needed for state purposes –academic/forensic by the centralised and provincial park conservation

Psychologically; ways to get the public involved is to prompt sufficient community awareness and education. Even the poorest and the richest –especially those in rural areas/ around preserves with rhino, present the significant of ecological literacy –of conserving the rhino. This is once the potential benefits are sufficiently publicised and humanity learns of the necessity, beauty and value. One also has to consider the psychology of the criminal in order to devise a tactic to counter poaching. Until alternative source of income/employment are provided; the nature of poverty will prompt them to take the gamble; regardless of the draconian legal consequences involved. Fines are no deterrent to poachers. The trifling magnitudes are easily recoverable in the next potential poaching scenario. Nor are lengthy prison sentences given the conviction rate is so high. Some physical injury –perhaps retribution goring by a horn may provide a reasonable form of natural justice. Allow species to get revenge on their persecutors.

Legitimising trade where it can be taxed, regulated, controlled and provide jobs; while reducing the power and influence of the black market and enabling the species to thrive. This would reduce these degenerate criminals of the chance to contribute to the extinction of species; as these are commercially exchanged and protected by businesses seeing them as legitimate assets. If the welfare; health; prosperity and survival of rare fauna; vegetation and terrain biodiversity is paramount, then this market power is the most capable mechanism to enable supply and demand. This is provided other species are treated healthy and allowed to thrive as we. After all; the evidence of this can be seen in

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other commercial transactions. Why should it be any different for that of other species? At least they would have a worth; the ones in parks would be protected and spared. This partially justifies the resources devoted to their preservation through the revenue derived from tourism as with other species.

The media too should champion the issue supporting those interested and concerned –publicising both the victories as well as the favour. If more media sources were to champion rather than ignore environmental challenges; the public might have a greater incentive to participate. Alternatively if more conservation minded souls were prompted –to protest into the media and prodded into actually doing something; any species, especially that of the rhino could be averted from possible extinction. They could contribute their own articles and proposed solutions. They could donate. Or they could volunteer to act/ to get involved. Legally domestic country hunting could also be halted –there are other, les threatened species to target. However; there is one such policy that I have advocated that would preserve species from extinction and that is to combine conservation with human self-interest or commercialism. In this example of Rhino; we as South Africa (while the world could also learn from this) could adopt an effective anti-poaching strategy. This means pressurising those countries most susceptible to trade in endangered species –violation of CITIES to focus rather on legitimate trade relations (using diplomatic and economic sanctions against and continuous game farming. If we do not save a species? What else are we good for? Can we possibly be worth anything at all if we do not take the time to aid the conservation of others in the long run –if at all?

Is it any wonder; that we have failed? In 2007; the international organisation UNESCO charged with preserving the places on the planet valued most from a biodiversity and conservation perspective was allocated a paltry $ 3000,000 from the nations of the world to fund developing world efforts to conserve the environment designated on its World Heritage List. How is this supposed to even begin to make a start on reforming and shielding the environment, especially when one considers the proportion of subsidies paid to lobbyists for polluting industries; considerably exceeded that in hundreds of billions of dollars; -if not more. This exempts the trillions spent on warfare (further aggression towards the environment)? In order to continue we need to prove that we really do value the environment. We need to set up further funding where it is necessary and a global federation of environmental protectors/forces aligning to perpetuate our world; saving it from the blight of humanity thus far.

What now?

To this we need a twofold approach. One consists of establishing key set attainable short; medium and long-term decisive policies and actions that each person; business;

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government; media; academia; NGO; religion and other corridors of power/influence need to implement within designated timeframes. The Dune Approach envisions a multigenerational effort tantamount to reviving the potential of our planet by curbing our population/ extraction of resources/ plus replenishing those to more ecologically sustainable levels. We must reduce our dependency. If everyone is given some clear answer and motivated throughout their education, work, religion, culture and community to act… they may act. Self-regulation will work as well if it is channelled into these preordained targets of change and restoration, to prevent businesses and others discouraged –and not interested in complying. The second approach addresses the principle of self-interest –with both incentives to prompt compliance and penalties for violations that are actually enforced and receive sufficient fund/ powers and enforcers to do so.

At all times perhaps, the way forward is to actively involve all stakeholders with the state/ another third-party neutral arbiter. This is so that each key stakeholder affected can summarise their concerns/ perspectives. They can negotiate solutions that combine business profits but not at the cost of the planet. This is non-negotiable even if it meant designing eco-friendly products; installing technology; configuring efficiency; using renewable energy etc… This is the approach I generated in my devised African Doctrine of Port Design for my Master’s Dissertation and in designing seaports to adapt to climate change for my g PhD research. The concept of dialogue of ubuntu –for economic developments with key users to identify concerns –in particular environmental and other potential constraints to port productivity and efficiency, so that ports can be modernised and made more efficient –while lowering environmental costs. This is one that could apply to any public or private sector infrastructure/construction project, so that one sector gains by a profit maximising cost efficacious; technically proficient product/facility –avoiding superfluous capacity. The other gains from conserving resources; lowering costs –but primarily from the anti-ecological externalities that could potentially occur.

We could empower the youth and use social networking to promote the message and prompt action as well as the ballot box and protests. We could boycott those who don’t care. Education too could be the Oracle of Enlightenment. Apart from mandatory eco design modules for engineers and architects and on environmental health benefits for medical training; we could all receive learning on ecological literacy at school. This is every bit as important as the equivalent of life orientation and civics (Which teach you how to live with society and humans but not your planet)/more so than “General Studies” equivalent. It would help the environmental cause if each could apply their own intelligence and conscience to make a decision. They can all decide about whether they care at all about their planet –or whether they do not. One simple way to do so; is to explain the basic environmental mechanism; the mechanics of climate change and the 256

Way of Gaia. They could promote the Dune Approach in which we imagine an eco-friendly world; environmental harmony and mutually symbiotic coexistence/ communications–and ask for their own solutions; as a continuation of this way.

Emotion, passion and action drive the stock market. It drives the masses. Why can it not be transferred to the biosphere? Why does our planet and why do the Gods; lack a cult of people zealous and fanatical as influential; motivated and dedicated as that of sport; global fashion, technology, music or celebrity worship? Terra deserves her own lobbyists too. The environment is not as fluctuating as the stock market indicators are. One has mentioned the constructing of artificial constructs; of terraforming nature, of seeking to escape from it. I could also interject with my medical discovery of the vocal enhancement syndrome and its implications for severing connections with our planet. To progress forward meaningfully –things cannot remain the same as they are. Even if we did desire the status quo that most crave to quote from Giuseppe de Lampere in his novel; The Leopard: “If we want things to stay as they are things will have to change...” We cannot recycle the same philosophy with merely a few cosmetic changes –and expect something meaningful to actually materialise for it... We do have answers for those that continue to plague our efforts at any reform including the Eco Revolution! They would like us to despair and defer to them. But they will continue to dally and dither. They will say these things take time. We’ve had that for aeons and look at the toxic mess we’re in! They will say: research must be done; people are making an effort. Or let’s educate. Yes –we need ideas and innovation. But why not start with what we have achieved as humans so far –Let us do something before it is too late. Yes, we need publicity and education –to some extent! Yes –we need individual efforts! But mainly, we need to actually do something and avoid espousing the cowardice of the current leadership; stridently moving the world forth into the consigns of eternal oblivion. Let us encourage; inspire and support each other in this, which moves us all, without favour. However; most of all; we must be interested and willing to change. It would benefit each and every one of us, to reflect upon the potentially fatal consequences of marginalising this problem and the path taken. Can we really afford to get this wrong?

Our aim is to find valiant; sincere and efficacious solutions; efforts and attempt serious reforms. For example; we would make this a priority and ask for ideas on environmental reform from everyone... on every level. We would ask national and local government to come up with specific environmental legislation and a criminal law framework for violators of environmental law. We would ask all provinces; sovereign countries; businesses and individuals to participate and to establish clean energy conversion; sustainable waste disposal, recycling and other ways to save our planet. However; serious attempts at reform are few. This is perhaps emanating from the serious cowardice that globalisation’s champion protectors demonstrate with (at best); mediocre levels of 257

leadership environmentally. Many demonstrate minimal or non-existent degrees of consciousness; ethics and responsibility for the planet and universe they inhabit.

True political and social cowardice is the failure of our current generation of leaders and the people of an increasingly hegemonic society; to resolve the inevitable challenges that confront us. They fail to be determined enough to do whatever it takes! This is especially true of the gentrocrats leading the reactionaries; opposing ecological conservation in action; not just in principle. It would not be a concern; except they are imparting the same philosophies of defeatism; cowardice and token gestures, rather than meaningful actions to us all. Who can we follow? Who can be relied upon, for those that are interested? There are few –precious few leaders in any of the world’s major current government; that are based on an environmentalist platform. Governments and corporations see little lobbying power and profits in championing the “Green Cause,” continuing to do nothing; despite mouthing platitudes to the contrary. And yet, the environment affects us all.

Governments could recalibrate contracts favouring more energy efficient companies over those not affected to factor in the environment. But have they? Only a New Environmental Order which regards the environment as the foundation upon which all growth and development is centred upon can be the answer. Only it is worthy receiving first consideration as the one factor that ultimately determines the prosperity of all species… where it becomes a condition of all government tenders, contracts, patronage from housing to military, healthcare and education. As a new political, religious, economic and social structure it can be the answer, given the absence of evocative transfiguration by the current system of globalisation. Therefore, it is up to us to do something. The Arab Spring; the London, Parisian and Athenian riots and others show that only the people –when they put their mind to it; can actually modify their surroundings. To those who may be asking: What can I do, what can we do to make a difference? We can at least try to use the common sense and our faculties that Mother Earth and the others, gave us.

The only illuminating spark to ignite the flicker of hope is that finally; after so long... so many individuals; governments and businesses realise that we have a problem! They acknowledge no matter how grudgingly; that some approaches and ways, will have to change for the sake of our own survival. The problem has happened. But now we need to make purposeful sacrifices and due homage. Who knows? Perhaps we are uncertain about what may happen? But isn’t the heightened uncertainty in itself not a sufficient reason to act? Isn’t not knowing when or if something is going to happen or is happening; foolish without any forethought or preparation? Generally, people would answer in the affirmative in virtually every scenario; except that one which matters most –our own planet

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Any government could prove its sincerity and how serious it is; by not succumbing to lobbyists for pollutant spewing industries, rather than the people; whom they are nominally supposed to represent. They could focus on improving efficiency in current infrastructure to change pollutant energy into clean energy and sponsor mass transit. They could create financial incentives for pro conservation groups and disincentives to more polluting ones. Contracts and tenders could not only consider price, quality and quantity; but also; defending the environment. I.e. the proportion of recyclable materials used etc. They do nothing as the environment’s capacity to absorb our crap falters… bleating about the problem and floundering about. Surely, we can do better? After all; we need to.

Without making an effort to save the environment and biodiversity, the world as we know it and as we wish it will disappear, forever. This even rebounds for those profit motivated. Think of all the lost opportunities to gain from it. Just imagine what our planet would be like denuded of most species and life! Contrary to what most appear to presume, we cannot survive and endure alone, for more than a petite and diminutive duration. Is this what we really want? Is this what our opponents’ desire? In this; we include those who resist any environmental reform or economic restructuring; those apologists who lobby for the old pollutant; materialist “rat race” or Veblen “conspicuous consumption/ recurring “Keeping up with the Jones” mentality. This is not to mention those denialists who ignore reality; are committing the ultimo act of treason and sacrilege to the Mother Goddess; anthromorphism and to every living creature whom prefers to change - rather than lose her.

This approach has to consider other areas. It has to involve all professions; all sectors of humanity; all environments and everything from economics to law and justice to education to ethics to food; to consumption and production to religion to science to technology to renewable energy to space exploration. It even has to incorporate the way we conduct warfare to conservation; tourism; politics; taxation and commerce. For example; engineers could be inspired by Natural Engineering. Engineers, architects and draughtsmen should incorporate the environment holistically in their designs. For example; it could become a compulsory requirement for every first year student pursuing these vocations to take eco design as a compulsory module. This course would include energy conservation; eco efficient materials; water reduction; recycling and internal environmental attempts to reduce noise; light and other forms of pollution. They could consider Nature to reduce heating/cooling/enhance insulation etc. Technology could consider manufacturing planet friendly commercial appliances. Lawyers could choose environmental law. Economists –environmental economics; surveyors could add the environment too. Business related degrees could incorporate the environment as could artists, scholars, composers, authors, actors, films and theatrical performances. These 259

could echo the inspiration of Gaia (the unofficial “Tenth Muse) Corporations and governments could be approached as stipulated elsewhere; with appropriate incentives and penalties.

In order to progress forward; it is better not to take things for granted. The environmental focus and perspective could occupy our mindset and actions. Besides; if we adopted these reforms how could we not be better off, for the reasons not only advocated in this volume but by many environmentalists and affiliated individuals and institutions? If our critics can find a single convincing argument to persuade the world against any of the possibilities of reform and change mentioned within these pages –or those advocated by others; then we are willing to debate freely and negotiate over it. If you have something to defend, let us be candid and open about it! However; if they cannot; then we would invite them to publicly have the decency to renounce their objections and let reforms be implemented. Even if we are only marginally better off, or remain virtually the same in impact –it is worth considering progressing forward on new reforms –This is more logical than blindly and slavishly adhere in homage to a hidebound; fossilised and desiccated, archaic sequence of ways that clearly isn’t working. After all; some of these reforms have to be worth considering. It is highly improbable that the environmentalists could harm the human race, (let alone other species), to quite the same extent as our current and historic means of war against the planet and cause of defending Her…

In order to move forward, we need to consider the ecological not to mention the security –or economic impact if we continue upon this course, not just of this world but of all worlds. It cannot just be about the human race as well. Each part of the ecosystem is integral and imperative -and we need to save it all. Progressing forward requires a coordinated response encompassing the Dune Approach; the contributions of individual continents (like those previously cited) and those outlined in the Ecological History. We need specific proposals and people willing to lead by personal example. The route may not be the most socially popular. But it can become so! Moreover; it requires the ideas; perspiration and perspication of every single individual. That extends to every nation –developed or developing. Environmentally, economically, not to mention from a survival perspective , anything and everything is necessary. It is up to the First World to disavow itself of materialism equating to anti-environmentalism as the sole; rapacious determinant of economic growth. They need to assist the Third World. But the Third World has the chance to learn from their mistakes. The Second and Third World has the chance to Earth and choose the path of sustainable development; that it took aeons for the Developed World to realise the necessity of.

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Chapter 21: Common Sense and Small Steps:

“In a moment; the ashes are made, but a forest takes a long, long, long… time to grow…”

Lucius Antonius Seneca. Natural Questions

Natural disasters and pandemics are Gaia’s attempts to condense the human pestilence into one that she can manage efficaciously. Therefore; it is common sense to reduce the population. It is even greater common sense to stop interfering in things we clearly do not understand! One day; our species will pay the ultimate fatal price! After all; according to 261

the WWF –one species by becoming extinct; is paying for it –on average merely every twenty minutes or less. And yet; how long would we survive without our planet and Gaia –the embodied anthromorphism? We should heed this and take note of it every single day that our planet graciously extends to us its greatest privilege of all. This is being able to experience life, rather than nonexistence. Let us face it; without it; we are effectively useless. Common sense dictates that we need to be grateful to our planet and not straining its ecological resources via a ridiculous acceleration of the human population pressure. Of all our crimes against nature; destroying our environment and accelerating our species beyond critical and sustaining environmental limits. One of the most admirable policies of China was its “One Child Policy.” The way of Gaia demands sacrifices One of those is the common sense; anathema to most religions; of reducing demographic growth to ecologically self-sustaining ways. The planet is not meant to nourish so many of the human species...

When thinking about it; there is one fundamental and self-evident reason; why humanity at its current pace of growth and titanic appetite is not sustainable. There are too many humans and too few of so many other species that have been ecologically unbalanced by human endeavours. We have to ask: How many humans are really necessary? It does not take a genius to realise the unsustainable impact of the current magnitude of humans who have just exceeded 7 billion beings. Do we really need so many? If we could reduce humans to an ecologically optimum; critical population mass then other species might have a natural chance. If the planet loathers were to perish first, that would significantly help. After all; at the moment they are consuming resources that might be better left conserved as strategic reserve stockpiles, especially when climatic change takes over.

The sooner we act –the more chances we have to reverse this cataclysmic metamorphosis transforming the surface of the planet and the aether. Each of us could pay a part in this reversal. We could either create our own environmental lobbying group/social faction etc.’ We can suggest our own reforms or support those politicians; businesses and groups that already do. Each of us could pressurise others to change; plant something; raise funds and donate time’; money/resources – whatever we can spare to prove our support of our world. This may seem thankless or hopeless. But looking at what has been lost; and what remains of our natural heritage; it cannot be just my conclusion alone; that it is ultimately worth it. In fact; how can anybody not give a toss about their planet –and be interested in its potential to help you in being alive? If so how can they call themselves a member of any species? How can they deserve life in denying a part of themselves? Besides; without us what real chance do those environmental activists; -the heroes and martyrs have; without each and every one of us; willing to act and to strike?

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We may appear powerless to withstand Gaia’s fury. But only those who attempt to do nothing despite myriad warnings; are truly powerless and deserve their ultimate fate. Gain more supporters who feel the same. People like us respond to action. We may seem alone and helpless. We are anything but this! We may appear insignificant in numbers and in prospects. But we have the potential to succeed… -individually and collectively! After all; throughout history; it has not been those who remain actively passive but those –whether reactionary or revolutionary; who have shaped and participated in formulating their future. They are often victorious in changing things, regardless of what might happen… We may often seem powerless; but one small step that humans can make is to control their procreative energy. We should not be penalised to be single or for one or 2 children at most; as commerce decrees in enforcing that we pay extra for this.

Conventional commerce argues the environment is a privilege not a birthright. You have to pay far more for bottled water and organic farming. You have to pay more for ecologically sustainable products rather than tosh spluttering out of the smokestacks of Asia. You have to pay more for the right to dwell away from polluting industries; to be able to breathe; bordering on parkland; for renewable energy; eco-friendly vehicles and so-called public transport. (Several thousand pounds a year –a quarter to a third of a decent ordinary salary for an average annual railway ticket when a car; being once off –is cheaper). In essence being even remotely sympathetic to the environment, makes you exploitable. As for being poor or less well off, forget it... Your status in life is to dwell among the health and welfare hazards of slums and polluting businesses. In essence; it is not the polluter who pays as they should (and could well afford to) but us who mostly cannot!

The current leadership are apathetic at best. Active colluders to the consortiums who sponsor their re-election campaigns at worst. Democracy in this global era; is mostly a farce for those who favour the environment or oppose globalisation, for whatever reason... If you try to protest –and call for justice or reform. The police merely respond by Tasers; tear gas; rubber bullets; arrests and convictions. If we try to consult those who only really represent us when angling for votes; they merely ignore us. After all; they would either have to do something meaningful –which most cannot be bothered or that would forfeit their vested interests. If we challenge them, asking them to serve the public cause –especially the environment; true health and welfare of us all rather than their own immediate interests, they either evict you or politely show you the elevator... Is it any wonder; that most people are apathetic at the polling booths. Their vote when it comes to things; doesn’t matter. Another election happens. So what; big deal! It’s like a student representative at university or a school prefect being popularist. Once voted –they join the existing leadership.” The more things change, the more they stay the same. That is why; this treatise in asking for an eco-revolution is pragmatic enough to note the lessons of the 263

Arab Spring – and knows; that true power and hope; lies not in the old regime –but in the people!

And so, we have waited unwilling; unable, hapless to act; unresponsive to our own needs; let alone those of other species and this oblate spheroid. Alone of all other spheres in this Multiverse that we know of; it has made it possible for us to coexist. It is time that we discharge that task. The moment for us to concretely demonstrate that we give a toss and can do something. Even if it merely consists of passive or active support of those who are finally ready to change history and reverse our aeon old relationship of subjugating this planet into submission into a partnership of equals. Gaia could reverse many of humanity’s mistakes –desertification; global changes in climate and overpopulation on a planet never meant for so many humans. But given the planet being treated so callously –why should she possibly bother at all?

We of the environmental movement have too long put up with those who seek nothing but the planet’s demise. We spurn and ostracise those seeing to aid and facilitate convenience of so many –who are too possessed of hubris or fundamental elements of virtue; ecological consciousness; ethics; sensitivity or dignity to modify and eliminate their impact upon their planet. Why should we continue to place the price for their sheer; obstinate bellicose ways? Why should be put up with their hostility; their contempt and their unwillingness to do anything on behalf of their planet. Tolerance can only extend so far… They cannot tolerate us. So why in the name of that most sacrosanct, other species; the Elementals and the planet herself; are they worth saving? Why save those who perpetuate not only their own suicides but involve the rest of us as well, whether we want to or not? In fact; one only has to evaluate many people to realise their tacit –explicit or implicit collusion in the demise of their planet. But we will be there, waiting. For those who do not want to be reminded, we will continue to serve as memories, so they cannot suppress the truth. The less they act, the less we will put up with for them –as environmentalists; realising that humanity will seldom change voluntarily of the ways which it has embraced for so long. It starts with refusing to even listen to those who believe otherwise… let alone help them…

Perhaps they deserve to be purged. If humans do not appreciate what they are given; if they do not seek the chance to reform… to avenge and to embrace the environmental cause that any decent soul deserving of the innate privileges that their planet has granted; we have to wonder in all fairness if they deserve to enjoy the blessings that their planet has been so liberal in granting. It asks for nothing more in exchange that we do not interfere with her grand design to ensure the prosperity; welfare and survival of as many species as possible –not just humanity. We are wracked with fatigue on their behalf; campaigning to save the planet on behalf of all those ingrates; who continue to

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undermine our potential for reform at every possible opportunity they get. But the ingrates still continue to consume more and destroy more.

If a plant is innocent of all crimes to our “civilised society” and inhabited areas; why uproot it if unnecessary to subsist? Why hasten to fell it? This example occurs with humanity’s manic desire to destroy natural vegetation –ignoring all the natural advantages –including the example of South Africa’s plant xenophobia and maniacal suburban tree felling. It’s as if people not only fail to recognise the value of other organic components other than humans themselves –flora and fauna; but also, the necessity/ such practical benefits that our planet has… Until humans can equate or surpass the functionality of others and communicate with them. Until they can prove; that they alone; of all species in this universe are autarchic and are not dependent upon any other living species or organism–until they are not dependent upon any species for our continued way of being... they should learn gratitude; empathy; understanding and tolerance of other species... If it is possible for people such as the Buddha; Jainists; Pythagoras; Gandhi; Count Leo Tolstoy and Leonardo Da Vinci to even be vegetarians, with commitments to aid and value other species/ to be at peace not hostile to others that we coinhabit this spheroid with; then it is possible for those such as we to follow these human examples –even if not all the time… but as often as we are humanely able to…. The welfare of those animals whom are dependent upon us –pets; farm animals –those in entertainment; should be as much of attention as those we cherish –in friends; family and work colleagues… There can be nothing more indicative of pure malevolent evil/ vice then those who care nothing about other species; the planet or the set of unique and irreplaceable conditions of incomparable value that made everything they prize/ value/ achieved worth

There is however so much we can do to atone for the damage that many generations have done. Or what we personally have contributed to the degrading and devastation wracked upon our world. We can all plant a tree or another botanical thing to restore natural beauty in our lives and this world. Or at least help to modify our rapacious behaviour/ or indifference to the plight of other species. It would not hurt us in anyway if we considered the ethics of our materialist choices. Do we really need so much stuff? Of that we do need, why cannot a part of it consist of recycled matter? We could promote recycling far more frequently than extant. Recycling banks could be placed at ever school; every major workplace; every government agency/ bureau and department; every suburb; ever park; every tourist attraction and every factory. Every home could copy the European Union example of adding recyclable bags to every household and then arranging collection weekly. Each of us could depose recyclable stuff in these; or the nearest one for the places we visit, study or work. We could finally yield an affirmative answer to the question: “What have you done on behalf of the planet? Or What have you done, to save the environment? 265

Sponsoring arts and crafts composed of rubbish junk... –fashions –as in University rag week auctions.

Promote local produce and alternatives to reduce our “carbon footprint.” Purge illegal dumping and those throwing things out of windows. Cigarettes still

smouldering cause a significant proportion of forest fires from Andalucía and Galicia to California. Contrary to popular belief, carbon filter paper is non-biodegradable too.

When public transport exists or pedestrian facilities do –we should use them. These could be subsidised by car users –to discourage them. More mass transit systems need to connect the Third World –especially the poor/ middle classes.

o Carpooling –is a sensible proposition to adopt; for those who work in the same place. Why multiply the bother of more trips and fuel expenses –especially if you are going to the same work environment/ shopping centre etc –are close as the price of petroleum continues to increase based on its virtual price inelasticity and monopoly. Oh because for so long technological development into other options was stalled). Other forms including walking/cycling/public transport should be endorsed equally or moreto avert their decline –healthier; more flexible; cost efficient; eco-friendly –and when it comes to many cities –can even be faster to those experiencing traffic congestions. Already; the cities are becoming unsustainable megalopolises, edge cities and exurbs –reams and reams of shops and firms on the peripheries of settlements –suicide for practically any who foolishly seeks to exert that aeon old prerogative of humanity –the exercise of which; s becoming progressively rarer and rarer... Therefore; we who believe in environmentalism –as something more than a mere parroted slogan and wish to transform the world to favour the terrestrial biosThyhere first... –wish to champion this right to walk –and the establishment of cities/ areas to be pedestrianised... We want pedestrians/public transport to be recognised; endorsed; appreciated and celebrated...

o Energy efficient lightbulbs could be made compulsory in all countries –not just those of the First and Second World. Apart from financial penalties such as fines and financial incentives such as providing tax credits etc.; one of the main forms of compelling people to follow these regulations –adopting lightbulbs and others –is to prohibit manufacturing of less efficient incandescent and other alternatives...

We can and ought to oppose and challenge non-environmentally sustainable projects/ developments; where the environmental/ societal costs exceed any short-term profit. We can also hold community/politicians to account, petition, deluge/ over-swarm them –266

particularly prior; during and immediately after an election campaign –for the countries susceptible to democratic pressure. To do so; we could utilise electronic mediums and the power of the media/ community. If we; the community; the intelligentsia and the media; take environmentalism seriously enough... then governments; commerce and industry will also have to. The only way to make democracy a force to be respected and empowered –is to get involved –and to pressurise leadership to efficaciously prioritise the issues which most affect us. Our survival and that of all species; is clearly among the most significant...

Common sense dictates that while we cannot eradicate our impact completely in the short term, we can at least reduce it. The plethora of ways to do this include taking all non-recyclable material/ (noting a separate bag for recyclable material) –and crush them –compressing them so that it occupies less space in the landfill etc. As with so many policies; the First World should help the Second and Third Worlds to achieve all of these objectives. When it comes to the environment and externalities (to quote the radiation effects of Chernobyl in 1986 –among others –as far as Sweden and even Great Britain); we are all connected as human beings. It would make sense to provide it at a cheapened rate over that of conventional industry. This is because of the bequest of materialism; that the Westernised world views as its mandate and blessing of cultural enrichment upon the developing nations.

We need to find out our environmental priorities. We need to find out what the environment needs and what the community needs. There also has to be a way to find out what exactly it would take to convince people to join this colossal struggle, given they appear immune to efforts so far. We need to find out what companies are prepared to offer as compromises and concessions –and government to arbitrate. They cannot be hard to find or or to tackle! Perhaps we personally can do more to defend our environment; to recycle and to conserve. We can volunteer to lessen our impact here; to reduce our dependency on materialism and to help other species by treating them more fairly. Perhaps we could donate more of our resources; time; energy –even thoughtpower to considering not just our own species. Perhaps we could volunteer to become more organic consumers –concerned with the ethics of what we eat. We could refrain from such vast portions and forsake meat. Fast occasionally or eat much more healthily and environmentally friendly than many of us currently do at the moment… far more often. It would help the lives of those we spared. It certainly wouldn’t harm us or our bank balances. We could consider the environment implications of our actions or our lethargy. For example; is that light switch abandoned on or appliance on standby; really necessary?

Our world would be so much better if we were to unite. We can ban junk mail more than a single leaflet. We can condemn the huge plethora of supplements unwanted in the weekend papers in which circulation and manufacture of single issue of a single popular

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main paper –an consume an entire forest or commercial plantation. The best way to demonstrate that we as consumers personally do not need these things and excess packaging/other junk of manufacturers and retailers –is to acquire all the junk in the neighbourhood. Some volunteer to deliver the unwanted junk to the guilty stores/ companies/ factories/ media outlets/ governments directly concerned, complete with suitable ire and contemptuous messages expressing the fact that it is unwanted. We could boycott high pollutants; junk mail and non-eco-friendly products –with only slight modifications to the affluent and middle class... Income does not conflate with ethics –it helps to support it and make it compatible…. However; when one has income –and still insists on being environmentally destructive; one has even less justification than the poor to use the specious argument of economising –choosing the most cost effective rather than the most environmentally harmonious alternative.

Stop buying online –At first effect one would think that electronic purchases are more environmentally friendly. But is it??? The flotilla of vessels and armadas of planes; drones, trucks and trains that have to service multiple different routes in addition to current traffic; only augments the all too extant pollutants residual in the stratosphere. The impact upon the natural world is horrendous... multiplying trips –that could be done on foot, bicycle or public transport... Rather than just driving to do a walk or use a gym –why not set up a regular walking routine, we can even do it socially. Exploring the city and suburb on foot –can be more enriching than by car. In the traffic choked several lanes of backed up traffic –it may even be a lot quicker...

We in developing countries, could all spread the desire that large families are culturally undesirable. Support planning and population restraint. Those in developed countries –could offer services to the developing. Demographic explosions are undesirable from a poverty eradication objective as well as an environmental one. Over the definite scarcity of resources, they are not infinite but finite. Politically; those in the developed world could demand more of their politicians when it comes to the environment for there can be nothing else that is of inherent self-interest as well as that of collective interest. Nothing matters or ought to matter more from the views of all species. Democracy is all about appeasing the most vociferous constituents –especially when elections are pending.

The environment could be a condition of aid. At the moment aid lacks sufficient incentives. Equally it could benefit the expansion of jobs in a sustainable sector... The environment has to be valued for what it is. No electronic simulation or mirage, could even possibly hope to replicate the experiences; sensations and emotions conveyed by the real thing I.e. being free to roam and discover the natural splendour of Gaia –her magnificence; ornate and intricate web of life and overwhelming terrain. The environment provides the resources –for the rest of our economy –for all nations on this planet. It is not us; who

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artificially is responsible for creating what our planet has; hitherto provided free, without discrimination; expense or apparent consequence... until this era!

What a world we live in. Its one in which the most important things such as our very world; are ignored by so many; who refuse to do their part. But most of all, if we are devoted to this fragile ecosystem that has nourished us for so long; we can strive to lead by personal example. We can promote the cause to those dearest to us and most willing to listen. We could change our consumer habits and our lifestyles to favour environmentalism, while boycotting those companies and politicians who lobby for pollutant industries and a polluting lifestyle –desiring the extermination of our race and the dearth of our world, (Hey as long as the executives get their short-term bonuses to escape the eco damage they’ve caused everyone else –in a less tainted environment and the corporate shareholders get their dividends). Perhaps consumer sovereignty and customer purchasing power might actually mean something then. We can spread this through the Power of Social Networking in the Digital Age.

What right have we to exist more than others; whom have all had virtually minimal or fictional influence on supplanting their environment and the limits that Nature artificially established for each species –in numbers; mortality and environment limit barriers? We could pay more attention to other species by looking more often at where we walk and to intrude upon other species as little as possible. Besides; most of them, do not want to be paraded for our entertainment; experimented or even involved in our affairs. They merely want; like any other sentient and conscious being on this planet; to be left alone; free to pursue their own dreams; lives and destinies.

The media too could help to promote the issue. At the moment too many often lack scientific data to support their presenting of climatic issues. They could be doing more to realise the implications that environmentalist challenges will have for humanity. After all; it is their planet too, is it not? There will be no sensationalism involved. For climate change is already starting to have major effects on us all, especially meteorological anomalies. But how often is the natural environment or the interests of other species even persuaded. How often do they listen or are interested to do with anything –either positive or negative, concerned at all to do with their environment and world? Too often; they simplify the issue and fail to take the heroic if naive attempts at campaigners to seek not only public awareness; but meaningful support and action. Given how much drama, controversy, physical action and other factors –even without sensationalism there is far more that the paparazzi could do for the environment. E.g. offering Community Watch reader columns and editorials for them to participate in.

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They could publish the stories of those trying to promulgate the cause; or to take their perspectives seriously, by interviewing demonstrators and protesters to understand their often-genuine concerns. They could sponsor competitions and run events to foster greater natural awareness. Popularist celebrities so actively worshipped, could spread the message about how “cool” it is to save the planet and be a part of the planetary conservation warrior force/New Order. This might be the price of their ephemeral publicity and fame. There could be greater news coverage of issues and events –even feature and environmental investigative/conservation inspired programmes like the long running, venerable natural conservation and current affairs programme 50/50 as part of the South African Broadcasting Corporation programming. The media could run a serious of features opting people to participate, acknowledge and identify the greatest malefactors and criminals. Or even minor ones in the community as well as elucidating them of their rights and legal/other potential recourses. They are among the most influential forces that exist in this era –shaping and fabricating global culture. A globalised network of beings –relate more to this culture and virtual basis rather than that of the current world… They might as well utilise their capacity to save the planet rather than just passively exalt, gloat and revel in the misfortunes of those that are trying; simpering to those that are failing or plundering as bloodthirsty corsairs. Or even worse; try to sap the activist ethos and spirit that is crucial focussing on a way forward. Stop providing a diversion from reality, unless it is to show a glimpse of the horrors that will come to pass or the Arcadia that might be. After all; it was the self-indulgence and hedonism that caused aeons of neglect of the natural alternative. Otherwise; what use can they possibly be?

There is nothing –not even any corporation or totalitarian regime; that is seriously infringing upon most people’s ethical/ personal choice to commit to saving their world. Most of it is pure lethargy or preoccupation with trivia/mundane tedium or the inconsequential. Is the death of a single species; really worth something that is transient and disposal; with no material attachment? Is it worth forsaking for something that soon will be discarded for the next consumer fad that society craves; having fallen for it? Even if you do not do anything on behalf of humans –and they unmove you –there must be some species that matters to you? Even if its a pet or a preferred food or plant species… After all; how anti –life; can a soul be? Why hesitate to do anything? Do the climate change disaster films not graphically spell it out –if nothing else persuades you? Incidentally; there is nothing to stop us from voluntarily choosing to live a more ecologically balanced lifestyle; to donate or to join an environmental organisation. Or even to turn a superfluous light off, or appliance on standby. There is nothing to prevent us from choosing to save other species –or to be more tolerant towards it (Although some might say this should start with humans first –but not every person regards a human’s life as valuable). Anyone who has

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ever experienced less pleasant aspects (short of being a saint) may concur that something needs to be done and can be done.

Even if all these small steps appear only tokens to resolve the terrestrial scale war against pollutants we face ourselves with, it’s a start. It’s something. Only if we prepare to make real sacrifices in defence of our world can we truly justify our existence. Only can we validate our right to survive on this planet –free; pro bono; complimentary to Gaia... At the moment our aeon old party may have been great. But now the music has stopped; resources are running low and somebody has to think about how to pay for it. It is the curse and bane of our age –we youth will have to pay for the mistakes of our parents and forebears. But if we don’t; not only will there be no more parties, there will be no more lives. Or memories to even remember what one could be, let alone; actually is. It may have been great while it lasted for those that benefitted. But now that we have to pay for their mistakes; we have to decide is the cost worth it? What price do we want to pay now; compared to the compound interest of the future?

CONCLUDIUM:

In conclusion; the Way of Gaia is our way forward for humans and their planet. It is more than a mere philosophy of life. It is a way to synchronise environmentalism with realistic pragmaticism. Only by encapsulating our terrestrial environment into our religious beliefs; our code of personal ethics or conscience; our thoughts; our politics; our economy; our philosophy and our action; will the Way of Gaia be truly followed. It is how we live that is meaningful. It is what we choose to do about something; not what we ought to do but hypocritically do not; that truly matters in life –This extends most vitally; to the ecosystem too. Our covenant with our environment –with other species; matters just as much for our continued survival as the fragile Social Contract (where we used society and government;

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to live with each other and survive. Protogenesis details how we can envision a new synergistic existence; in which we are holistic –at one with not only ourselves but with other species and ourselves. The history of the ecological movement; the Dune Approach and Small Steps; all clarify how it is possible to reform our ways in order to ensure our continued presence. The guidelines for each individual continent show what is necessary to perpetuate such harmony; restoring balance. After all; it’s all about the cosmic; natural balance. If we learn to live with our natural terrain as well as we learn to live with other species; it can only help us to live with ourselves. Besides; we have so much to potentially gain from conservation, research and the improving of conditions for others.

If it is not about the planet if all life, (including humanity), exists as dependent upon other species for their survival –mutual synergy; then what else is it possibly about? Materialism? Why? How will that save them in the end? Do we really need so much? Is affluenza really worth dismissing the impact of our species upon the world? Think about it logically. How could seven billion enjoy the same welfare based on maximising resource consumption without replenishing or innovating ecologically. Especially if so much has been catastrophically wrought by a mere historic few hundred million or even just a billion? We devote an infinitesimally small amount to rectifying our generation spanning colossal mistakes and blunders, whether environmental protecting our planet and even to warnings/monitoring, let alone researching the ways to expand our horizons and survival as a species… Do we care about what really matters? Our previous actions suggest not. But if so; why not? We may not be able to convince everyone of the need to reform but this treatise can help to persuade those who care anything for this world.

The ascent of natural pestilences and disasters; represents our planet’s own attempt to dissuade our species from the ultimate acts of hubris; of defiance. This has the consequences not only of their impending suicide, but also the extinction of us all, if we do not act before it’s too late. Who cares if it is not popular? Slavery, democracy, suffragettes and civic rights like anything truly radical were unpopular and criticised. But where would most of the world be if they had failed to fight and implement these advances? Would we be worse off without these? But the moment of reform has happened. There is no point seeking further diagnostics or more information. We know about the issue! Time to face the reality. The problem has happened. We now have to make powerful sacrifices. If our leaders stall then we will challenge them. If we evade the planet will determine not just our fate but the fate of us all, blindly. Is that what we want? Or do we want to change so that we can at least have some evidence over the conclusion? Only you can decide that for yourself? Do you want things to change for the worse or for the better? If you don’t care either way –others will decide for you. That is why it matters so much…

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Why the reticence? Why the reluctance? Where is the sense in destroying the only planet capable of supporting us? How brilliant is that? Why waste so much time and energy to solving the wrong problems and petty issues that plague our species? Take the current political leadership for instance. They are more like eco cowards! There is not one who champions the environmentalist movement or philosophy. Whether socialist; capitalist or communist; whether aristocracy; plutocracy; republican; democratic; federalist; monarchist; absolutist or fascist; whether monotheist or atheist... not one major religious or political leader of any substance has championed the cause and accorded it higher priority than economics. Prices should reflect the ecological truth as much as possible including scarcity and the possible threat of conviction. In the midst of a grave ecological crisis –what is obsessing the First; Second and Third World powers? The Great Recession... Why should we concern ourselves with reviving the moribund and decrepit old ways of global imperialism, when they so evidently failed economically... socially... politically... and environmentally! Why retain what clearly doesn’t work; when we could be at the precursor of an Ecological Age? We could be at the start of a great chapter in human history that makes the future potentially available for us to prevail? By reforming; we have this chance.

Gaia does not bail out. We cannot always do as we like. It is a fallacy to expect that there are no costs or consequences to our actions or our lethargy. It is dangerous to expect mercy from our ravaged; blighted world, who has every incentive of several thousand years of neglect and decay; to demonstrate vengeance not mercy upon us. This may be the dawn of a new Age of Uncertainty – one of the environment. If we continue at our current; unsustainable pace; there can be no denying it, we are doomed. Look at it like this: The revolution is about us! The way forward is our choice! It all condenses to the simple desire of whether we want our planet or not? Do we want to inhabit it? At the moment; we know that we cannot endure like this forever… To those who ask; “Can there be any alternatives?” This treatise suggests that it is possible –if we are willing to try. Nothing in our current state of affairs or our technology dismisses it as an actuality

To summarise this ecological treatise:

So what can we learn from this? Lessons from ecological history and from history in general; include that humans only respond to the need to change, when they face an imminent disaster. They do not suggest that we are prepared for the aftermath or duration of the planet’s vengeance strike. They do not suggest that we are prepared for all forms of ecological uncertainty. Additionally; is it feasible to expand human demographic/ economic growth; given the strain on existing resources? No – the Earth has exceeded its population limit. It only has a finite capacity for the human species and scarce, finite resources to sustain them, given food. Are our actions for improving the environment; a

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deadweight and hinderance or an asset to our standards of living? Can we ensure there will be enough resources for our need not our greed as there always has been; courtesy of the planet, for aeons...

This approach has shown the various governments; organisations; commerce leaders and individuals who are prepared to try. From Africa, Asia, Europa, Oceania, South America... From North America and the Caribbean, these examples have shown and continue to illustrate that the necessary reforms do exist and that victories are possible –despite potential opposition that may exist. There are ways forward to us and options open, if we have leadership and people willing to resolve this. We haven’t failed yet; but there is so much more we need to do. Adopting these reforms is a necessary start but only a start. If we manage to attain even a fraction of these, we can at least delay the impact. It is possible to protract the inevitable. But the patience of the planet to concede this is draining. As is the absorptive capacity for our contamination –perilous, even if we were to never produce anything else and merely had to contend with existing overproduction of globalisation and history’s often highly materialist culture and environment. We need to mitigate the circumstances of pain and suffering that will face all in the future, even the rich and influential even if we are currently not experiencing them at the present.

“I look forward to the time when the rage of destruction will have disappeared, when the senseless slaughter of the wild fauna will be as criminal and contrary to public opinion; -as cruelty to humans, and when those who love the wilds, their shy denizens and intimate ways, will come from all parts of the Earth to find peace and refreshment in Africa. Africa, in spite of all chance, will still remain, Africa, and its most distinctive features among the continents will continue to be its untamed wilderness, its aloofness and solitude and its mysterious, eerie brooding spirit. Why destroy this?”

South African Prime Minister; Statesman; Field Marshal of the British Empire; the creator of the Union and Royal Air Forces and Founding Philosopher of Holism; Jan Christian Smuts.

What are we working towards? The Dune Approach will provide a coordinated response strategy incorporating climate restoration, food security, ecological literacy and environmental research to the problems of a new economy, with the psychological means of conditioning humanity to accept it. No longer can it be a question of the global economy and civilisation taking precedence. The market price of people’s willingness to pay to preserve their environment versus their willingness to accept monetary compensation; tests their allegiance/faith. Also, if people are to be sincere they need to be willing to exercise the powers of consumer sovereignty that they do have at their disposal At least demand more information about products to make their decision/urge companies to be more environmentally conscious. Then there is taxation. If people do not find the allocation of their tax revenues as pro-environmental/ pro-citizen rather than military/

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subsidising politicians and corporations and they fail to do something about it and hold them to account/vote them out; then they cannot complain when things continue the way they are or even get worse. It is the same with legislation. People have the power to press for pro-environmental legislation. It is that desire that we wish to encourage.

We also envision a world where people see that salvaging our natural heritage not desecrating it makes perfect common sense and is the only way forward. We also envision a world where people are proud to see themselves as citizens of the planet, with a world and a future to defend and principles worth believing in. This entails uniting themselves to feel a closer, necessary connection to other species and the terrain they are in, with a value, rather than seeing it as essentially worthless; as many of them basically do. We envision a world where the environment is the epicentre; the fulcrum; the centroid of human concern of work; religion; the community; economy and politics. There is also a dream to make people desire to utilise the social power at their disposal. This means compelling companies to change via the power of broadcasting through social technology and networking to expose environmental catastrophes/ neglect or abuse. It aspires to advertise public environmental dissent to mobilise audiences and participants into active protest and support.

Above all else, we believe that the only way to save humanity and all species; the only way to ensure the survival of all that has been achieved, is to work towards saving the planet. All other objectives should be subordinate until we can ensure the long-term sustainability and survival of all living inhabitants – flora; fauna and fungi –at ecologically optimal levels, capable of self–sustaining regeneration. This is as Gaia and the Elementals intended and achieved for entire epoch without us. We also adhere to the principle that Life –all life; exists in the service of life. We as curators –are enshrined to preserving our natural heritage for the future and accentuating our efforts. Given millennia of neglect and plunder. We will seek to persuade other human beings of the imperative nature of this – the Ultimate, most essential cause of our age. For without it we will not have the resources, the time and the opportunity to resolve all other problems. Many of which –including the 2008 financial crisis; that the world of humans is so obsessed about; are utterly comparatively resolvable and meaningless. For the first time since perhaps the extinction of the dinosaurs -not just the fate of a few dozen or even thousands of species is upon us… But perhaps even more. It is time to ask; what we intend to do about it? Do we intend to justly idly let it pass by? Or do we actually do something about it and act?

The choice that policy makers; the media and so many of the so–called, illustrious powers that attempt to govern in this Age of Globalisation (yet are so clearly failing); is not really a choice any more than so many of us would choose between Life and Death if given the choice. And yet; that is what it ultimately extends to, given the potential climatic

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abrasions that will soon occur and the harrowing aftermath… And yet; our leadership are failing us –where we most need them to commit; to guide to act and not just to merely pontificate and gesticulate on frivolous gestures that change nothing… Many perhaps accelerate the problem… How could we possibly continue to support those that are so against Life and Gaia herself? Why else would practically every government automatically repress and treat those eco activists seeking to defend their homeworld… as criminals? Why do they protect the polluting lobbyists that rape the planet and not endorse ecologically sustainable alternatives and reforms? Why do they not ask people – even those willing; to help participate in the effort of conservation and ensuring a planet conscious future? Why do they not implement the ideas that so many academics; organisations, individuals and the efforts of those all too few corporations and governments that do listen and establish some reforms? Why are they so afraid to commit and to do something about it? Or to turn to those who can? How many governments can look their citizens in the eye – and actually state with full candour that they really are trying and have done something to make a difference?

Various arguments outlined in debate can be summarised as verifying the real purpose of conservation and various means to justify environmentalism against perceived flawed arguments claimed by those opposing it. We with ethics, principles, pragmaticism and ecological awareness as well as empathy for other species find the arguments against the rights, exploitation and the torment of them as mere chattel or property; the lack of emancipation, the rape of landscape/seascape/aether unsatisfactory. We do not believe that such is a worthy legacy for our species to be remembered for. If failures are to be remembered to the same extent as our successes are, we may be doomed. We do not however have to be so sadistic. It is not impossible to address the concerns of our opponents as well as those harbouring monumental (as well as minor/trivial critiques) doubts as this treatise and others have sought to answer and rectify.

However; debates can only take us so far... We must never forget the most significant questions that we could ask of ourselves at every step: “Who are we fighting for? What are we fighting for? Why do we seek to change our ecological relationship –with other species and with our planet -and how can we? We are fighting for our planet. We are fighting for whomever we belief in. We are fighting for other species. We are fighting because we have a heart and care for the future. We are fighting for those treasured by this. We are fighting to ensure that everything we most value, which in our experience exists on this world and none other. But most of all; we are fighting for ourselves – so that the future stands greater surety for us and our descendants; then it did for our forebears and others of the present generation. For one thing; we recognise; that it is time to be sincere, not hypocritical about our position as curators and self-styled mortal masters of this planet. It has to mean something; not just empty words. We do not want to choose 276

between the false choices of preservation versus economic development. Through ecotourism; clean energy; recycling and other policies, the two are not incompatible. We want to make it impossible for environmental disasters on the magnitude of the Exxon Valduz oil tanker spill in Alaska 1987 or the oil spills by BP in the Gulf of Mexico. We wish to avert the compound expansion of species extinction and the increasing eradication of biodiversity. We wish to rehabilitate as much of the planet as we can and reform our ways so that we might follow Gaia instead.

The Dune Approach encapsulates the need to safeguard our ecological heritage and swear to protect it always from those who value profits over everything else. It is obvious what is significant and fundamental to our existence. So why are so many so blind? Self –advantage –moral hazard is obvious… but how can we ensure that we make them modify their behaviour –or deal with it. Above all else; we can never surrender to those who seek to eradicate it, thinking only of the short term. How could any sane being possibly tolerate, let alone support and endorse such? These beings that are unreformable and cannot be persuaded to change to an eco–conscious society, economy, religion, philosophy and political system; avoiding speciesism; that lives organically and seeks synergy, symbiosis and to learn/understand the best of all species –averting extinctions caused by humanity; will be purged! For those that do not embrace life and serve as the antithesis of life, surely they do not deserve the privilege of life? And yet; so many whether consciously, subconsciously or unconsciously lack this basic psychology…

So ho w do we progress forward? This can be personally achieved through Small Steps and Common Sense. Companies can follow precepts on: How to Reform; while proposed Government Legislation has its own chapter as examined. Whether through criminal sentences of fines to community service litter patrol or being choked on your own garbage. Not only does most of the human world need legislation; it also needs successful prosecution. Taxes; standards’ quotas’ permits; a cap and trade system, regulation; credits, tax rebates, bursaries, loans; scholarships; fines; all should reflect incentives to change approaches to the environment of Earth. We cannot rely on politicians; civil servants and businesses with ulterior motives, we can only rely upon ourselves. If we do not show ourselves to be worth saving; not only will we perish, but we will deserve our collective fates as a species incurring the consequences of our own actions, no matter what they might possibly be… We might be helpless in so many areas (or appear to be). But there are many steps that; individually; socially and collectively can undertake to how that we are worthy of the ultimate privilege Gaia –our Matriarch has afforded to us. This includes living on the only world that we know of; out of the billions scattered through the infinite celestial aether of the Macrocosmos. But even privileges cannot be taken for granted. There arises the responsibility to protect…

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It would be interesting to envision the chaos that will follow at humanity’s lack of adaptation to the reality of the ecological and climatological reaction of vengeance that is inevitable; pending a lack of human intervention and concern. How will the human condition react to the drowned world; -where all our apparent technological advances; so many rely upon; are completely submerged from us? What will happen to our species –and that of others; once the last ones of every species disappear? Perhaps we will only appreciate the natural environment once it has disappeared. But what a tragic loss that would be! People and sentient beings of all species, would be far poorer than they are now – assuming they survived. Besides, by then; it would be too late. We have to motivate the human species to act now. This is while we have enough flexibility to resurrect the environment and while sufficient species/parks/resources remain; to remind everyone; of what they owe to Nature. It will prompt people’s memories to remember what the planet was and what it could possibly be. The psychological motivation to commit humanity remains crucial We have to avoid complacency; doubt; scepticism and denial! Prosecute the denialists; who refuse to see the evidence of their own senses. It is only through the Gods and Gaia; that our world hasn’t yet collapsed, despite human efforts, to initiate an environmental catastrophe that would render our world dormant and lifeless.

Yet for all these proposals; what are we actually doing about our planet’s future and our own? It is not enough merely to fantasise about an Ecological Utopia or new Age of Conservation o to dream of change if that transpires and goes nowhere. Do we do enough? Do we make any effort –no matter how small? Are the authors of these proposals being listened to? Are they sufficiently publicising their views and lobbying for support? Do they live by a set personal example or at least try not to be brazen hypocrites? Only those who value the environment; their world and life itself; sufficient enough to act –not just in thought; will be considered worthy enough in the future. Greenpeace; the Sierra Club; the Environmental Defence Fund and organisations like them deserve every bit of support that we can muster. The sooner; governments realise their importance –based on the adulation and support that their voters and taxpayers provide NGO’s and other fighters of the cause; the sooner; they will be persuaded to listen and to actually do something to reform. We cannot merely rely on those organisations to fight the cause. For without the community and individuals; their efforts will continue to flounder. We can all afford to exert the energy and effort that could establish a Paradise of the environment, like the fabled Aureal Ages of myths and legends or a greater approximation to that ideal; than anything globalisation has produced so far. We could easily afford to recycle; to favour a more eco–conscious and eco literate world. Recycling costs nothing and other reforms cost little, especially compared to our mistakes that we previously chose to invest in such as the arms race.

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What are our priorities? What are those things we wish to achieve? How do we view our world? Is it just another disposable thing? What are our relationships with our pets/with those of other species? What is the nature of the world that we wish to live in? Are we seeking to make our dreams a reality and to make that scene possible? If not; why not? How can we claim that we are humans – living; conscious, sentient beings with the potential for blessings; for achievement; capacity and for potential and not think about these things. If we want to know what can be done and what it means to participate in history –not just to spectate and merely to gestate. Once we have these ideas, to know the cause we wish to devote ourselves to and passionately commit ourselves to others; we can then wonder about persuading others to follow.

What else can conservation be about? What else can it mean but the ethic not of entitlement but of respect and responsibility as stewards for not just our present generation –but also for future generations. This means realising that we are just one of many species; occupying an increasingly overcrowded planet, the sole one that is currently known to have life and be capable of bearing in it. Surely that has an irreplaceable value? Simple blogging and publicity will not be enough. It will have no effect whatsoever on the planet; our attitudes and our actions/thoughts have to change to favour conservation and to do something about it. Is the current state of publicity; education and media committed to this. Or are they just pretending to? Is it not time that we seriously prioritised the issue and asked the question to each person directly; enquiring of ourselves: “Is this the kind of world with which we are satisfied?” “What kind of environment do we want to live in and what –we as individuals can personally do to achieve it?” We need to take responsibility for our actions and our fate.

In summation –the way of Gaia encapsulates our belief in the destiny and potential of our planet, especially as the ultimate Source of blessings and benefits. The planet is benevolent as well as pragmatic. We have to remember what it is all about. It’s not just a question of ethics, economics, practicality or survival. We have had so much and we are in danger of losing what remains. Do we not want to preserve our environment so that not only our generations but that of future generations have that which so many humans have taken for granted for far too many centuries? Why not value what we have but strive Why not only preserve what remains; but enhance it? To excel and revive upon our ecological heritage and relationship. For those that fail to be convinced compare the bleak, desolate plains and industrial wastelands or toxic mires of human excrement upon their planet. Compare and contrast with what remains of Nature’s species of flora and fauna; the grandeur and grandiloquence of the terrestrial landscapes. Which is preferable? Are these places not worth conserving? If there is beauty; nature; inspiration; hope; potential; if there are the dreams that will solve the problems of humanity - environmental; medical; emotional;’ physical; economic; social; academic; it lies in our planet. After all; whom else 279

is better qualified, with aeons upon aeons of experience? It is not just about bombastic rhetoric, it is about making a difference in any way one can rather than contribute to the willing planetcide that humanity seems so desperately to want to inexplicably undertake. Given that the ecological catastrophe will worsen with time; let us do something while our actions can matter. We aim to make a difference; so that future generations; in a storm wracked; Apocalyptic future do not eternally as our world resembles the Ghost of Paradise. If this world does not appear like Elysium to many… compared to what will follow as an inevitable tragedy from our current suicidal; warfare; speciest; anti planetary attitude; it will be…

No one else can save us other than ourselves. Only those that are concerned about their planet appear to recognise this. And yet; just what are we prepared to do to assure ourselves of a future? Contrary to what those opponents of environmentalism so disparagingly say to the contrary; it is not as if many inhabitants of the world aren’t unreasonable and are so averse to actually doing anything; paying more; sacrificing more; caring more; getting involved more, provided others are doing it. This hopes that their faith; community; government; work and fellow human beings are all doing their part –rather than seem to be free riding upon others making the effort and the sacrifice. If our leaders are failing us; we have to seriously ask: Why those in power and influence are not doing more to mobilise us on these issues? Why they are not willing to contribute to serious meaningful effort to resolve the social; ecological and other issues that the plundering of our planet will wrought? We have to wonder why they are so reluctant to embrace not just the good. But the need for us to do something about this; most looming of problems –without which there will be no chance to change anything?

Why are so few political regimes not prioritising the Green economy as the salvation to both economic and environmental problems (not to mention social; political; religious and others)? Why does nobody who occupies any position of prominence or influence it use it to demonstrate the validity of the cause, especially affirming their beliefs by setting a personal example for others to follow? Why do so few demagogues seriously attempt to make any effort over these issues? Do none of them care? What will it take to persuade them and the rest of humanity? What is necessary to be a sufficiently compelling argument for conservation above everything else. For then we will have the leisure and the opportunity to be affected. Will it take more deaths and the devastation across most of the known world –for Earth to turn into Mars (which has evidence of former life) or the Moon; before humanity can put aside everyone and everything else trivial? Or at least give it to those willing to achieve something! Is it time for our race to give up; given everything that we have achieved and excelled in? Survival alone would be an impressive achievement amid such a statistical improbability. This planet of life against the hostile conditions of the Universe –and our species against all manner of the Fates. But that is not 280

all we have accomplished…. Why should we come so far? Why should we be so willing to end it now? Have we given up; without even finding out; if there is more to life and everything than from our one spheroid alone?

Are we up to the challenges that the natural environment will continue to hurl at us; as a result of climate change/ global warming? Are we prepared for every mistake that humans have made with respect to their natural habitat and its biodiversity? Can we resolve these challenges –or will we continue to let them defeat us? Tick tock! Tick tock! Tick Tock! Time is running out. So are the resources; the species; and it appears increasingly the will; effort; hope; inspiration; energy and zeal necessary. Only Chronus; Gaia and the Olympians will tell. If so –fine! We gain the ultimate natural and celestial gift –the liberty to continue and excel. If not; well... that can only be partially resolved by books such as this. But; we would be mistaken, if books alone hold all the answers. What matters most-is that we get humans –the species with the singlemost impact upon the planet and the most lethal, to do something. It is equally important for them to see the purpose of saving this world. They must believe in it. Planetology and the cause of Gaia is something that every human can believe. Whether atheist; monotheist; polytheist; agnostic or whatever, believing in our human potential to both save our planet in an Ecological Era of Civilisations and in a real Space Age.

For what could be more solid; more tangible; more valuable; more believable; more sacred and necessary; then our world. It remains the foremost source that we are conscientiously aware of in the entire Universe. Think about it… Given all our achievements and impacts –our contributions and our legacies for better or for worse, would any of them have been possible without sufficient environmental conditions necessary and indispensable for the human race to flourish to the extent it has. Is it really so much; not to acknowledge our planet’s role as the source of all this. This is not to belittle the human capacity and scope of potential accomplishment. But rather to point out that it was our planet –the ecosystem and anthromorphism Gaia that made life possible for us. After all; we could have ended up like any other potential planet in our galaxy…. –destitute of life –barren… soulless… infertile… bleak… desolate wilderness. Do we really want this? If so; then why is so much of human impact; from the warfare mentality onwards seem so devoted to guaranteeing that this horrendous future is enshrined? Why does it appear mandated not just by government but ordained by popular consensus which implicitly is backing this?

Although many people will contest this arguing: What choice do we really have? What can we really do to have a physical impact upon our planet? We do have a choice. We have many in fact. But essentially, we have two options; in considering these choices. Do we wish to continue on the materialist; anti-environment path of globalisation we are on –which measures progress; contentment and achievement in terms of wealth; status;

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influence and materialist values? Or do we seek one which is concerned more about the quality of life and the environment/our fellow species and ourselves as individuals? It is not essential for our future to have been preordained by other humans. It is not essential for us to continue as we are… without hope or the dream of anything better; no matter what is commonly assumed; we can create the history and the future that we desire to participate in. We can choose to exercise the prerogative of free will rather than letting others do it for us. We can choose to show that there are certain common principles that above all else unite us on this planet –and one of them. We can choose to fight or not. The future can be changed. It hasn’t been composed yet… We never know what might possibly happen unless we try. But we can affirm with greater certainty that what will happen is a continuation of things as they are of natural disasters; ecological catastrophes; extinctions; ecological genocide; climatic change and submergence of many archipelagos and coastal regions; the deaths of millions from resource scarcity/heatstroke etc and perhaps even billions from the ensuing chaos that awaits inaction.

Purifying the environment would grant us greater lassitude and freedom to concentrate on resolving other less pressing issues too. But if we don’t; things will continue as they are. And we have to ask ourselves; is that what we truly want? We may differ on the approach and the pace of action that needs to be undertaken. We may differ on the aspects we wish to emphasise as our foremost priorities and concerns. But as human beings and as members of the ecosystem on the terrestrial sphere Gaia – the only definitive source of life within our Universe, let us unite over this one thing; at least whilst we still can do something…

For surely; it is obvious that we have a magnitude of crucial; imperative problems which will not dissolve magically. It is self-evident that they exist and that they cannot continue to threaten all. Even if we cared nothing for the environment or species as valuable or equivalent in their own right; surely extinction/lack of reform/4 degrees Celsius warming the Earth’s surface globally, as a conservative estimate within the next couple of decades would be reason enough to act; for the potential impact that they might have upon us? Let us decide to do something and unite. We could publicly and privately convene to decide how individually and collectively. (We could even place signs in our back gardens to remind us frequently). All of us could take a pledge of allegiance/loyalty as a symbolic commitment to our planet that should not conflict with any beliefs or values or principles/ opinions that we as a species or personally might possess. We can use others as well as ourselves to remind ourselves to do something for our planet; now before it is too late –to try anything and everything…. Even if it means accelerating space chartering and colonisation; if it helps Her to survive. If we remind ourselves on a daily basis; the value and significance of our world’s environment to our own wellbeing and fate; anyone and anything we care for not to mention billions of innocent organic life forms; Even more 282

painful is the thought that at any moment this precarious existence could be wiped out –perhaps by the vengeance of the Furies and Gaia; or our own negligence and thoughtlessness.

Even those who are physically enriched from globalisation or perceive themselves to only benefit from it We ask them and those who feel that they benefit from environmental destruction? What is the opportunity cost? Do we really have everything we desire? Could we not be better off in appreciating our world and her blessings; realising the lessons for Nature –in diet, exercise, equilibrium, moderation, passion, wonder, satisfaction with one’s portion, peace, beauty, solitude, how to live with others and ourselves; symbiosis; efficiency; necessity; survival; crisis; adaptation; health and others under the way of Gaia? In the end we may have our wealth… but are we satisfied? Or do we crave and desire more? Examine our lusts; ambitions; fears; dreams; concerns; wants; needs; impulses; habits and desires. How many of these are satisfied with the bounty of the planet? How much do we owe to the products of the globalised age as by-products of the modern world that claim to resolve all these? Is it really worth it? A more holistic existence would focus only on producing those things. It considers reducing consumption and production of materialist possessions and focusing more on reducing the environmental impact upon the natural world of the things we do need. Why not seek to create more wildernesses; propagate fewer humans and more of other species for their beauty/ ecological use? Does it not make sense if we maximise benefits from the natural world to as many people that the planet is reasonably able to sustain without either consigning the planet to degradation or any species to poverty; pain and agonising misery? Why not aspire to colonise Space as the ultimate adventure that could sustain us and resolve many environmental; political; social; cultural and religious issues. Out there, there is a planet for every group… perhaps every being with a dream…

The environmental crisis is not just about climate change, as is commonly suggested in society; the media and in books. Global warming is about so much more including the Way of Gaia; environmental psychology, avoiding materialism; achieving a list of reforms –and reconfiguring to create a carbon zero, green and organic economy. Economically; a number of ideas could ensure a carbon zero economy with not only long-term benefits but those we could see in our lifetime. Our progressing relationships with other species could change the world. The world could become an Ecological Paradise and a Green Revolution could occur; if these proposals and others are considered and acted upon. People may think that words alone are nothing and they are right! We need to do something –anything! But even just to think about and modify our behaviour would be a tremendous start. For it isn’t enough merely to know about the problem and what to do – or how to do it; our generation has to start to change it and want to. And yet; this is not impossible… as more and more believe in this cause. We can join them. We can unite. We can make a 283

difference –provided we unite and coordinate our efforts. We can prevail as long as we do not surrender or remain apathetic like so many wastrels and degenerates. not only betray the planet and our community; they betray themselves in the principles and beliefs they discard and do not follow… Forget about them, if we cannot persuade them. We have to act now! Our moment is however now. Our opportunity has arisen. Carpe Diem before it vanishes! It may seem weird or futile to advocate this? But how else is it going to happen? Who else is going to try? As human beings we have waited from leadership from others, we have surrendered and abdicated responsibilities… but surely some of us must be willing to act? Do we not have any ideas we’d like to try? Do we not have any vision for the world that we want to live in and achieve? Never believe those who decry this as impossible –that such can never be done. For they are the unworthy that will never amount to anything. They will never know how to live; why to live… or what it means to live. They will not understand what it is to have the great cause worth believing in to dare to dream that it is possible to change the world. They tell us it is hopeless… we must just accept things the way that they are. That nothing will ever change. But why should we be as defeatist as them? Just because so many have given up; doesn’t mean that we have to! We can Carpe Diem. We can put our mind to it and accomplish anything…

There are enough of us that can do something to act and find others equally willing to do so. This is the era, where technology and social networking make it possible to share our dreams, to establish connections. We should find it easier to do something not just personally but to share this dream across the entire planet itself. It is not impossible or insurmountable, as long as we don’t surrender to the apathy/contempt that has swallowed the vitality; life; passion and soul that used to animate so many. Let us seize any opportunity to save our world and ourselves. This desires to benefit from the planet and ensure that it is secured and its survival is certain by minimising the human impact, o the levels that we can sustain and work to mitigate or reduce our impact, in whichever way we are able to do. Regardless of our age; our beliefs; our race; gender; occupation; income; talents; health; education etc… this is the one thing that we can all do something about… that we are not powerless to achieve and that… we are not dependent on leadership to achieve… As this treatise has sought to substantially affirm, we are all capable… We are not small… we are infinite… And moreover; we can add to the infinite through championing the environment and our planet…

If some of us start and try then coordinate our responses, whether through social networking or organising demonstrations or working behind the scenes in our daily lives the decision to enthuse as many people with the notion of change. This means others who share and believe in our dream… of a better world and a better environment, where the quality of our lives; the freedom to choose. This means the ability to benefit from our biosphere’s abundance and to make this a fit place which we want to live in, with our 284

dreams a reality. This is so we can focus on what should matter, as we take personal responsibility for the consequences of our relationships to other species and our connections to this world…

A revolution has to be real. Like any other in history it should entail real sacrifices. Right throughout history; real sacrifices have been necessary to achieve our finest achievements in rights; in the arts that kept our emotions and spirits enthralled and consoled... This is through inventions and advances that transformed our existence; in epic journeys chartering the unknown reaches of our planet; our galaxy and the epicentre of human imagination in battles that determined the future of the modern world. In all that we have achieved and progressed in -from fire to Space to the new Age of Ecological Concern; only toil and commitment; only that won and valiantly fought for, has been worth keeping. Only that alone is worthy of inclusion in the chronicles of Chronus and the Fates. If there are any humans or any sentient creatures of any species that prevail and survive, after all we have done, then what will they think of our age, if we could have acted –and failed to! Will we be worthy of remembrance and immortality? Or will we be the Great Shame airbrushed from our role in history because of our reluctant role to act now –at the propitious and auspicious moment. That is not just for me to decide.! That is not just for the governments of our planet to decide. That is not just for businesses to decide. Nor is it just for you; your family and community to decide. A collective attempt to save us all That can only be for the Whole World to decide...

REFERENCES:

I: Bramwell D, V Heywood et al: 1987. Botanical Gardens and the World: A Conservation Strategy. Academic Press.

I: Clarke James. 2002. Coming Back to Earth: South Africa’s Changing Environment. Jacana Press.

II: De Graaf John, Wann David and Naylor Thomas. 2005. Affluenza. Berret Koehler Publishers

IV: De Grazia David. 2002. Animal Rights: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.

III: Felipe Fernandez Arnesto. Civilisations,

IV: Thomas L. Friedman; 2009; Hot, Flat and Crowded: Why the World Needs A Green Revolution –And How We Can Renew Our Global Future; Penguin Book Publishers

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V: Heinberg Richard. 2007. Peak Everything: -Waking Up to the Century of Decline in the Earth’s Resources. Clairview Books.

VI: Herbert Frank. Dune.

VII: Derrick Jensen 2006 ENDGAME: The Problem of Civilisation. Volume 1. Seven Stories Press.

VIII: Hamlyn. 2011. The World’s Worst Disasters of the Twentieth Century. Octopus Books Publishing.

IX: Haun Merla. 2009. Waves of Change; Coastal and Fisheries Co-Management in South Africa. University of Cape Town Press

X: Heinberg Richard: 2007. Peak Everything –Waking Up to the Century of Decline in the Earth’s Resources. Clairview Books.

IX: Hunter Jr. Malcolm. 2007. Saving the Earth as a Career. Blackwell Publishing.

IX: Lonely Planet. 2003. Lonely Planet Denmark. Lonely Planet press

X: Eric Pooley: 2010.The Climate War: True Believers, Power Brokers and the Fight to Save the Earth. Hyperion Press

XI: Pooley Tony / Player Ian; 1995; KwaZulu Natal Wildlife Destinations; Southern Book Publishers

XII: Pointing Clive: The Green History of the World

XIII: Rademeyer Julian. 2012. Killing for Profit: Exposing the Illegal Rhino Horn Trade. Zebra Books.

XIV: Singer Peter. 2004 Animal Liberation

XV: Singer Peter. 2006 In Defence of Animals –The Second Wave. Blackwell Publishing

XVI: Jean Louis Remilleux: 1989. Mobutu, Dignity for Africa, Interviews with Jean Louis Remilleux. Albin Michel Press. Pages 140 -144.

XVII: Tom Tietenberg and Lynne Lewis. 2009. Environmental and Natural Resource Economics Pearson Addison Wesley Press

XVIII: Ernst Ulrich von Weizsacker. 1994. Earth Politics. Zed Books.

Newspapers286

Greening the Future Awards Supplement: July 5 2013 The Mail and Guardian

The Natal WitnessCopyright:

The author Jack Dyer hereby asserts and gives notice of his right under section 77 of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988, to be identified as the author of the foregoing book

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior permission by the publisher, author or copyright holder.

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