Spring 1997 - Issue Number 39
Since the re-creation of Earth Day in 1990, we have devoted the Spring Equinox issue of Synapse to topics pertaining to the environment. When I think about the purpose of Earth Day, the word "sustainability" comes to mind. The dictionary definition of the word "sustain" is "to keep in existence, maintain; to supply with necessities or nourishment; provide for; to support the spirits, vitality or resolution of; encourage." Applied to the Earth, that seems like a worthy goal.
Most folks would agree that sustaining the Earth and its inhabitants is a good idea. Though this concept has been studied, researched, discussed and written about extensively, there is not a clear consensus about "how to get there from here". On the first Earth Day in 1970, Congress closed down for the day and 500 legislators participated in Earth Day events. In 1997, we don't have such an overwhelming mandate.
We offer the articles in this issue as suggestions towards sustainability with the hope of helping us move toward the consensus we need in order to act collectively.
Here at Neahtawanta we have been examining this issue for some time. We feel that one of the critical areas that must change if we are to achieve sustainability, is the economic reality. To address this complicated topic, we are printing an extensive article by bioregionalist and Neahtawanta board member, David Haenke, on ecological economics. In this article, David addresses the "greening" of economics through a process called an "ecological audit". This article is a good beginning point for further examination and dialogue.
Carol Misseldine reports on a fairly new approach toward sustainability called The Natural Step which was developed by a Swedish cancer physician in 1989. This system is based on universally accepted scientific principles which, if followed, will redesign the relationship between humans and natural biological systems. Carol is heading up a training program for the Great Lakes region based on this concept.
We include an article on energy efficiency from architect and Neahtawanta board member, Bob Tinker. Bob addresses the changing reality in the electric utility business as it becomes deregulated, and gives us some tips on ways to encourage energy efficiency along the way.
Tom Shea, sharing his reflections on a recent trip he and his wife, Darylene, took to South America, connects women's issues, ecology and economic survival in a developing country.
Addressing both environmental sustainability and spiritual growth, longtime activist, Dave Dempsey speaks of his personal struggles to stay connected to his heart while defending environmental laws in the state legislature.
The last pages of Synapse are devoted to a legislative update and events and activities sponsored by the Neahtawanta Center. We hope you'll check out how you might participate. Mark you calendars for June 21--you're all invited to help us celebrate our 10-Year Anniversary of the Neahtawanta Center.
I have heard the criticism that Earth Day is only one day in the year, so how can it make a difference? We use this one day to focus on environmental problems, to bring attention to critical issues, and to celebrate all life on Earth. But we hope the awareness that's raised will last beyond the day, and result in lasting change. That's up to all of us.
--Sally Van Vleck
Return to the Index of Synapse 39, Spring 1997