[1] In the early days of environmentalism, «technology equals pollution» was a
widespread claim. Faced with the continuous progress of industry and commerce, the
green movement became mostly reactive : ecowarriors prevented ships from fishing
and blockaded timber roads. Activists, often got their way only by persuading
governments to enact tough conservation and anti-pollution laws.

[2] But today a profound shift is taking place. While protesters and regulators
haven’t gone away, environmentalism is becoming much more proactive, and a new
formula is gaining favor : technology equals solutions. No longer seen as the enemy
technology is being used to prevent environmental damage, manage fragile
ecosystems and devise ecofriendly products and manufacturing methods. Relying
on everything from satellite systems and bioengineering to the resilient processes
of nature itself, scientists are learning how to clean up the air and water, produce non
polluting fuels and grow more food using fewer harmful chemicals. The once
« derided » technology is making a comeback .

[3] But none of these techniques is a magic bullet that will forever eradicate the threat
of ecological catastrophe. That will require a transformation in human behaviour leading
to a new willingness to assume responsibility for the environment and hold consumption
of resources to sustainable levels. But the fruits of technology, combined with the
needed change in attitudes could very well enable us to have our earth and use it too.

Time (adapted ) , March 23, 1998