It was striking how green the German countryside was both visually and ecologically: compared with “Brown Australia” (visually and ecologically), reinforcing the truism “There is no Economy without Ecology.”
One hopes that Australia’s new directions in climate change policies begin the process of healing our soils, protecting our bio-diversity, and restoring our forests. Those who clamour to put the economy first should take note that you can be wealthy and green provided you commit to renewable energy sources.
Our wealth comes from exporting minerals and dirty coal: Germany’s comes from exporting manufactured goods and yet its carbon footprint is half Australia’s. They value their forests, clean air, clean water and a green pristine countryside. We begin the marathon to reverse climate change as the world’s worst polluters and behind every other country which is why our target needs to be 80% to make up for lost time.
Sustainable living not only improves our climate prospects, but it will reduce our dependence on exported energy which involves us in the war in Iraq.
The air we breath and the water we drink is continuously recycled. By buying carbon credits from the third world tropical countries we bring carbon down to earth quicker and at a cheaper cost than for equivalent Australian expenditure.
Lets hope this is the beginning of the process of education about OUR ENVIRONMENT which transforms our economy because there is no economy without ecology.
Clive Blazey