Earth Day has lost its edge and, with that, the sense that a different world is possible. Even more than in 1970, what’s needed now is an outpouring that organizes itself—with millions of people and, for good measure, some stinky dead fish in the streets. Full Story »
Posted by Kaizar Campwala
A solid op-ed -- effective combination of background, data, insight, and not too much voice. Fits some key observations about government, environment and the public into a concise piece.
Interesting op-ed on how American public attitudes about the environment have changed since Earth Day was first celebrated 39 years ago. The author offers some good insights on that shift, backed up with factual evidence from expert sources, as well as helpful context to put this issue in perspective.
Kolbert crystallizes the relationship between government and the public regarding the importance of environmental stewardship. Great background on Earth Day's past glory, along with polling data about the environment's priority in the minds of Americans today.
Polls show that voters regard the environment in general, and climate change in particular, as, at best, middling concerns. In a recent survey, the Pew Research Center ... More »
Compelling and well written. Recalls the flavor of the first Earth Day's "edge" and urgency, accurately contrasting it to the relative lack of enthusiasm of 2009's celebration. Framed fully by focused context.
The first celebration of Earth Day, on April 22, 1970, was a raucously exuberant affair. In New York, Fifth Avenue was closed to traffic. People picnicked on the sidewalk; ... More »
As someone who remembers the first Earth Day well, I can also compare changes in social trends, information sources, and dramatic differences in the pace of life and the ways we communicate. We have infinite sources of information and ways to spread the word, but most uses seem to be about ourselves and our fleeting thoughts than about important issues with long-term consequences. What hasn't changed is our belief that technology will solve our problems long before we suffer the ... More »
I think this is a particularly good article because it draws you inward with the backdrop of history at the beginning before moving onward to the present day, which is an effective writing technique which allows the reader to stay interested while making relevant points. The reading therefore has good content and flow.
I do think global warming should be a higher concern among Americans and the rest of the world than it is today. While I am Libertarian minded, I am reluctant to think a free maket steers a course favorable for our species.
Very interesting incorporation of separate issues. Stressed the relevance of global warming through a humorous avenue.
The journalist contrasts what Earth Day once was to what Earth Day now is. He provides excellent examples from the first Earth Day that clearly represent a different society of Americans. He also provides examples of this years Earth Day and, when compared to 1970's Earth Day, seem overtly mild. The journalist also is able to weave Obamas "green dream team" which offers the reader hope... but is later checked when the reader discovers that "regulating C02 using existing laws will be a laborious, and potentially litigious, exercise." In my humble opinion, it's good journalism.
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