In 2006, I became increasingly concerned both about climate change and the military action taken by the United States to secure its access to oil supplies in the Middle East. As a journalist and author, I wanted to find a way to make the case for a lower reliance on fossil fuels and other natural […]
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Becoming your real self to help the world
Recently, I gave a talk in Chattanooga, Tennessee at the Girls Preparatory School. The talk was more or less about how the world is in so much trouble that it needs every sort of talent and passion in order to help it. In other words, if you care about world problems, you don't have to […]
One American’s effort to bond over our shared concerns intead of fighting over our differences
I've been worried for a long time that the entire world is held up in solving its problems by the division in the American political system. It's the Republicans' fault. No, it's the Democrats' fault. No, it's the Republicans' fault. No, it's the Democrats' fault. No, it's the Republicans' fault. No, it's the Democrats' fault. […]
To hell with sustainability
Here's a talk I gave a few months ago, in which I argue for a new definition of progress. I argue that we should not just be aiming to "sustain" our current way of life. Instead, we should be looking for a way of life that is both better for the planet and better for […]
Now it’s time for world leaders to follow the people on climate change
So, yesterday, on 10/10/2010, thousands upon thousands of people at over 7,000 locations around the world got to work on behalf of the planet. People did everything from planting trees to fixing bikes to installing solar panels. This international action, organized by 350.org (follow the link for photos of actions around the world), will hopefully […]
When saving the world threatens to overwhelm you
This piece comes from my Zen school's newsletter and I just thought it was perfect in the face of all we're dealing with in environment. It's a gift for all of you who are working to save the world for the rest of us. The first part is a letter from a student to Zen […]
Reuse by having community “free stores”
It saves resources, saves money, and builds community. What I like about this kind of thing is that any of us can start it anywhere at any time without going through any of the existing power structures–corporations, non-profits, government. It's pure citizen action that is both better for the people and better for the planet: […]
Thoughts on creating positive change in your organization
This weekend I worked with a group junior staff at a certain organization. Part of what we did was workshop what could be done to make their organization more eco-effective or even–a word I like better–“regenerative.” The group elected four representatives to approach senior staff with ideas. I sensed frustration in them and sent them […]