seriously, it's way past time for a new "Prime Directive" . . .

something like . . .

"The health and welfare of the planet and the environment will take precedance over all human activity -- no exceptions!" . . .

yeah, it will be expensive, particularly to corporations . . . but a lot cheaper than what we'll end up paying if we DON'T act . . . and soon . . .

I attended a local workshop of the Earth Charter Summit this weekend for the first time. They were being held all over the country as far as I know; ours was called Sustainable Santa Barbara. There were about a dozen breakout sessions, with two aims: to send statements of purpose back to the main organization, and to begin action plans for our own community. I was pleased with what took place; I hope to be able to keep on with it.

'Cause yeah -- we need a new Prime Directive, and soon.

Hekate

(from an FAQ page online)
What is the Earth Charter?
The Earth Charter is a declaration of fundamental principles for building a just,
sustainable, and peaceful global society in the 21st century. It seeks to inspire in
all peoples a new sense of global interdependence and shared responsibility for the
well-being of the human family and the larger living world. It is an expression of
hope and a call to help create a global partnership at a critical juncture in history.

We need to get away from a 'left/right' 'liberal/conservative' mode of discussing issues. It needs to be put in basic terms where the bottom line is: does this policy support or protect human health, life and right to control his/her life?