We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Paul HawkenRead
Biological diversity is messy. It walks, it crawls, it swims, it swoops, it buzzes. But extinction is silent, and it has no voice other than our own.
Interpretation
Biological diversity is chaotic and vibrant, while extinction is quiet and unnoticeable.
This quote by Paul Hawken highlights the contrast between the lively, dynamic nature of biological diversity and the often overlooked seriousness of extinction. It emphasizes that while diverse life forms are active and visible, the loss of these species happens quietly and without fanfare, underscoring our responsibility to recognize this threat and give a voice to the voiceless.
In practice
In an environmental seminar, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of preserving biodiversity.
We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Inspiration is not garnered from the litanies of what may befall us; it resides in humanity's willingness to restore, redress, reform, rebuild, recover, reimagine, and reconsider.
We can no longer prosper by increasing human productivity. The more we try to do, the more poverty we will create.
At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the present, and calling it gross domestic product.
How much harm does a company have to do before we question its right to exist?
We have the capacity to create a remarkably different economy: one that can restore ecosystems and protect the environment while bringing forth innovation, prosperity, meaningful work, and true security.
Should you shield the canyons from the windstorms you would never see the true beauty of their carvings.
The unwaking world was as hushed as a deep forest.
Let us open our leaves like a flower, and be passive and receptive.
In the realm of Nature there is nothing purposeless, trivial, or unnecessary
The sea is everything. It covers seven tenths of the terrestrial globe. Its breath is pure and healthy. It is an immense desert, where man is never lonely, for he feels life stirring on all sides.
Those of us who witness the degraded state of the environment and the suffering that comes with it cannot afford to be complacent. We continue to be restless. If we really carry the burden, we are driven to action. We cannot tire or give up. We owe it to the present and future generations of all species to rise up and walk!
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.