It is a stark and arresting fact that, since the middle of the 20th century, humankind has consumed more natural resources than in all previous human history
Interpretation
Human consumption of natural resources has dramatically increased since the mid-20th century.
This quote by Margaret Beckett highlights the alarming fact that humanity's consumption of natural resources has surpassed that of all previous eras combined since the mid-20th century. It serves as a warning about the unsustainable patterns of resource use and prompts reflection on our impact on the planet and the necessity for conservation and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
In practice
In a discussion on environmental sustainability during a conference.
Places that have become agricultural deserts, trashed by giant corporations, could be reforested, drawing carbon dioxide from the air on a vast scale. The ecosystems of land and sea could recover, not just in pockets but across great tracts of the planet.
Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.
Late in August the lure of the mountains becomes irresistible. Seared by the everlasting sunfire, I want to see running water again, embrace a pine tree, cut my initials in the bark of an aspen, get bit by a mosquito, see a mountain bluebird, find a big blue columbine, get lost in the firs, hike above timberline, sunbathe on snow and eat some ice, climb the rocks and stand in the wind at the top of the world on the peak of Tukuhnikivats.
As long as I live, I'll hear waterfalls and birds and winds sing. I'll interpret the rocks, learn the language of flood, storm, and the avalanche. I'll acquaint myself with the glaciers and wild gardens, and get as near the heart of the world as I can".
The bluebird carries the sky on his back.
All still when summer is over stand shocks in the field, nothing left to whisper, not even good-bye, to the wind. After summer was over we knew winter would come: we knew silence would wait, tall, patient calm.
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