FInding Middle Ground

Technology really has two sides in the discussion on environmental conservation. Paul Wapner, in his article “Humility in a Climate Age” address these contrasting viewpoints. Past environmentalism has stressed human harmonization with the environment, and realizing that we must learn to coexist with the environment around us. However, Wapner also addresses the rise of a “new environmentalism” that sees the solution of our problems in technology and the mastery of the environment. While these can both be considered extremes, these two viewpoints see very interesting solutions. The side that promotes more technology certainly makes a good point. We have reached a point where we have completely altered our environment, and it is unrealistic to believe that people will be willing to completely change their lifestyles. The only way to salvage our environment is through more technology and consumption that is good for our environment. As Wapner said, “many environmentalists are now admitting that global capitalism, incessant technological innovation, endless consumption, and pervasive anthropocentrism are here to stay” (2). This is an unsurprising reaction to the environmental problem because it lies in the realm of the current global economy. Instead of looking for out-of-the-box solutions that will be difficult to get people on board with, these environmentalists are looking to do something that can be applied to the masses

On the other hand, some environmentalists see this increasing use of technology and reliance on consumption as a problem. Technology, they believe, has caused this much environmental degradation in the first place, why should we continue to rely on it? Instead, societies need to learn how to exist alongside the environment, instead of mastering it.

The real question is, who is right in this debate? While it is difficult to completely reject technology, we need to be careful of the types of technologies that are being disseminated. Many of these technologies just require and encourage more consumption, just of a different manner than what we are typically accustomed to. If we really want to effect change, it is important to reevaluate our consumption habits and how they are impacting our environment. We also need to look at all of these new green technologies and decide which ones are making the most impact, and which are just encouraging more consumption.