to adversely alter, on a global scale, the geologic and climatic cycles that have existed for millennia. Planet

earth, which man calls home, is approximately 5 billion years old. The science of paleontology tells us that

man is a relative new comer to the planet. Modern man did not arrive on the scene until approximately

10,000 to 15,000 years ago. Developments in hunting, agriculture, literacy, and the sciences, have allowed

man to thrive and inhabit nearly every corner of the planet. However, this success has not been good for the

earth. The world's population has recently surpassed 6 billion and the developed countries community

models and lifestyles are not sustainable.

Due to rapid, unrestrained growth, housing, shopping, and entertainment construction has spread across the

surface of the planet like an oil slick. We are depleting resources and altering ecosystems at

existing rich farmland, requiring food to be transported in from greater distances.

out of the 17 countries polled.

poll acknowledges the increased awareness of individual citizens around the world. Pessimism about the

arrived at the threshold of the 21st century where nothing less than a global call to action is necessary. We

with irresponsible consumerism and poor individual choices, has led us to a crossroad. It is now clear we

specialized occupations.

and exercise that freedom to make a difference. Individuals can effect change by identifying problems in their

migration. With so many cars on the road, they become congested, leading to the need for new, longer, and

Some topics in this essay:
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