Industry Versus Humanity

Abstract

Our political leaders seem to measure the strength of our economies purely on the basis of the state of the stock market and economic growth. They are concerned only with the almighty dollar. They do not measure the long-term consequences of our oilbased economies on the environment. They are not concerned with industry’s impact on the health of the people or the biosphere. While these indirect effects of economic growth and development are seldom evaluated, there is a serious need for such knowledge. Plans for economic development must evaluate the impact qualitatively and even quantitatively when possible. Thus, development of a Green Economy must rely on a knowledge base of feasible approaches and their consequences. We must have cognizance of the quality of an economy at the local, national and international levels, not just in terms of dollar profits. Long-term repercussions must be carefully and accurately evaluated and acted upon. Upon these points, any far-sighted environmentalist would agree. But how is this goal to be achieved? What forces are most likely to bring about the desired changes? What regulations must provide a guide so that profits alone do not determine corporate action? At what level or levels must these regulations be imposed? Considering this last question first, it seems clear that regulations must be set up at all levels, but most importantly, they must exist at the international level with many, if not all, nations of the world participating. Only then can the selfish motives of nations and other special interest groups be suppressed. A governing body that draws upon the largest body of world citizens is likely to be the most equitable, providing long-lasting benefit to the greatest numbers of people. One of the first goals in creating an equitable international judiciary system must be to wrest control from corporations and agencies representing special interest groups. Nationalistic motivation must be discouraged, particularly when the control of world markets is at stake. Thus, world markets must cater to the needs of the peoples, not to the preferences of the business world. In other words, businesses must serve the people rather than the other way around. The key here is responsibility. This key element of “responsibility” must ensure that corporate and governmental corruption, aimed at padding the pockets of a few at the expense of the many must be reigned in and prevented. When violations do occur, they must be severely punished. After all, officials who misuse public funds for self-advancement are in essence Water Air Soil Pollut (2010) 205 (Suppl 1):S17–S18 DOI 10.1007/s11270-007-9343-y