Letters to the Magazine

Taking Our Environmental Threat Seriously

Readers were encouraged to read that America is embracing environmentalism, the subject of our July 17 cover story. Many described ways they were trying to make a difference, from operating environmentally friendly dry cleaners to an energy-efficient animal shelter made of nontoxic, recycled materials. Others discussed their own concerns, especially about population control. "Unless we can stabilize the world population, all efforts to improve the environment will be in vain," one said. Some decried wanton consumerism. "What we need and what we want have become blurred," wrote one. "Isn't it time we learned to conserve?" Added another, "Being truly 'green' does not mean recycling your Styrofoam cups. It means not buying them in the first place." And finally, one noted: "America needs to lead the charge. As the world's leader, we must take the initiative in changing the way we live."

Going Green

Thank you for a fair and balanced look at "The New Greening of America" (July 17). What a thrill to have Republicans and Democrats embracing environmentalism. Granted, much of it may be economically driven. After all, $3-per-gallon gasoline has a way of turning the most diehard SUV-lovers into Sierra Club members. But whatever the reason, it's a step in the right direction. Let's not forget it was Richard Nixon who signed into law the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, and established the Environmental Protection Agency. And it was Teddy Roosevelt, the original Green GOP-er, who was responsible for our unrivaled network of national parks and wildlife refuges. Which all goes to prove that while our tenuous environmental situation may be "an inconvenient truth," it's a "truth" that transcends party lines.

Bob August

Republicans for Environmental Protection