A lot of time and energy is spent in the movement talking about the human costs of war. There are casualties, both of military people and innocent bystanders (otherwise known as 'collateral damage').
However, the destruction war causes to the environment can be just as catastrophic. Agent Orange, an agent of chemical warfare used in the Vietnam War, destroyed the foliage over acres and acres of forest. Wildlife was also killed and maimed. Land mines are another hazard in countries such as Cambodia, where animals can end up tripping up mines, including endangered species.
As a result, many people who are involved in the peace movement are also involved in related causes such as the environment and animal rights. In Western Canada, in particular, the development of the tar sands is causing immeasurable environmental damage to surrounding communities, which is interfering with the ways of life there, particularly in Aboriginal communities.
Oil in Alberta does far more than fuel vehicles. Through a system of pipes, oil from this area is being shipped down to the United States and is being used by the military to fuel their machines. So clearly in this case there is a connection between the environment and war.
Peace activists do not have to become extreme tree huggers and throwing the rest of their limited time and energy into rallying for environmental causes. There are some activists who are indeed involved with multiple causes, but there are simple, everyday ways that one can reduce their carbon footprint and as a result, make some lifestyle changes that will impact both the environment and peace.
- Drive less. Cars and other motorized vehicles use fossil fuels. If you use less fossil fuels, you are creating less of a need to excavate them, as well as reducing the air-polluting emissions that are by-product. Walk and cycle more -- these are fun and healthy activities that don't pollute.
- Sometimes walking or cycling are not feasible. A more efficient use of fuel is public transportation and car pooling.
- Eat less meat. Vegetarian fare has less impact on the environment in its production (raising vegetables versus raising animals) and also reduces the products of cruel factory farming practices.
- When you do drive, don't let your car idle.
- If you have to buy a vehicle, get one that is fuel efficient. SUVs can be major gas guzzlers.
- Explore alternative energy solutions for your home, such as solar panel heating.
- Practise those things our parents used to nag us all the time about: turn the lights out if you leave a room. Don't leave the television on if it is not being watched.
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