Genetically modified foods conjure images of ending world wide hunger and franken-foods causing cancer and birth defects. Organic labeling standards mandate that foods must not be genetically modified, along with more well known regulations such as the use of pesticides. If you are concerned about the consumption of genetically modified organisms why not just eat organic? It would solve problem of potentially 'killer' food as well reduce reliance on the petro-chemical companies to supply fertilizers and pesticides to farms.
Dr. Bronner's has done great work in the continued support and creation of organic markets. When palm oil could not be organically obtained, they developed a farm in Africa. Bronner's is not the only company which has set for themselves and lived by high standards, but their work is well publicized and, at times, radical. Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap is a true activist.
I cannot help but question the radical existence. At times I could be accused of being radical and indeed I may be. But, I proceed with caution. The president of Dr. Bronner's on the other hand has been arrested twice for acts of defiance involving the legalization of hemp products. Bronner prevailed when the bill was overturned by the supreme court. No doubt that his work was influential and powerful in this ruling.
Radical activism has it's place in our country but I also believe that we, as environmentalists, are missing a majority of americans. I advocate conservative environmentalism. This is based with firm roots in the term conservative. Because, we cannot erase the fact that our large human population must persist on a planet with finite resources thus we conserve. I question wether the work of Bronner will reach this audience.
I believe that to reach a broader audience, and to have a positive impact, the approach needs to be altered. If we cast the role of the environmentalist as the Shepard of a flock, recycling numbers will skyrocket! If line drying and farmers markets became the new victory garden, we could have a grassroots revolution to a simpler and more sustainable way of life. I envision, 4-H classes in New York, vacant lots converted into homesteads and employment for the local economy. You bring your mess-kit to a party because, well, it's your fancy mess kit and you feel fancy eating off of it.
If you're like me you don't shower because you love to wear perfume. And by doing so, I conserve a great amount of water. So, I dare you. Don't flush your toilet and put the paper in the trash. See how long you can handle it?
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