Many instances of persecution and killing have occurred in countries with atrocious human rights records such as Sri Lanka, Guatemala and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

For the first time since life appeared on earth, one species- us- is single-handedly altering the physical, chemical and biological nature of earth. We have become a force of nature

The environment is so fundamental to our continued existence that it must transcend politics and become a central value of all members of society.

What about our children and grandchildren and their children and grandchildren? Do we not want them to live healthy and happy lives?

I see a world in the future in which we understand that all life is related to us and we treat that life with great humility and respect.

Environmentali sm is really about seeing our place in world in a way that humans have always known up until very recently - that we are part of nature-utterly dependent on the natural world for our well being and survival.

As parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts we need to start getting out into nature with the young people in our lives. Families play a key role in getting kids outside.