Eco Terrorism

While I would absolutely consider myself an environmentalist, I'm also a firm believer that when it comes to acts of eco terrorism, the ends don't justify the means. No matter how noble a cause may be, committing acts of violence, terrorism, or of any form of destruction undermines the cause that the individual or group might be fighting for. Whether it be tree spiking, bombing lumber mills, or sabotaging institutions in conflict with environmental protection, I believe that there is always a better way to go about things. I understand that for many, doing such things might seem like the only way to get real change. They see the world from the perspective that the drastic destruction of the environment can only be combatted by drastic actions. In their view, they need to take action into their own hands because all other methods have failed from their point of view. However, I simply don't believe that that is the case. I believe that there are lawful methods that can be taken to combat the horrendous destruction of our environment. I know this because I have taken part in such methods. Marches to raise awareness, petitions to lawmakers, environmental clean ups, and many similar such projects are all means that can be taken to get real results and real change without shedding a negative light on the cause. Throughout my involvement with various environmentalist groups, I've met individuals who truly believe with all their hearts that the only way to save the earth is to take measures into their own hands in a manor that vanquishes what they view as enemies of the environment. I understand their view, but I don't agree with it. I believe that by committing acts of eco terrorism, you are telling the world that your cause is less upstanding that it really is. You are telling society that they shouldn't support what you believe in because destruction just breeds more destruction. I love the earth just as much as anyone else. I believe that we have a sacred responsibility to save this planet, to provide a world for our children, and their children in turn, that can be sustained and remain beautiful and vibrant. I don't believe that that world can be achieved through acts of violence. I don't believe that that world can come to be by stooping to such methods. Our environment came about by a one in a million chance, we are learning more and more about how truly rare the occurrence of our planet is, and I believe that because of that, we must do all that is in our power to protect it. That shouldn't, however, include acts that undermine the cause and plainly give the opposition reason to fight against it. Again, as in many things, the ends don't justify such drastic means.