We are the only species which, when it chooses to do so, will go to great effort to save what it might destroy

We are the only species which, when it chooses to do so, will go to great effort to save what it might destroy

Wallace Stegner, a renowned American writer and environmentalist, once said, “We are the only species which, when it chooses to do so, will go to great effort to save what it might destroy.” This statement encapsulates the complex relationship between humans and the environment, highlighting our unique ability to both harm and protect the natural world.

Stegner was a passionate advocate for conservation and environmental stewardship, and his words resonate strongly in today's world, where the impacts of human activity on the planet are becoming increasingly apparent. From deforestation and pollution to climate change and habitat destruction, humans have been responsible for a wide range of environmental problems that threaten the health and well-being of the planet and all its inhabitants.

Despite our destructive tendencies, there is also a growing awareness and commitment to protecting the environment and preserving the natural world for future generations. This is where Stegner's words ring true – as a species, we have the capacity to recognize the harm we are causing and take action to mitigate it.

One of the key themes in Stegner's work is the idea of the "wilderness" as a place of beauty, inspiration, and renewal. He believed that preserving wild spaces was essential for the health of both the natural world and human society. In his novel "Angle of Repose," Stegner explores the impact of human activity on the environment and the importance of preserving the wilderness for future generations.

Stegner's words remind us that we have a responsibility to protect the environment and ensure the health and well-being of the planet. While we may be the only species capable of causing such widespread destruction, we also have the power to make positive change and save what we might destroy. It is up to each of us to take action, make conscious choices, and work together to create a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the natural world.