Now that we are significant. (human influence over the environment)(Editorial)

Forehead mites are rarely photographed. This is not because they are rare or elusive (the unassuming creatures reside on most human faces, quietly grazing on dead skin and other delicacies) and it's not because the mites are small and ugly (they may be microscopic and aesthetically challenged, but plenty of tiny, hideous things attract attention from researchers and photographers). Forehead mites are neglected because they are insignificant. They have no noticeable effects, positive or negative.

It's an attractive model for humans on earth. If we could become the forehead mites of Gaia, maintaining ourselves as inconsequential denizens of the host planet, our worries about sustainability would be over.

Unfortunately, this is no longer a serious option. We have disrupted too much of the ancient biosphere. We have become too numerous, too reliant on invasive technologies, and too pressed by continuing poverty and desperation to retain any prospect of a return to insignificance.

As Kent Peacock explains in this issue, we must now face up to the implications of our importance. We must find ways to move from a parasitical existence that is killing our host to a more compliant and cooperative symbiotic relationship that does something good for nature. In particular we must learn to be actively significant in works that reduce harm and repair the damages we have caused.

This is not a simple matter of cutting back. We cannot reasonably expect much general improvement in human behaviour unless the basic needs of expanding human populations are met and unless existing poverty and inequity are alleviated. Neither of these is likely without significant redistribution and substantial growth in the provision of essential goods, services and associated opportunities.

At first glance the implications are grim. How can it be possible to allow substantial growth without causing even more damage?

The answer, William Rees argues, lies in recognizing that growth in goods, services and opportunities does not necessarily entail growth in exploitation of environmental resources and waste sink capacity. The trick is ...