Caring for Creation

Abstract

Caring for Creation argues that progress has been made in areas such as protection of endangered species, the sustainable agriculture movement, and recycling. While much remains to be done in these and other areas, this progress is cause for optimism about the future. In substantial measure, the American experience is the story of environmental destruction and degradation: deforestation, annihilation of species, contamination of surface water and ground water, and much more. At the same time, the American experience is also the story of triumph: the preservation of threatened and endangered species such as American bison and bald eagles, new farming methods that reduce environmental impact, impressive gains in recycling. This volume documents those crises and successes.

Today we face new challenges, among them climate change which, if not slowed down, will have devastating consequences. There is also more work to be done in areas in which progress has been made, including protection of endangered species and recycling. Yet, this volume argues, as we look at the progress that has been made, we may embrace the future with hope. The work contends that if we live our lives in ways conducive to the wellbeing of the biotic communities that sustain life and support candidates for public office and organizations committed to environmental protection, our children and grandchildren will have the opportunity to experience the goodness of a flourishing creation.