For anyone who dreams of radical change, waiting for other people to act can seem very slow. A comprehensive 2001-2005 United Nations Millennium Report explained the state of the Earth's ecosystems and confirmed that our sustainability is highly-threatened.  Governments and industry admitted our planet may not support future generations unless radical measures are implemented.

This U.N. report explains why humans have changed ecosystems more rapidly and extensively in the past 50 years than in any comparable period of history. Humans justify their behavior as a way to meet rapidly growing demands for food, fresh water, timber, fiber and fuel. This has resulted in a substantial and irreversible loss in the diversity of life on Earth. Over 1,300 authors from 95 nations participated in the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, and results are public.  Yet, this kind of report isn't as effective as people who make changes in their attitude and choices.

Although it's agreed the need exists to revive and protect the world's oceans, dry lands, forests and interdependent species, influencial government and industry actors aren't proactive in policy and behavioral change. Consider existing tariffs and controls for import- exports, agricultural subsidies, laws about where industry can outsource workers, how they manage sanitation, and define acceptable pollution.

If they are truly serious about change, why not change their trade laws, implement and publicize more financial or other incentives for environmenally-friendly practices, for alternative energy use and inventions? Some such incentives do exist. Are you informed enough about how you can help? Radical change may require your own radical thinking or action. Think about your own life. What more could you do?

Wearing Sustainably: Consider an innovative team in Philadelphia, USA.  They came up with the 100-mile suit. If you look at the labels on your clothes, you'll realize that a lot of oil was burnt to ship those items to you.  If you're wearing artificial fabrics, oil products may also be on your back.  Add costs of growing, processing and shipping any or all materials and the environmental costs skyrocket.  The Philly team created a man's outfit (almost completely) of materials grown, processed and tailored in a 100-mile radius around Philladelphia. They prove change in mindset is possible. The question is, what would it take for you to give up your favorite brands or styles in favor of what can be made in the vicinity where you live? What kind of sacrifices are you ready to make?

Eating Sustainably: Consider local activists in different countries who choose to eat only what is grown locally in particular seasons. If you live in a country with warm climates all year, this increases the variety of fruits and vegetables available to you. We should all be informed consumers. If you can shop at a farmer's market, where all the food is local, you can ask upfront about farming practices and pesticides, and ensure that the food meets your freshness and quality standards. Food travels an average ~1,500 miles to get to consumers. Imagine the fossil fuel required to fly the huge planes or power the 18-wheelers, oil that influences political and religious conflict with the Middle East, oil that pollutes the environment, oil we could conserve for other uses. Do you realize the origin of your food and drinks? Rather than continue what you may have always done, why not spend money on free range eggs, grass-fed meat, or produce that may be healthier?

Building Sustainably: Consider that the building industry is booming around the world. How often do people simply build the standard structure which looks like everything around it? It may seem cheaper nd easier, but is it really? Many governments offer tax breaks and other incentives for incorporating eco-energy, water conservation-oriented plumbing and environmentally-conscious practices for more than heating and cooling.  Have you truly investigated your options? You'll discover advantages in using more local and renewable materials, like wood, stone products, real wool carpets, cork or natural paints. More responsible building includes low-toxic, energy-efficient, solar and recycled content products, avoids synthetics and endangered natural items. Consider Australia's most healthiest, eco-friendly building, "Council House 2": For more information visit this site: http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/info.cfm?top=171&pg=1933