As humans, we usually think that we are separate from the natural world and entitled to use it for our own ends. When we ourselves are treated this way – objectified, exploited – we object strongly: witness the Arab spring, revolutions throughout history, and significant support for the aims of the Occupy movement (Time poll, 10/2011). Yet the few people who suggest not exploiting animals, plants, or ecosystems are usually ridiculed or trivialized. Even Buddhists rarely live in accordance with the very clear teachings of their religion on this subject.

The direct results of this alienation, central to human civilization, include the present financial crisis, the loss of 200 animal species every day, the degradation of soils, air, water and human health along with them, peak oil, and a forced march toward a cliff known as climate catastrophe. The subtler results are loneliness, ennui, and attempts to fill our empty hearts by consuming – which is very good for business. . . 

The only reason catastrophe is inevitable is because we prioritize industrial civilization over survival. As long as we are consumers rather than citizens, we are consenting to our own demise, participating in global murder-suicide. - from The Compassionate Earthwalk Manifesto