It is not a coincidence that these are some of the areas most torn by strife and social inequality. Careful inclusion of fossil fuel economies in plans to move toward a more diversified balance of energy sources will be necessary to work past political posturing, intercontinental tensions and certainly the resolution of the global terrorism problem. We must remember to take heart in the many national and international organizations involved in actively working on these problems.

We must also empower ouselves by doing everything we can in our daily lives to think ecologically as we move through our daily life choices. Some of the ways we can become more empowered are to: educate ourselves about the conditions in our world (Eco Worldly is increasingly becoming an excellent source of such information); contact our local and national leaders on initiatives we care about; get involved with or instigate school and community projects with our children; financially support organizations we believe are working toward humanitarian and ecological improvements; engage in the global conversation by talking with family, friends, neighbours and through such networks as provided by this and other publications we use to inform and influence our fellow human beings.

Above all, do not be discouraged. We can do this. Cheers.