Mongabay Newscast What environmental history says about our current ‘planetary risk’
Mar 18, 2025
Sunil Amrith, a Yale history professor and author of "The Burning Earth: A History," dives into the historical parallels of environmental policy and its modern implications. He discusses the unique planetary risks we face today, contrasting them with past ecological impacts confined to regions. Amrith emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, exploring how historical injustices affect indigenous communities. He also addresses eco-anxiety and highlights grassroots movements striving for sustainability, showcasing inspiring global activism.
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Unprecedented Potential for Harm
- The current U.S. administration's potential for harm is unprecedented due to the nation's wealth and military power.
- Similar chaotic administrations have existed, but their capacity to inflict damage was limited.
Historical Parallels to Current US Policy
- The current U.S. administration's disregard for international agreements mirrors 1930s Germany and Japan.
- Their tearing up of agreements stemmed from a desire for unrestrained unilateral power.
19th Century Landscape Transformation
- The 19th century witnessed massive landscape transformations, including deforestation for resources like timber.
- This period saw extensive changes, exceeding even modern levels due to the rapid pace of exploitation.
