Green words, green action

editorialA speech by Orange County Supervisor Tom Wilson last week contained much that seemed “pie in the sky” and a bit too optimistic to take entirely seriously.

Wilson urged environmentalists, business leaders and other members of private industry to work together to reach collective environmental goals without the typical fights and lengthy delays that are an inextricabe part of environmental activity.

“There must be a fundamental change in perspective for all stakeholders,” Wilson said last Thursday at the Headwaters to Ocean Conference in Huntington Beach. “Representatives from all groups should realize that they share the same goals. We can no longer advocate blindly -- that just hurts the process.” Wilson pointed to work restoring part of the Bolsa Chica wetlands and improving water quality along Huntington and Newport beaches as examples of what’s possible if the groups come together.

It is clear, though, from reaction to the speech as well as continuing battles over projects such as the Poseidon desalination plant, that a great divide still exists between environmentalists and business people.

But Wilson is correct that the divide needs to be crossed. His words are a start, but what he proposed is not going to be as simple as a single speech. There is too much history of distrust, too many times when these different factions have faced off in court, to expect a sudden united front on issues as contentious, and important, as protecting the environment -- while also maintaining a vibrant business climate.

Who, then, will begin doing the tough work?

Wilson’s suggestion was leaders of the community, and again Wilson is correct. He should be the first leader to step up and try to fill that role, going beyond mere words into serious and intent action. His lead could establish the model for other leaders, including those in City Hall, to do the same.

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