We are the only ones capable of finding the solutions that can lead to a sustainable existence. This is not a belief shared by humanists, who believe that human beings evolved and go on evolving, along with the rest of nature. Humanists find good reasons elsewhere for caring about and protecting our environment. A humanist's moral reasoning would be broadly utilitarian, which means that it is based on a concern for the consequences for human welfare and happiness. Our welfare is highly dependent on the environment and the continued existence of many other species.
Humanists also appreciate the happiness and inspiration contact with nature and animals can bring.
Humanists are unlikely to subscribe to deep green beliefs about the intrinsic value, or even superiority, of non-human nature, or to be sentimental about sweet or fluffy animals. Humanists have a scientific view of the world, and would not automatically blame science and technology for environmental problems. Societies must take responsibility for how we choose to use scientific and technological developments. Humanists have always supported birth control as an important contribution to reducing demands on the environment, and were active in helping set up United Nations birth control programmes Humanists share many of the above ideas with rational and concerned people of all beliefs. Most environmental charities, such as Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth and the World Wide Fund for Nature, are non-religious, and are supported by people of all faiths and none.