Yet in most instances government is to blame for the problems in the first place. Government subsidies for agricultural, mismanagement of federal lands, and failure to recognize property rights in threatened resources are all too often the cause of environmental degradation. Indeed, as a direct result of these institutions, humans have learned to do more with less - to meet human needs while using fewer, and less scarce, natural resource inputs. All things considered, the planet is doing pretty well. As the late Julian Simon reminded us in his numerous volumes debunking apocalyptic scenarios, the Earth, due to its inhabitants, is tremendously resourceful.
Humans are ingenuous and inventive.
Given the chance, a free people will figure out how to solve their own problems. The ultimate resource is people. So, this year on Earth Day, hold your head up high. Rather than worry about the planet's fate, celebrate it. Mark today as Resourceful Earth Day.