I will be brief. I just want to make a note on the importance of political decisions on the way society faces environmental issues. I believe there was a trend in mentality change occurring in American society since the implementation of the Endangered Species Act. I will not discuss here whether or not this was a good, reasonable change. The point is that political forces have changed the rules, and, along with that, a slight change in the notion of what is right and what is wrong.
Politicians can do that.
Hence, I clearly see the importance of politics on affecting moral values, and, thus, influencing ethical issues, which are usually associated with environmental problems. I understand what you are saying about the tragedy of the commons. This is the million dollar question.