In stark contrast, the bureaucracies greens seek are largely immune from these evolutionary forces. Agencies become parasitic when they are buffered from the consequences of their actions. In the end, bureaucracies are run for the benefit of the bureaucrats in them and the clientele upon whom they depend. Thus, we should not be surprised when agencies like the U.S. Forest Service systematically advocated environmentally costly and financially wasteful programs. This once proud agency squandered its reputation and good will and is having a terrible time earning it back.
Political pressures inhibit meaningful reform.
As people become better educated and more wealthy, their demand for a quality environment increases dramatically. Earth Day should promote institutions which recognize this taste for green. This is not to suggest that wealth gives immunity from ecological ills. For example, trophy homes in sensitive riparian zones and wildlife corridors present serious problems. People, especially rich people, should be held accountable for the consequences of their actions.