We also need to recognize that changing paradigms may mean an increased awareness of the political and social processes of our society - and of the societies of the world. It is, I believe, not sufficient for us to talk about these problems. We must, in our own backyards, our own cities, states, and countries - act upon this knowledge. We must be prescriptive as well as descriptive. There are, however, other dimensions to these issues which I hope you will consider.
Sustainability goes far beyond the purely scientifically measurable health of ecosystems.
It goes to the heart of the survival of our human ecosystems as well. It may be that you can stand together, and sometimes it may mean that you have to stand alone. It may mean that you become more political in your actions. But it is critical that you each become an advocate for a point of view which stresses environmental responsibility in your professional work, your homes, and your communities. As a university, we also have a responsibility to our students and our society.