Thoughts on Cradle to Cradle

In Cradle to Cradle Braungart and McDonough discuss the fact that currently we are only slowing the destruction of our planet, not stopping it. They suggest that through changes in business practices and materials we can turn this around. In order to put into practice what they mean, their book is printed using infinitely recyclable plastic, not paper. The ink can also be reused and is not harmful to the environmental. Braungart and mcDonough suggest that all companies can do this and that everything we make can work with the environment, not against it. I do agree with this statement. We've sent a man to the moon, why can't we build things that don't kill the natural world? I think we can and I think that in doing so we can better ourselves. In many ways I think that this is the only way to address the environmental issue in our society. It would be great if we would just produce less. It would also be great if companies weren't what is dictating our lives aand choices. However, this is the soceity that we created. Our culture of consumption is harder to change than the business practices of companies. We can make companies change through legislation—for instance making companies use materials that can be reused without releasing toxins or downgrade through recycling—but I don't know how you can make a person stop wanting things. Therefore, I believe that Braungart and McDonough are on the right track.