Michael Specter makes a valid point when he says "Possessing an excessive carbon footprint is rapidly becoming the modern equivalent of wearing a scarlet letter." Although I think this is an exaggeration, because nobody knows the exact carbon footprint of anyone else, I still think it holds true. It is hard to find a person who does not contribute to the problem of excessive greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, but some do more to decrease their emissions than others. And those who do nothing to decrease their emissions, or even contribute to the problems excessively (I'm looking at you Hummer drivers) are definitely judged their peers. However, in terms of food miles, unless the subject is being followed in the supermarket, nobody will know their footprint. I do not even know where any of the food I buy comes from. When I first read John Elkington's claim, "We are in an era of creative destruction," (292) I was unsure of what he meant, but the way I translate it is that although we (human beings) are unable to stop destructing our planet, we are finding 'creative' ways to attempt to reverse the effects.
There is no question that I contribute to global warming, because as a consumer in a capitalist nation it is impossible not to. I do not think I excessively contribute, but I am sure I could do more to be more conscious of staying green. I should unplug my phone charger when I am not using it, but unfortunately I never think about this. After reading this article though, my eyes have been opened and I will try to walk more places and be more conscious of my actions.
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I,too, used the quote comparing excessive carbon footprints to a scarlet letter. I think it is an exaggeration too, but a valid point. I think the main difference is that adultery is affecting the parties involved, while an excessive carbon footprint affects our surrounding environment.
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