Money vs. the Environment: Iran and the USA…………
“I was amused at the Radio Free Europe’s comments about about the politics of petroleum pollution in Iran: “The reaction of Iranian officials is notable, and arguably fits into a pattern among states with poor records of accountability. Reports on Persian Gulf pollution and threats to other natural areas suggest that local efforts provide the most effective response and that the environment is not a priority for the state generally. Environmental issues very rarely feature in the speeches of senior officials. Reports frequently suggest that low-level officials block potentially destructive projects or react to degradation at an initial and local stage, but do not always receive systematic backing from officials in Tehran. In Iran, when economic interests clash with the environment, money is given priority.” Couldn’t we just replace “Iran” with “the United States” and “Tehran” with “Washington” in the above paragraph?...........” Informed Comment (May 30)
“In Iran, when economic interests clash with the environment, money is given priority…..” Cole is right, of course, replace 'Iran' with the 'USA' and the phrase will be as true, if not truer, as far as priorities are concerned.
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mhg
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