Age Quote by Paul Hawken
“When the planes still swoop down and aerial spray a field in order to kill a predator insect with pesticides, we are in the Dark Ages of commerce. Maybe one thousandth of this aerial insecticide actually prevents the infestation. The balance goes to the leaves, into the soil, into the water, into all forms of wildlife, into ourselves. What is good for the balance sheet is wasteful of resources and harmful to life.”
About This Quote
Aerial pesticide spraying is portrayed as an outdated, wasteful practice that harms ecosystems while offering minimal benefit, contrasting profit‑driven motives with ecological health.
In simple terms: Pesticide spraying is inefficient and harmful.
Key Takeaway
Short‑term profit can damage long‑term ecosystems.
Themes
environment
agriculture
sustainability
economics
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
policy
environmental
When to use this quote
- Farm management
- Regulatory policy
- Corporate sustainability reporting
Key Concepts
externalities
tragedy of the commons
Practical Applications
- Adopt targeted pest control
- Invest in integrated pest management
Questions to Reflect On
- What alternatives could replace aerial spraying?
- How can businesses internalize ecological costs?
