Able Quote by Ronald Wright
“Like most problems with technology, pollution is a problem of scale. The biosphere might have been able to tolerate our dirty old friends coal and oil if we burned them gradually, but how long can it withstand a blaze of consumption so frenzied that the dark size of this planet glows like a fanned ember in the night of space.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Environmental commentary, date unknown
Large‑scale technological use amplifies pollution beyond natural limits, making the planet’s environment vulnerable to intense, unsustainable consumption.
In simple terms: Scale of tech use harms the planet.
Limit consumption and scale responsibly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- corporate strategy
- personal lifestyle choices
- urban planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance technological progress with ecological limits?
- What policies could curb excessive consumption?
The claim may oversimplify complex economic and energy dynamics, ignoring potential mitigations.