Our Santa Fe County commissioners are struggling with the issue of oil and gas drilling in the Galisteo Basin.

Perhaps it would be helpful to reflect on Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference of Environment and Development (1992), known as the Earth Summit. There are two ecological principles necessary to protect and restore nature and society: the "Precautionary Principle" and the "Polluter Pays Principle."

We are familiar with the "Precautionary Principle," which calls for not undertaking activities that could cause harm. When we disturb the ecology we are looking at short-term gain at the expense of sustainability and long-term benefit to society. The "Polluter Pays Principle" requires that the pollutor must pay for any harm done to nature and society.

Those who are engaged in selling fossil fuels and fossil-fuel-based energy and transportation systems are, in part, responsible for their impacts of climate change.

I believe that many entities are responsible for the impacts of climate change. Certainly use of fossil fuels is a major contributor. Governments allow their extraction and use. Manufacturers and producers take advantage of that allowance. Sellers and consumers are the driving force.

Oil companies are busy trying to make a profit off our need for fuel to maintain our lifestyle. As consumers, we need to recognize and take responsibility for what we are asking the oil companies to do on our behalf. Are we ready to do this? It is a tough question, but I do not see any alternative if we are truly looking at the big picture and want solutions.

Marion Seymour lives in Santa Fe and is active in the peace movement and the Green Party.