The War Against the Greens
From Fringe to Mainstream: The Shifts in Environmental Opposition
The latest episode of the Rising Tide Ocean Podcast features an excerpt from a recent conversation between David Helvarg and Chris Clarke of the desert podcast 90 Miles from Needles. Clarke discusses Helvarg’s first book, The War Against the Greens (1994), which was highly influential in exposing a violent environmental backlash funded by western industries such as hard-rock mining, beef, and timber.
Helvarg draws parallels between that earlier backlash and today’s top-down right-wing attacks on environmental laws and agencies under President Trump. He explores how violent rhetoric and climate denial merged within a Republican Party that once championed both environmental protection and democracy. He also explains how the oil and gas industry applied lessons from the past to obstruct the growth of clean energy, and reflects on what he now believes is most effective in the fight to protect the planet’s blue world—and humanity itself.
“90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clark delves into the history and current state of environmental activism intersected with political dynamics. The discussion features an insightful conversation with David Helvarg, a seasoned ocean activist, author, and the host of the Marine Protection Podcast, "Rising Tide." Helvarg shared his experiences and perspectives, offering a historical context to the ongoing environmental and political battles.
Revisiting 'The War Against The Greens'
David Helvarg's seminal work, "The War Against the Greens," was a focal point of the discussion. The book, published in 1994, explored the fierce opposition environmentalists faced from well-funded, right-leaning groups, including the Wise Use Movement. Helvarg discusses how this ideology, initially perceived as extreme, gradually permeated political structures, shaping policies under right-wing administrations.
The Legacy of Corporate Influence
Helvarg traced a direct line from the Wise Use Movement to contemporary political scenarios, highlighting how policies initially deemed extremist have become mainstream. This shift, he noted, is partly due to the influence of corporate interests, particularly the fossil fuel industry, on political processes. These corporations have historically funded both political sides but have increasingly aligned with politicians willing to jeopardize environmental regulations for industrial benefits.
Continuity of Environmental Challenges Amidst Political Shifts
The conversation also touched on the seeming permanence of environmental and political challenges. Helvarg reflected on historical and recent episodes of violence directed against environmentalists, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and advocacy in safeguarding environmental rights. He warned of the dangers posed by current political dynamics, which often echo past eras of heightened tension and resistance against regulation.
A Light on Current Political Dynamics
Helvarg emphasized the critical need for democracy in addressing environmental issues, stressing that authoritarian regimes seldom prioritize environmental wellbeing. He expressed concern about the direction of U.S. politics, suggesting that environmentalists must prioritize defending democratic principles to effectively combat climate change and other pressing issues.
Helvarg urges activists and the public alike to stand firm in defending democratic values and to remain active in political processes. He stressed that while the future may seem uncertain, the work of environmental advocates is crucial in shaping a sustainable future. This conversation serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing environmental advocacy amid shifting political landscapes. Yet, it also reinforces the potential for collective action and determination to foster a more sustainable, democratic society.
