When it comes to our environment, our planet and even our communities, we have a responsibility to act with an eye on the consequences of our actions. We need to remember that both the positive and negative actions of a few can have a great impact overall. The choices we make today, and the ways we hold large corporations accountable for their environmental impact, all affect how our children and grandchildren will experience the planet.

In a way, we have almost come full circle in our attempts to protect the environment. Decades ago, there were few protections. We depended on companies to be responsible in their actions. That did not always turn out so well. Companies often dumped waste into the water and felt no compunction belching harmful chemicals into the air. As we have progressed, we have learned that we need protections for the environment. We need rules and regulations that guide companies so that they are responsible about their environmental impact. The formation of the Environmental Protection Agency during the administration of President Richard Nixon, and the requirement to balance company profits with healthy communities, have resulted in lower levels of pollution overall. It’s too bad that many of our politicians would prefer to go back to the previous free-for-all.

Recent Supreme Court cases have eroded regulatory agencies and their ability to enforce regulations. Currently, elected politicians brag about cutting the EPA budget by nearly 40% and rolling back regulations. They have no issue challenging protections for wildlife and lands. They would gladly auction off public lands to the highest bidder no matter the consequences.

In Idaho, our way of life is tied to the land. We hunt, camp, fish and hike. Natural resources are an essential part of being an Idahoan. Earth Day should be a high priority for us.

I have two children. I would really like to see a world where they can grow up and start their own families. That future will never materialize if we refuse to look to the future and protect our planet.