You can't sit with us! Excluded from environmentalism

Most environmentalists consider the start of the movement to be with the writing of Silent Spring in the 60's. From then on, it was mainly a left wing movement focused on protecting the natural world from increasing human encroachment. 

However, as we move into the 21st century and the problems of pollution, habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity can be clearly seen in our lives day to day; I think it's high-time that the environmental movement changes direction. Traditionally and continuously, this area of thought continues to be dominated by left wing, towny, middle class people with a certain set of views and ideologies. I often find it ironic ,that this movement be championed by those who are often most separate from it. I also find it ironic and disappointing that the people who should be most engaged with environmentalism and sustainability seem to be absent from this conversation. Environmental issues should be the biggest concern of people of all classes who live and work in the countryside, though I often don't hear their voice?

I know why this is. Environmentalism and the preservation of the natural world has often led to a marginalization of people from the countryside as they come under fire for farming, hunting, shooting, trapping etc. 

This has led to a massive divide, a weakened movement and the inability for us,especially in Britain, to make any real headway on important issues. If you disagree, then ask yourself this question, how often do issues around environmentalism, animal rights or biodiversity actually involve the government, public and charities working with farmer and landowners? Not often. Mostly they involve criticizing practices, trespassing on land or just generally complaining. 

You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. 

For me, this is such a shame. There are so many issues that could be improved by compromise and working together and including different people in the environmental movement. People that live in the  countryside, who are right wing or conservative need to be included in this conversation because it effects all of us. Environmental issues shouldn't be exclusively discussed by people of a certain political orientation, we all eat the same food, drink the same water and breath the same air. 

Nearly 2000 dairy farms have closed since 2013 and whether you agree with consuming dairy or not this is an important issue. Keeping British farming alive and supporting domestic food production should be a concern to all environmentalists. I think its about time these conversations about sustainability, carbon emissions, animal welfare and biodiversity included everyone, especially the custodians of our countryside.