by Donald Moore

Created on: August 20, 2007

NASA spin-offs may lead to things like cleaner burning engines, more biodegradable containers or alternative energy sources that "help" make the environment cleaner. But pollution is more of a moral problem than a technological problem. Therefore, the solutions will have more to do with matters of the human spirit than NASA technology.

Until people see recycling as a moral issue instead of a technology choice, little improvement will take place. Until unnecessary use of gas-guzzling cars takes on a moral component technological advances will matter on slightly. Unless dumping toxic wastes into landfills and rivers is seen as morally repugnant, those who do will continue.

So, I applaud any efforts to develop environment helping spin-offs the NASA technology might foster. Let's do the best we can with it. But the real solution to pollution is a matter of the heart and that is where the real work must be done.

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