Lounge
April 16, 2015
Ryuichi Sakamoto on Ecology
Part 5: Speaking Frankly About "Eco"
A reader, concerned about the current "eco-boom," poses a question to the Professor.
Are corporations exploiting environmentalism?
Is the media reporting the truth?
What should we do?
Summary by OPENERSPhoto by JAMANDFIX

My work primarily involves editing documentaries for television and film.
Interest in ecology is growing among the general public,
and I've had more opportunities to edit programs and films on such themes. However,
I personally question whether the recent so-called "eco-boom" is truly beneficial.
Especially when corporations launch campaigns touting "eco-friendliness,"
I wonder if it ultimately boils down to using their image to sell more products,
a form of opportunistic, pseudo-eco (ego) logy.
Programs, too, often prioritize ratings, and the reality is that the truth isn't fully conveyed.
I can only share publicly available information I learn through my work
with acquaintances who can understand it,
and try to put it into practice.
What each of us can do is truly limited, small efforts,
but even so, the Arctic ice will undoubtedly disappear in 50 years.
Mr. Sakamoto, what are your thoughts on this situation?

Do What You Can
There's a famous story from the Andes region of South America about a hummingbird.
One day, a forest fire broke out, and the animals fled. But a tiny hummingbird flew to the fire, carrying a single drop of water in its beak, and dropped it onto the flames. It continued this, drop by drop.
Seeing this, the other animals mocked it, saying, "What good will that do?" But the hummingbird replied, "I'm doing what I can," and didn't stop.
You are that hummingbird!
The hummingbird did what it could, meaning it did what was within its capacity.
Recognize that you are a hummingbird, and don't run away; do what you can.
That's what I believe it means.

Feeling Powerless
There are various opinions and theories about global warming.
Even among scientists, there are different viewpoints; some are not neutral but lean towards certain corporations or governments.
We are not experts, so we don't know for sure, but we can access a lot of information online. Therefore, we must develop our own judgment.
Just because we don't know doesn't mean we should do nothing. If you realize a step you've taken is wrong, you can correct it.
The problem can feel so immense that it leads to a sense of powerlessness. In such moments, remember: "Think pessimistically, act optimistically." Consider the worst-case scenarios, but act with optimism.
Thinking pessimistically means anticipating the worst possible outcomes, which is a very scientific approach. But if you don't act optimistically and positively, it's meaningless.
Styling by Kenji Sakurai
Grooming by Mayumi Fujita (Vitamins)
Wardrobe courtesy of LANVIN JAPAN (Tel. 03-3289-2782). Knit jacket ¥215,250, polo shirt ¥128,100, tie ¥45,150, trousers ¥217,350.
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Those whose questions are selected will receive an "more Trees Organic Cotton Bag" as a gift.
Questions for the Professor Wanted!
Please send us your worries about work or family, or any questions you have for the Professor.
Ryuichi Sakamoto will give his frank opinion from a higher perspective.
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