Current trends are not predictions of what must be, but rather warnings of what may be, depending on the course we follow. Knowledge about, and concern for, our environment is at an all-time worldwide high. Perhaps it is not unreasonable to hope that we will find ways to achieve social goals and environmental protection. The main goals of environmental education are to expand environmental literacy among the general public and to prepare students for environmental careers. Environmental literacy is a basic understanding of the natural and built environments and the relationships between humans and their environment. There are many opportunities for careers at a variety of different levels in the environmental field.

Businesses are rushing to invent and market environmental technology and "green" consumer goods. We have to look carefully at the claims made for "environmentally friendly" products. Some are true but others are not. We also must ask ourselves how much we need or have a right to consume. There is much we can do through our individual choices of goods and services, but we must be careful to avoid green scams and fraudulent marketing. Independent, scientific, lifetime analysis can help us make informed decisions.

The Earth Charter prepared for the Rio+5 U.N. Earth Summit affirms many key values of environmental science and sustainable development including respect for all life, ecosystem protection and restoration, human rights, equitable sharing of resources, eradication of poverty, democratic decision making, and a sense of shared responsibility for the well-being of the Earth community.