Environmental Mafia

Environmental Mafia is a hard-hitting challenge to the modern environmental movement and the vast regulatory system it has spawned. Drawing on news reports, policy studies, and real-world case histories, Richard O’Leary argues that an agenda carried out “for the good of the planet” is often damaging both the environment and ordinary Americans.Beginning with the philosophical and even religious roots of contemporary environmentalism, O’Leary traces how a once well-intentioned concern for nature has, in his view, morphed into a powerful political force. Chapters cover the impact of environmental ideology in public schools, the growing reach of federal and state regulators, and the way national and international green politics shape local decisions.Using specific incidents from across the West and beyond, the book details how regulations on wetlands, endangered species, and “urban sprawl” have cost families their homes and livelihoods, restricted property rights, and hampered economic development—often with little or no measurable benefit to wildlife or ecosystems. O’Leary highlights clashes over ranching and farming, the consequences of “let it burn” forest policies, and the controversy surrounding global warming policy proposals.Environmental Mafia also examines the money and organizations behind the movement, including how centralized decision-making in Washington and in global forums can override the wishes of local communities and voters. A chapter on eco-terrorism looks at incidents of sabotage and intimidation carried out in the name of protecting nature.Extensively backed by documentation, appendices, and online resources, this book is aimed at readers who suspect they are only hearing one side of the environmental story. O’Leary makes the case that the true “endangered species” may be individual liberty, private property, and accountable local government—and asks whether it’s time to rethink who is really being protected, and at what cost. Read more