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On the Edge of the Forest

On the Edge of the Forest

Filmed in a virgin forest in Western Australia shortly before his death, economist E.F. Schumacher makes a powerful plea for common sense and good planetary behavior. Walking through the forest of giant jarrah and karri trees, he reminds us of the efficiency of the perfectly balanced forest ecosystem. We should marvel at it, and learn from it about long-term survival in our biosphere--not 'clear-cut' it in the name of economics, and progress.

Talking straight to the audience, he is clearly concerned that his message be understood by as many people as possible. If we go on satisfying our wants and needs with such tremendous violence on the front line with nature, then, Schumacher says, we can classify ourselves with the endangered species. For all life depends on the thin mantle of topsoil.