Ecosystems are holy. The word "environmental" is a deadly compromise itself. It's a policy word that lives only in the head, and barely there.

David James Duncan’s quote underscores his belief that ecosystems are inherently sacred, or holy, in their complexity and interconnectedness. By describing ecosystems in this way, Duncan elevates the natural world beyond a mere resource to be managed or exploited, suggesting that it holds intrinsic value. This idea resonates with a more spiritual or philosophical view of the environment, where nature’s systems are seen as living, dynamic entities that deserve respect and reverence.

Duncan contrasts the concept of ecosystems with the word "environmental," which he criticizes as a "deadly compromise." He argues that the term “environmental” is often used in policy and discussions about nature, but it lacks depth and fails to capture the true essence of nature's complexity. According to Duncan, it is a word that lives only in the head—abstract and intellectual—without connecting to the deeper, more profound understanding of nature's true role and significance in the world.

The phrase "barely there" further highlights Duncan’s frustration with the superficial use of the term "environmental." He implies that this term, often used in political or academic circles, is insufficient for addressing the true spiritual and ecological importance of nature. For Duncan, reducing ecosystems to a policy term diminishes their value and ignores the profound relationship humans should have with the natural world.

Duncan, a writer and environmental activist, is known for his works that emphasize the emotional and philosophical dimensions of nature and the environment. His quote reflects his broader view that environmental issues should be approached with a deeper sense of reverence and understanding, not just as technical or political problems. In his perspective, the sacredness of ecosystems cannot be fully captured by bureaucratic or abstract language, and true environmental action requires a more meaningful connection to the earth.