I think an old style of addressing environmental problems is ebbing, but the rise of the so-called conservative, political movement in this country is not a trend towards the future but a reaction to this very broad shift that we are undergoing.

The quote by Paul Hawken reflects on the evolving landscape of environmental activism and political response. Hawken suggests that the "old style of addressing environmental problems"—likely referring to traditional regulatory approaches or reactive conservation methods—is ebbing, meaning it is diminishing in influence. This indicates a shift in society's approach to environmental issues, moving towards more integrated, innovative, or systemic solutions rather than relying solely on past methods.

Hawken contrasts this with the emergence of the so-called conservative political movement. He frames it not as a genuine progressive trend, but rather as a reaction to the broader social and environmental changes underway. This implies that political conservatism, in this context, is partly a response to fear or resistance against transformative ideas in environmental policy, rather than a forward-looking environmental strategy.

The quote originates from Hawken's broader work as an environmentalist, entrepreneur, and author, particularly known for linking economic systems with ecological sustainability. His observations often highlight how cultural, political, and environmental dynamics interact, showing that shifts in environmental approaches often provoke political counter-movements.

Overall, the quote underscores the importance of recognizing environmental and societal shifts as drivers of both innovation and resistance. Hawken invites readers to understand that political reactions are frequently retrospective responses, not necessarily indicators of a sustainable or forward-thinking future. This frames environmental challenges as not only scientific or technical problems but deeply intertwined with social and political currents.