Meaning: The quote "Conservation is now a dead word" is attributed to Marjory Douglas, a journalist and environmental activist. With these words, Douglas likely sought to draw attention to the diminishing significance of conservation efforts in the face of widespread environmental degradation and the prioritization of economic interests over the preservation of natural resources. The quote encapsulates the frustration and urgency felt by many environmentalists and conservationists who witness the ongoing destruction of ecosystems and biodiversity.

In the context of the quote, "conservation" refers to the deliberate and sustainable management of natural resources, such as water, forests, and wildlife, to ensure their continued availability for future generations. It encompasses a range of practices aimed at protecting and preserving the environment, including habitat restoration, wildlife protection, sustainable agriculture, and the promotion of renewable energy sources. Historically, the concept of conservation has been central to environmental movements and policies, reflecting the recognition of the intrinsic value of nature and the need to safeguard it from exploitation and degradation.

However, Douglas's assertion that "conservation is now a dead word" suggests a disillusionment with the current state of environmental stewardship. The quote implies that the term "conservation" has lost its power and relevance, perhaps due to the failure of governments, industries, and society at large to adequately address pressing environmental challenges. It speaks to a perception that the rhetoric of conservation has become hollow, overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of economic growth and short-term gains at the expense of long-term sustainability.

This sentiment is reflective of the growing concern over the global ecological crisis, including climate change, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and pollution. Despite decades of advocacy and awareness-raising, the degradation of natural systems continues unabated, driven by industrialization, consumerism, and unsustainable resource extraction. In this context, "conservation" may indeed appear to be a futile or ignored concept in the face of powerful economic interests and entrenched patterns of exploitation.

Moreover, the quote may also allude to the dilution of the term "conservation" within public discourse and policymaking. As environmental issues become increasingly politicized and polarized, the language of conservation may have been co-opted or distorted, losing its original emphasis on holistic, science-based approaches to environmental protection. In some cases, "conservation" may have been replaced by vague or misleading euphemisms that obscure the true nature of environmental challenges and the necessary responses.

In response to the perceived decline of conservation as a meaningful concept, environmental advocates and organizations have sought to reinvigorate and redefine the discourse around environmental stewardship. This includes efforts to highlight the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic well-being, emphasizing the importance of conservation as a foundation for sustainable development. By reframing conservation as a dynamic and inclusive principle that benefits human societies as well as ecosystems, these initiatives aim to counter the notion that "conservation is now a dead word."

Ultimately, Marjory Douglas's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency of addressing the environmental crisis and reasserting the value of conservation as a guiding principle for a more sustainable and equitable future. It calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with the natural world and a renewed commitment to holistic, science-based approaches to environmental protection. In doing so, it challenges us to breathe new life into the concept of conservation and recognize its enduring relevance in the face of global environmental challenges.