Ferencz lecture: Kean College

First in a series of lectures by Benjamin Ferencz at Kean College, New Jersey. (Second lecture: RG-12.020*12). Ferencz speaks about the problems of our small planet, the difficulties for the environment, what progress has been made, and how people can curb hazardous habits and help the planet. He discusses the exploding population, dangerous consumption habits, and problems with disposal of waste. Besides education and awareness, Ferencz identifies the need to establish international law to control what happens to the planet. For example, he defines the Law of the Sea that determines who can fish where, what you cannot do to pollute the waters, the limits of territorial sovereignty, and an effective way for settling disputes at a Tribunal (in Hamburg, Germany). He claims the human species is the most endangered because it has the (nuclear) power to destroy all life on the planet--many times over. He concludes with an inspiring way--a new pledge of allegiance--to begin thinking in planetary terms: "I pledge allegiance to the earth, this unique blue water planet, graced by life, our only home. I promise to respect all living things, to protect to the best of my abilities all parts of our planet's environment and to promote peace among the human family with liberty and justice for all." A question and answer period follows. Responding to a student question, Ferencz suggests the creation of a Security Council for the Environment in the United Nations in order to maintain international peace and protect the planet. This will promote a more rational system of governance.