I am bewildered by the notion that this election is “all about the economy.” Certainly the struggling economy is important, but there are many other urgent issues, including an environment at risk of catastrophic failure.

Many citizens care about the environment and take action by reducing, reusing, recycling, etc. These actions are of course helpful and commendable, but perhaps the most significant action a citizen can take in favor of the environment is often overlooked. In fact, according to every major poll, the environment does not rank in the top ten priorities of the average voter, with the economy always leading the pack. Indeed, discussion of the environment is virtually absent from the major presidential campaigns. Are we really that shallow and myopically focused on the short-term?

An intelligent voter decides which issues are important to her/him, prioritizes them, and researches the candidates’ records and positions before making their decision. Fortunately, the internet has made the research task much easier. To help you get started, here are the links to the presidential candidates’ websites on energy and the environment:

"Please join me at the Millburn Public Library on Weds. Nov. 7 at 7:30 pm when I'll be leading a discussion ' The State of the Environment and what YOU can do about it

Barack Obama: http://www.barackobama.com/energy

Mitt Romney: http://www.mittromney.com/issues/energy

I look forward to your comments.