Evaluation of the historical record using information from Maasai herders recorded by early European explorers and of fluctuating lake levels in other East African lakes suggested that before 1890 there had been another period of above-normal rainfall and loss of wood land environment. Thus, the scientists concluded that cycles of greater and lesser rainfall change hydrology and soil conditions, which in turn change the plant and animal life of the area.

 

Cycles of wet and dry periods can be expected to continue, and associated with these will be changes in the soils, distribution of plants, and abundance and types of animals present. From their perspective, environmentalists represented a dangerous and extreme view with a focus on the environment to the detriment of people, a focus they thought would destroy the very basis of civilization and lead to the ruin of our modern way of life.

 

Urban traffic snarls, long lines to enter national parks, and difficulty getting tickets to popular attractions are all symptoms of a growing population. If recent human population growth rates continue, our numbers could reach 9.4 billion by 2050. Today, the situation has changed. Public opinion polls now show that people around the world rank the environment among the most important social and political issues.