"crisis many observers expressed concern that environmental issues would be put on the political backburner, treated as a ‘luxury’ that could be addressed only in times of prosperity" (188)

opposite of patagonia "sale" in which we consider the earth the source of all wealth

I completely agree with this statement. They were unable to control levels of heat within their homes so when it consistently stayed too hot, they opened windows to let in cold air... hello.. That's like having your sprinklers on for your yard when it's pouring rain outside.. and there's a drought.