As we prepare to enter the 21st century, it is probably wisest to view matters of environmentalism and environmental problems in terms of the culture or cultures that have given rise to degradation and to ways of living that continue to harm the environment, yet which are mainstream practices that are rather taken for granted by many. However, this paper is rooted in the theme of societies, individuals and their attitudes as only slowly changing. As the examples referred to will suggest, there is much reason to question Ulrich Beck’s position on environmental Risk as something that will be averted by social dynamics as much as policy decisions.