Easter and environmentalism

I figured that since I posted quotes for the previous two days of Holy Week, I’d post one more. Besides, this one is too juicy to pass up.

“Those who do not understand the link between the Easter message and ecological problems, do not understand anything of either. Environmentalism in itself is of course no utterance of Easter faith. Many non-Christians are concerned about this. That is only right and proper. A monopolizing of these earthly cares by Christians is out of the question. There is environmentalism without Easter faith, but no Easter faith without environmentalism.” Herman-Emiel Mertens, Not the Cross, But the Crucified: An Essay in Soteriology, p.207)

I came across that passage over at Sustainablog. Although the quote is taken out of context (which makes it difficult to understand Mertens’ argument), I find the connection between Easter (i.e., the risen Christ) and environmental action compelling. What do you make of it?