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Thornbrugh: If a tree falls in a forest, we make porn about it?

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By Caitlin Thornbrugh

Thursday, October 23, 2008

I try to do my part for the environment. I recycle, try not to drive my car if I can help it and buy local when possible.

However, I was recently introduced to a new way to save the planet: eco porn. A Web site called Fuck for Forest is exactly what it sounds like — people doing dirty deeds to clean up the environment. Now, truly, everything has become about sex.

Before entering the Web site, there is a disclaimer that says, “If you are underage or offended by truth of love,” this probably isn’t for you.

I clicked and was shown a picture of a naked woman on her knees, her hands clasped in a praying position. The background was, surprise surprise, a forest.

I’m guessing the “save the forest” part was the huge chainsaw leering over the woman and the forest. Apparently her naked body was going to stop deforestation.

If you can get past the disturbing picture, you see the opportunity to become a member. You donate $15, which all goes to “saving the forests” and get one month of access to videos and photographs.

I am very proudly not a member, but I’m guessing the photos are more naked women surrounded by leaves and trees.

Members can also view “recycled porn,” which is donated by users.

In a world where every second 28,258 Internet users are viewing pornography, this seems to be a valid way to earn money for the environment.

But the erotic overpowers the ecological. The World Wildlife Federation in the Netherlands and Norway rejected a donation from FFF.

Although the intention is good, if a major environmental group won’t even accept your donations, this is not the best way to be saving the planet.

Calling it “eco” porn doesn’t change the fact that it’s just porn in front of a forest.

Grist magazine published an article in 2004 that said the founders of the site claimed that the project had raised $50,000 so far. This was, in large part, thanks to the fact the couple had sex on stage at a concert. Am I the only one who thinks sex should stay in the bedroom? Or at least on the hill or in the stacks.

I have heard the arguments about porn being liberating and about how it’s the models’ choice to participate.

This does not change the fact that it’s objectifying. Every second $3,075.64 is spent on pornography, so I guess I am in the minority.

There is porn for everyone. FFF features a link to “veg porn” featuring “titillating tofu eaters.”

Whether you like porn or not, naked women is not the best way to save the environment.

Instead, donate your $15 to an environmental activist group that has kept its integrity.

— Thornbrugh is a Lenexa junior in creative writing.

Comments

bigborker (anonymous) says...

Um, since when did we all decide that sex should be a dirty thing? Why not use sex to save the world, or at least make it a better place?

October 24, 2008 at 5:41 a.m. ( | suggest removal )

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