[readyplayernull]

The whole problem is that wisdom is controlled by greed.

But what if, in the future, the brains of current world leaders are examined and they find the cause of their actions is saturation of microplastics? So destroying the planet wasn't their fault, but just like lead and the Romans, they got crazy from pollution itself?

[HenryBemis]

Greed is a great motivator for many. Some want peace of mind. Some simply want 'more'.

The key mindset is "I'll go make me some more money, and someone else will fix the symptoms later - and hey I'm doing you all a favor because fixing the thing will also generate money for you!!"

One of my all time favourite relevant cartoons!!! (shareholder value) https://www.newyorker.com/cartoon/a16995