Western civilization

What lessons can we take from the human tendency to manipulate their environment?  How should the knowledge of the past influence the modern debate over sustainability and climate change?
What has Western civilization today, derived from the ancient civilizations of the Near East?  Be specific.

Please note that your initial response is to be a minimum of 150 words, rewriting the question is not a part of the word count.  Be sure to base your posting on concrete examples, specific details, and quotes from the text and documents.  At least 2 in-text citations are required.