Compassion is a special kind of empathy. It arises when we become aware of suffering coupled with a desire to relieve it. When we look at the various environmental and climate challenges facing the earth and her eco-systems, we may become aware of (immense) suffering being experienced not only by plants and animals, but also ourselves as we consider the situation. As we become aware of this suffering, and acknowledge it, if we wish to do something to relieve it, at any level, then this could be the beginning of a "compassionate" response.