Sounds like they need some psychotherapy, perhaps some ecopsychology?
Ecopsychology studies the relationship between human beings and the
natural world through ecological and psychological principles. The
field seeks to develop and understand ways of expanding the emotional
connection between individuals and the natural world, thereby
assisting individuals with developing sustainable lifestyles and
remedying alienation from nature.
Ecopsychology attempts to examine why people continue environmentally
damaging behaviour, and to develop methods of positive motivation for
adopting sustainable practices.
Evidence suggests that many environmentally damaging behaviours are
addictive at some level, and thus are more effectively addressed
through positive emotional fulfillment rather than by inflicting
shame.
The main premise of ecopsychology is that while today the human mind
is shaped by the modern social world, it is adapted to the natural
environment in which it evolved. According to the "biophilia
hypothesis" of biologist E.O. Wilson, human beings have an innate
instinct to connect emotionally with nature...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecopsychology
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biophilia_hypothesis
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> Bret Cahill