Civic educators strive to develop the kinds of citizens who can identify and address the significant challenges of life in society. A case can be made that we have failed in this fundamental task. In spite of our efforts, contemporary societies seem ill-equipped to cope with the enormous social and environmental issues of our age. The problem is not merely with the broader population. Academics, too, have been unable or unwilling to assess the challenges we face. This essay explores the underlying nature of our contemporary situation and argues for a synthesis of citizenship education and ecological consciousness. The author suggests that civic education should be conducted within, rather than outside or beyond, a broader environmental context. Such an approach is imperative for the good of society and the health of the planet. The author argues that we can no longer afford anything less. (Contains 10 notes.)