The Earth Liberation Front, a group of radical activists also deemed "eco-terrorists" by the FBI, are possibly to blame for the destruction of three homes in a Seattle suburb, valued at millions of dollars apiece.

The incident is still under investigation, however a sign containing the initials of the group was discovered nearby, arousing suspicions that they may be responsible. The sign read "Built Green? Nope BLACK! McMansions + RCD's r not green. ELF." Those involved in the investigation will not comment on the banner's authenticity. The activists protested a planned Colorado ski resort expansion in 1998 and claimed responsibility for firebombing the facility because they believed a nearby lynx habitat would be at risk from the project. They also took responsibility for setting ablaze an Oregon vehicle dealership that carries SUVs. Other arsons in the U.S. Pacific Northwest are also believed to be the handiwork of the extremist group.

Either one of three scenarios is possible here. 1) Members of the Earth Liberation Front aren't the brightest crayons in the box and were dumb enough to leave a crucial piece of evidence close to the scene of the latest crime 2) The dropped sign was completely intentional and the group wanted to be caught 3) This is one hell of a set-up by a third, as-yet-unknown party who is aware of the Earth Liberation Front's reputation for committing similar offenses and saw an easy target.

Anyway you look at the situation, it's hard to believe arson is an effective method of protest. It seems hardly plausible that the head of GM or Ford will see the error of their ways and change a business model based on their projects being turned to ash. Instead lives are being put at risk to make what point exactly? That the Earth Liberation Front knows how to light a match or ignite tinder? If they're waiting for accolades for a well thought out and clever strategy, they might not want to wait with bated breath from a call from the president bestowing a congratulatory handshake or pat-on-the-back.

» Reuters Environment