To men like that, time was a surfeit, a barrel they watched slowly drain. When really, he thinks, it’s a glowing puddle you carry in your hands; you should spend all your energy protecting it.
It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something.
Success in this industry is measured not just in tons produced, but in communities strengthened and environments protected.