I never really thought much about the environment before college; it just didn't seem like a big deal. But this semester I enrolled in a class directly related to sustainability, and I realized how much our world is hurting.
I know that a lot of people think that global warming is a myth, but lately, it really seems like it could be true. For example, we have glaciers melting at drastic rates, which could force the ocean to rise 18-20 feet, which would displace millions of people in coastal cities. Could you imagine a Katrina incident worldwide? We would be living in complete chaos. Another thing, the greenhouse gases in our atmosphere are constantly growing. Thankfully, people are starting to realize this because they are discovering ways to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
Ok, so the world is hurting, what can we do about it? For starters, we could start commuting so much. Walk if your destination is only a mile or so away, or invest in a bike if it's a little farther. Not only will you get exercise (which will help decrease the obesity rate), but you will also save gas and prevent harmful chemicals from entering the atmosphere. You can also change your shower heads and faucets to be low-flowing so that you don't waste as much water. Even consider switching out your light bulbs for energy-efficient ones. They may seem like small steps, but they can potentially make a huge impact.
I know that I want my planet to stay beautiful. Even if it just means turning off a light when you aren't in a room, do it. Be the change in this world that we need, because if we don't, then who will?
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there are so many people with apathetic attitudes when it comes to saving the environment. it doesn't make sense when there are so many little things they could do to help.
You're right on the money...
I write a monthly column about those simple things we can all do:
http://www.kitchenstrand.us/whats_new/keeping_it_green
It's great that you're getting into it... I hope you encourage others to do the same.
Catie Q.
Green Kitchen Designer and Healthy Living Advocate
"Treat the Earth well. It was not given to you by your parents. It was loaned to you by your children." -- Kenyan Proverb
We worry more about who Spitzer slept with and our march madness brackets than we do global warming. That's america for you.
+mspin
http://www.progressiveu.org/blog/weezyf
i have a feeling we might start to care more about the important things if we, as a nation, get a reality check... wait. nevermind. we had one. katrina. there goes that theory.
I support sustainability, but I still believe global warming is a money-making farce.