nasa.gov
In honor of Earth Day taking place just last week, I thought I would take the time to write about an issue that is so much more serious and important than we realize, the environment.
Since I began learning about Earth, the environment and our role in depleting its resources, it has been clear to me how grave of an issue this is.
However, every year at about this time, due to the increase in environmental information circulating around, I find myself feeling a sense of urgency to make drastic changes and a newfound vigor for doing my part to ensure that this planet is in good condition for future generations.
I wish I could say that these lifestyle changes were something that I tend to uphold throughout the year, but unfortunately, life gets busy and stressful and convenience often wins out. I think this is an experience many Americans share.
We’ve made it so easy to get what we want and need fast so that, when we have to make adjustments that may result in a longer wait, more work or more effort, we find it very difficult to go that route.
But if we think about all the things we spend countless hours doing that ultimately will not benefit us or this world as whole, it seems that we could find some room to do something that might amend some of the damage we’ve caused. That damage is significant and growing by the minute.
Theworldcounts.com is a website that keeps track of enviromental issues by the second. There are facts and live statistics about our use of resources, health, and the deterioration and pollution of the environment that are increasing and updating right before your eyes. Some of the facts listed include:
Every year, an estimated 2.2 billion tons of waste is dumped in our oceans. At the rate we are going, we need 1 and ½ Earths to sustain our lifestyle. By 2030, we will need 2 Earths.
The reefs grow at a rate of only 0.3 cm to 10 cm a day. The reefs that you see now have been growing for the last 5,000 to 10,000 years. It took us only 55 years to wipe out 90% of the ocean’s predators, causing a disruption of the marine ecosystem.
In just one generation, our production of man-made chemicals increased by 40,000% – from 1 million to 400 million tons. In the last 200 years, we have added 2.3 trillion tons of carbon dioxide to our atmosphere. Half of this amount was added in the last 30-35 years.
I think that it’s common to see the Earth and it’s resources as some kind of endless guarantee. No matter how much we use and waste it will just always be there, right?
Deep down, we all know that it won’t. There are certain crucial elements of the environment that can not be replenished once they are depleted.
We spend a lot of time fighting over politics, laws, rights and media, but we fail to realize that none of that will even exist if we make the world an unlivable place for those that come after us.
So, put down that plastic water bottle, ride your bike to work, plant more vegetation, conserve water. Figure out ways you can change your habits and do it. Start filling in the footprint you’ve left on this planet. No excuses.
There are very few issues that are more important. That being said, this will be my last article of the semester. As always, it has been a pleasure (and a lot of hard work) writing my column this year and I appreciate all of the feedback I have received, both positive and negative.
Every compliment, word of advice or encouragement and even criticism, has helped me grow. This year, in particular, was a learning experience for me in terms of journalism. I learned a lot of valuable things about the field and about myself as writer.
I hope those that read my articles have noticed my development and evolution and I thank you for sticking with me as I find my voice. I wish everyone a wonderful and restful summer! Stay tuned for more from The College Diaries, senior edition!
Bridget Goedke
Senior Viewpoints Editor
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