As a college student, it’s slightly harder to reduce my carbon footprint; especially since my life can be so hectic. At times, it takes a bit more effort to remember to be mindful of the little things that I do that could make a big impact on the environment, but I always make it a priority to recycle and reduce the amount of electricity I use. I’m definitely aware of how much the environment is changing, and not for the better. Pollution is on the rise and climate change is causing more and more weather disasters, from destroying the homes of polar bears to unnatural weather phenomena appearing in places where it usually doesn’t.
Pollution is one of the biggest global killers comparable to malaria and HIV; it kills over 100 million people a year. Although the United States isn’t number one on the list of most polluted countries, its rank could certainly rise within the next couple of years. The environmental protection agency, or the EPA, is in danger of being reduced in terms of size and resources. The Trump administration wants to cut down the size of both the agencies funding and employees by more than half. It’s a scary thought considering all they’ve done in an effort to reduce man-made environmental disasters. Some of their accomplishments range from helping protect the ozone layer to banning the use of dangerous pesticides.
It’s also revealed that the government wants to cut down on the EPA’s use of social media to inform people on tips, facts and information on the current state of the environment. I believe that this violates the First Amendment, which promotes freedom of speech. I also think that everyone has a right to know what is going on regarding the very Earth that they are living on. Everyone plays a part in the Earth’s future because there’s no denying the weather patterns that are currently happening. It’s important to do our part and be aware of the domino effect we create with even the smallest of deeds. Even though I’m a college student who just recycles and decreases her energy use, I remind myself that even though these deeds are small, I’m still doing my part to help out the environment in any way I can.
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