The Observer, September 29, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 5
Editorial: Environmental responsibility - an investment for the future
From all of the published research findings and statistics, it is evident that global warming is a reality. With frequent reports on CNN and Time Magazine announcing the melting of the polar ice caps, warmer seasons, and the depletion of the ozone layer, it's hard not to wonder about the future of our earth. Though global warming may be partly attributed to a natural increase in temperature, it is also virtually impossible to deny the significant human impact on the planet's current state.
At Case alone, in 2003, we produced 1114.73 tons of garbage and every student used, on average, 100 sheets of paper per week. The harsh facts concerning our environment are endless and can leave anyone feeling frustrated, concerned, and helpless. But the change has to start somewhere and it starts with you. As highly intelligent college students, learning about the different parts of the body, Newton's first law, or modern world history is simply not enough. Now is the time to form the habits of a responsible citizen and future role model who is educated in all verses of the world.
To address the issue of our declining environment, Case has focused on the theme of sustainability by creating a website that features facts on recycling, energy conservation, and various other resources. The university has also made sustainability into a reality by building the energy efficient Village at 115. However, although the information and resources are made available to the Case community, it is either not being accessed or just being ignored. There are thousands of recycling bins on campus but somehow recyclable papers, cans, and bottles are still making it into the trash. If a recycling bin isn't right in front of you, it doesn't mean it does not exist. Take the initiative to find one and make a small step towards caring about the world that you live in.
The only thing more tragic than a person who is not educated is a person who is but just does not care. It would be hard to find someone at this university who doesn't know the importance of conservation and recycling, but it probably wouldn't take much effort to find someone who rarely practices it. Act like the educated individual that you are and help make a difference.
In honor of the planet that gives you food, water, and shelter, try making these little habits a part of your daily lives. Unplug any appliances or electronics when they are not in use. Your straightening iron, cell phone charger, and coffee maker are examples of common items in your room that suck up energy as long as they remain plugged into an outlet. Before you run to the nearest Starbucks every morning, bring a thermal coffee mug with you instead. By not using the paper cups and sleeves, you're making a positive impact on our waste production. And of course, it must be said again: don't forget to recycle.
No one is asking you to save the world in a single day, but with every bottle that you recycle and every light you turn off, your small accomplishments will amount to something priceless over the course of a lifetime. For more information about sustainability at Case, to request a recycling bin, and find other ways to help, go to http://www.case.edu/news/sustain/index.htm.
