As today is Earth day I have been reflecting on what I can do to further lessen my impact on Mother Nature or what is commonly referred to as my carbon footprint. While I hear similar intent from many others I also hear those saying that the Earth is not going anywhere and that it is humans which will parish (this is said while declaring Earth day a waste of time).
I actually agree with the fact that Earth will continue to exist in some form while human, and most animal life as we know it, will become extinct by the environmental travesties that persist. As for Earth day or environmental efforts in general being a waste of time I disagree. It would seem to make sense that we would do our best to delay such extinction as long as possible for the sakes of future generations. While our efforts at this point may well be that of delay tactics there could be a scientific discovery during this period in which the delay is made permanent by a “cure”.
Continuing at our current rate of environmental decline with the attitude of “nothing can stop the destruction” is really no different than suicide on a global level. You could say that the Earth has a terminal disease (environmental degradation) and yet there are new cures found for what was previously called terminal so why not work to slow the spread while a cure is sought?
I care deeply for the environment and all that it entails. There is of course much more that I could do to lessen my impact and each opportunity I have to do so will be met with open arms. Switching from CFL to LED lighting, using environmentally friendly cleaners (such as vinegar), limiting my driving (especially alone), and the list goes on and on. The point here is that each small step taken by an individual makes a difference especially when you multiply this by all the other individuals taking similar action.
Many will take this as the rambling of another “do gooder” and that is fine with me…as one in a hundred taking action is better than none.
Happy Earth Day!
