Final Blog...

 I believe that the most important issue plaguing the enviroment is the amount of we as consumers waste especially the U.S. The U.S. is the biggest waste producer and we are only 4.5% of the world's population, it's truly disgusting. The "Story of Stuff" really breaks down how much "Stuff" we do waste and how much energies and resources are really involved in the big scheme of products. Even recycling has become a toxic game of monopoly, companies selling recyclable material to other third world countries to make a profit while those materials are broken down and pollute the land and its inhabitants.

As a society we can do so much to scale back on the amount of waste we dispose of; educate your self and be that one person that makes a change, others will follow. We as consumers have the power to stop the large amounts we waste. Buy less things, enjoy the free things in life, buy recycled products or that use less packaging. Practice the 4 R's REFUSE REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE.

I try and do as much as I can, I did even before I took this class. I try not to buy things, if I do it is usually from a thrift store. My fellow classmates that have been to my house and can vouch for me, 95 % of my home items are second hand, and my place is stylish. I don't use paper plates or paper towels/napkins, I have reusable cloth ones. I always educate my friends and family I pass it on, it's so important to share what you've learned and I've seen change in them. It's great to see.

I have learned so much information about the environment this semester. The movies we have watched really opened my eyes; CNG and "GasLand" and the plastic plague in "Bag it." Also, the  field trip to Badlands Landfill was really powerful to see, this beautiful view of the valley from the top of a pile of trash. Tragic. I was very disappointed to find out that biodegradable material is really waste in landfills due to the arid conditions in the landfill itself, slowing the decomposition of trash. Another concept I really grasped was the heavy amounts of money and politics involved in the advances and losses of environmental issues. The carbonfootprint and water calculators were both very informative and fun to do! Finally, I am also glad I met the individuals in my  group, it is inspiring to meet others that are concerned about the environment and fighting to help save it. 

"Man! Have No Fear! Nature Knows The Great Secret and Smiles" (Victor Hugo)