Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Utah Lakeshore Cleanup at Sunset Beach Park, Vineyard.

     Environmental problems are social problems and since we are the ones that have created the problem, we should be the ones to go out to clean up our mess.

    Environmental sociology is the study of community in the largest sense possible as we are studying the community for all. We really are in a new period of life where humans impact climate and the ecosystem more than we have ever before. So much so, that they decided to switch to a new era and name this one we are in right now the anthropecene.

    I can see the effects of our impact on the world all around me, and so when I had the opportunity to come help for an hour on a Saturday, even if it was to only find a handful of trash, I knew it was worth it.

    I have tried to be aware of my footprint on this earth for a long time and know that my personal attempts to be more mindful is small in the larger scheme of things, but still valuable. I try to be conscious of my energy use at home by replacing outdated appliances with energy efficient ones when possible. I own a fuel efficient vehicle and use public transportation or my bike when I can. I change my air filters in my home regularly, and open my windows instead of running the air conditioner if I can. I have a low-flow shower head and try not to use any single plastic items when I can. I sort all my garbage and take my recycling to the recycling center in town every few weeks among many other things.

    My efforts are but a small drop in the bucket, and I am not sure how impactful they are. As far as I am concerned, I feel I am making a difference, and I feel better about how I am leaving this world behind for my kids.


[Paper written for SOC 3520 class UVU Fall 2024]
Amy Brouwer . 2024 . All Right Reserved