Reflection Weeks 5-8

In the past few weeks I have learned a lot of information that has changed how I view the environment. The documentaries that we have been watching in class have been especially eye opening.

We have watched several documentaries such as "Tapped" "Fresh" Green" and "The Future of Food". Most of these documentaries have made me very angry. It seems like all of the documentaries, even though they are talking about different aspects of the environment have one common theme, big corporations are polluting our environment and killing us to make a profit. These big companies are driven by greed and do not care if the products they make are safe, if their plants are killing the environment, and they always seem to target their competition such as small farmers that do not have prayer of a chance of winning a fight. Also, the documentary "Green" as shown me that people and companies think that certain populations are expendable or not as important. It makes me sick to think that these larger corporations are poisoning populations along the Mississippi River and deny that they have anything to do with it. What also is disturbing is that people will protect these companies. I think as consumers, we need to make a statement and let the companies know that we do not believe any population is expendable and what they are currently is wrong. They need to find a new solution.

The documentary "Tapped" also shocked me. The fact that the bottled water companies are basically stealing water from the residents and selling it back to them for 1900 times the original cost. It just is wrong, no one has a right to sell water as a commodity. It is essential to life and everyone has a right to it. I work as a cashier and the next day when I was cashiering and I saw someone by a bottle of water I had to fight the urge not to say something. I think I started discouraging customers from buying bottled water I would be in trouble by my employer.

I also learned about junking. A brief introduction was done and I learned what junking is and what can be created. I find using old things to make new things is really fun and really creative. In fact I did not even think crafting like this was considered recycling, but it totally is! IT is so cool and all of the projects are so unique. It seems a lot better than just buying something generic from a big box store!

Share and Voice: Activity: How are Green Are You?

We almost 10 weeks now we have been learning about the environment and how we can make our world a healthier place. Now I propose the question:

How green are you?
Have you been soaking in what we have learned and have you made any significant changes in your lifestyle since beginning this class?

I have found a cool little quiz How Green Do You Want to Be? It may not be the most scientifically accurate quiz but I thought it was fun.

I took the quiz I received the result "I've Seen the Green Light" Basically, I have acquired the necessary information about what is harmful and what is good for the environment. I have started taking some action, such as bringing my own bags to the grocery store or Target. But there is a lot more I could do, such as take public transportation more often.

I challenge everyone to complete the activity, share your results and if you would like share what changes you are going to make or already have made to make your lifestyle a little more environmentally friendly!