Commuter

Issue date: 1/16/07 Section: Opinion

Do you know what really boils our blood?

Lack of concern for the environment! While the previous issue of the Commuter showcased various environmental attempts around the school community, how well is this applied in the outside world? A simple drive down Route 22 may open your eyes to the reality of the situation. Sport Utility Vehicles remain in heavy supply, continuing to dominate the road. People will rant and rave over gas prices, finish their argument and then proceed to start up their Ford Expedition and drive off. While their presence has risen in recent years, you'll be hard-pressed to spot a Honda Insight or Toyota Prius.

While thankfully this trend is beginning to change, it's far too common to see people taking an uninterested stand, flinging their trash wherever they wish and hiding behind the innocent contention: "What's the harm in just one bottle…one wrapper?" This uncaring attitude has been in heavy force for the past decade or so and it's been pulling both attention and resources away from the biggest problem facing our planet: global warming and environmental degradation.

Many will be sighing and will groan upon the mention of the term, but consider the consequences. In 2006, someone might walk outside and feel sixty-degree temperatures in November and say "my, this is nice". Consider what you're saying! Not everyone loves the cold, but the fall and winter are known for their chilly temperatures, especially in the Northeast. Do we really want to reach a point where winter is virtually nonexistent in December?

Politically, our country is severely divided on the issue. Republicans (especially the Bush administration) seek to take no action because they feel there isn't enough "proof" that global warming is having a significant effect on the environment, as well whether or not greenhouse gases have been produced by humans. Democrats however, take a generally proactive approach, attempting to pass legislation that would limit greenhouse emissions and impose stricter standards on automakers to build more environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Even forgoing any political standard, someone need only look at the facts to realize there is a problem. Temperatures have risen significantly over the past century worldwide. Global warming also threatens to have adverse effects on weather patterns, water availability and will even serve to have crippling effects on the economy. An incredible amount of money is required for disaster relief and recovery efforts. One disaster spread out over time isn't enough to dramatically affect the economy, but what should happen if events such as Hurricane Katrina occurred repeatedly?

Continued...

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