The end of the world — we’ve all thought about it. Whether the image that pops into your mind consists of aliens descending on Earth or acres of land engulfed in flames, the concept of “doomsday” has been present in our society’s media, literature and entertainment for centuries. However, with the looming threat of climate change — that nightmare is becoming closer and closer to reality. Footage of California’s forest fires, earthquakes in Puerto Rico and flooding in Florida have been circulating throughout the internet, rightfully terrifying all who view it. For some, these natural disasters are motivators to become more active in the movement to stop climate change. For others, the devastation of these events and the seeming imminence of total destruction is overwhelming and makes them feel helpless.
This week, Mirror explores issues related to climate change. We investigate how Greek spaces navigate recycling, speak to a biological sciences professor and ask our staff how they practice sustainability and mindfulness of the earth. Although climate change is a politically charged issue, preserving the planet is important. While we may not be the ones drafting environmental policies, we have power over our own decisions as individuals — whether that is reflected through the candidates we vote for, sustainable choices we make or being concious of our impact on the earth.
