People interviewed this month in Washington, D.C. have taken action to be more eco-friendly in order to avoid future environmental damages.
Ben Davis, 22, a rising senior at American University, discussed how the he fights for more structural change in the environment. Differing from his previous years, he concluded how he recycles and composts more due to the growing attention in the media.
“Though it costs more, it will be worth it in the long run,” said Davis, who identifies as an environmentalist.
According to NASA’s global climate change website, “the extent of climate change effects on individual regions will vary over time and with the ability of different societal and environmental systems to mitigate or adapt to change.”
Ryan Barto, 20, a rising junior at American University, wants to continue spreading the word about climate change.
“Most people, for example, don’t know that bottle caps cannot be recycled,” Barto said.
In his workplace, The Davenport Coffee Lounge at American University’s School of International Service, he pointed out that they no longer use plastic straws.
“I try to do fun little eco projects, because re-useable items tend to be costly,” Barto said.
Jessica Simms, 38, who lives in England, does all in her power to be more eco friendly, even if it requires the extra effort. Simms makes her changes by using public transportation.
“If people were educated and knew how cheap and easy it was, there would be a greater difference,” Simms stated.
Louisa Frieling, 22, an American University senior, recycles regularly at home and informs others that climate change is an issue.
Frieling stated that there is an easier and cheaper access to things such as plastic water bottles as opposed to a re-useable one.
“I wish it was cheaper to be more environmentally friendly,” Frieling said.
Kathleen Kearmey, 46, said she tries to be mindful and do little things to help.
“I read a new study saying how predictions for climate change are far worse than shown to the people,” Kearmey said.
“We need someone in a position of leadership to do something soon, because as individuals we cannot do enough,” she continued.
Charles Mulford, 68, stated how the garbage companies “pushed” recycling. Having a separate bin, and a different day dedicated to recycling, forced people like Mulford to recycle.
Richard Clrik, 83, stated “recycling comes automatically when you live in the city.”