What is a Challenge?:
The textbook definition of a challenge reads as a stimulating task (or problem) that can be presented in a multitude of ways. Based off of this, it’s easy to see that the term itself is loose – but harder to understand why its versatility makes it so significant.
Have you ever wondered where we would be, had challenges not presented themselves to invite advancement?
Fish filter oxygen from water after evolving to possess gills; this is in response to a challenge.
Plants process sunlight in a complex operation of photosynthesis; this is in response to a challenge.
Even the smallest subatomic particle has to face challenges to accomplish creating something more, altering forms entirely out of nothing just to continue forward towards something.
Thus, everything and anything is in a constant state of interactive evolution, (including humans.) Instinctively, just as every other organism, we have a scientifically undefined drive built into us that tells us to keep going, no matter what challenges we are presented with. We continue living, continue reproducing, continue evolving, and we do whatever it takes to continue.
The intrinsic desire to problem solve found in us proves that we can, and will be able to overcome one of the biggest challenges we’ve faced to this date; the climate crisis.
How do I not Feel Intimidated by Such a Challenge?:
According to a poll conducted by Pew Research Center, two thirds of Americans favor developing alternative energy over investing in fossil fuels.
Know that others care too. You are not alone!
Organic agricultural farms have tripled worldwide.If the consumer demands it, companies will provide it. Hence, we have a voice. Buy responsibly and demand ethical products!
Costa Rica, a country that has faced grave environmental exploitation within the last 10 years, now gets 95% of its electricity from renewable sources, and plans to be carbon neutral by 2021.
It’s possible to establish and practice change quickly, on a national level. Your voice is making a difference and will continue to do so.
The choices that you make have the ability to help the world.
What Can I do to Help?:
Vote for representatives that have expressed that they not only acknowledge the existence of climate change, but also have plans of action to help fight it. Get your friends to vote.
Limit meat consumption. Diet is the #1 way an individual can impact sustainability.
Use reusable items. Even the cafe offers green to-go containers that can be purchased with flex dollars!
Take the Environmental Science + Lab or Environmental Ethics course at SHU. Environmental Science + Lab Counts for the Liberal Arts lab/science requirement; Environmental Ethics counts for philosophy Liberal Arts credit.
Don’t lose hope.
Instead of seeing our difficulties like bottomless empty pits, we must see them as challenges that require creative problem solving. It’s all about looking at things and remembering there is a positive way to view them. Let’s take on the challenge, together.
Published by Caitlin Srager