As an American, former Girl Scout, and human, I love the great outdoors. My summers are typically spent hammocking, biking, and going to the beach. Although I've always felt humbled by the incredible existence of towering trees and stunning ocean views, this summer I am more appreciative of the life I am surrounded by when I step outdoors. Part of this is due to the environmentally-focused courses I took this past year, but more urgently, I am called to share my admiration of our natural world in response to the actions of others; most notably, President Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord.
Foremost, I recognize that this decision was that of one person. This choice, disappointing to me and millions of others internationally, does not reflect the way I feel the United States should approach and discuss interactions with the environment. I was comforted by the words of French President Emmanuel Macron, who believes in the determination, capabilities, and intelligence of American scientists, engineers, and environmentalists, even inviting them to move to France and work towards environmental solutions (video and article here!).
I have sought affirmation in scientific literature, discussions with friends, and political commentary. If I learned anything from my education this year, it's that human existence on Earth is on a trajectory to chaos and every major decision regarding the environment has the capability of impacting the speed at which we reach our final destination. True, this may not happen in our lifetime, but it will happen in the lifetimes of those that come after us. Why should they be responsible for cleaning up a mess they didn't make?
I have vowed to spend more time outdoors charged with the simple task of admiring the flora and fauna around me. My family has undertaken stricter recycling habits as well as additional conservational practices. There are some unavoidable necessities, such as cars, due to the location of my home in conjunction with the size of my family. However, our efforts are not to be discounted. They may not be significant enough to impact the footprint of our state, county, or community, but knowing that we are doing our best to do the right thing by the entity which has given us everything is enough of a reward.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."- Margaret Mead
The truth is, I'm lucky to spend so much time in untouched nature. The trees in my yard weren't planted by anyone as far as I know; their immense size alludes to a history preceding the terms of several presidents. I am able to purchase and sometimes grow my own fresh fruit and vegetables. If my interactions with the natural world were not unique, or even common to specific socioeconomic identities, I honestly believe our country would view the undeniable changes in our environment as serious threats if every single person was afforded a daily, natural interaction with the pure environment.
No, I'm not the biggest animal person, but even I am capable of finding reasons to enjoy the company of a squirrel or chipmunk as I silently observe my surroundings. My personal grievances with President Trump aside, I fear that his recent decision will only lead to greater uncertainty of our country's future. Regardless of anyone else's opinion or relationship with the environment, I have a feeling that in the years to come, my love for the environment will be far from diminished, whether I will be living in the United States or France.
