As time passes on, it seems like we're seeing more and more news about environmental degradation. From rising sea levels, increased rates of species extinction, to the heightened intensity of storms, the effects are becoming more undeniable. Here in Chicago specifically, we've had very irregular seasons and yes, while Chicago is known for having unusual weather patterns, these last few have been even more extreme. With the increased number of stories and studies being done by scientists, it's surprising and even disturbing to read about and see so many people who continue to deny or challenge the issue.

I'm always a bit mind blown when I still hear the "climate change is a hoax" argument or that it's a "scam." Obviously, our president's views are not contributing to any progress in terms of sustainability solutions. Time and time again I come across the avid Trump supporter who refuses to acknowledge the issue. My response to them is this: just because you voted for him doesn't mean you need to support EVERY move he makes. It's okay to swallow the pride pill and stop turning a blind eye to some of the moves he makes. Take for instance the EPA budget cutting, or to quote Mr. President "...end the EPA"; with all of the major incidents going on in the world and knowing how many people rely on the EPA for research and proposals, this is a major blow. What's more is that it was still done even though it's one of the only programs we have that address the issue. While it was done to "bring back jobs" to Americans who work in the coal mining industry, the bigger picture needs to be prioritized.

This is not a Democrat or Republican problem and truthfully, it needs to stop being treated that way. The problem is much bigger than this continual, redundant debate. While peoples' jobs should be valued and are important, please remember that there is no need for jobs of any kind on a dead planet (this is the aforementioned "bigger picture" if you're catching my drift). Are you honestly that in denial that you have to come up with some ridiculous excuse for every environmental disaster we're facing? How can the evidence including coral reef bleaching, melting glaciers, increased rates of species extinction, and heightened intensity of worldwide storms not be enough? Do you honestly believe human manipulation, world population, and resource consumption have nothing to do with it? It has everything to do with it; scientists don't release these studies, put their lives in danger, and present their findings to have them be written off as inevitable by deniers sitting behind a computer screen.

Whatever the reason people publicly claim to disregard the issue, I see it as a personal psychological problem where no one wants to admit they're wrong, or just blatant overlooking because they're too passive to do any kind of advocating. Either way, it's time to take a step back and set aside human pride and selfishness. We must remember that we are merely another species...just another form of life. Earth is not just our home, but unfortunately this mindset infects too many people. And on that note...denying the issue of climate change, removing it from the White House website, and destroying programs are not eliminating it.