The green sheen

Environmental problems have always weighed on the conscience of society. As children, many learn about pollution and the different ways we contribute to it. Many are also taught to segregate and not be wasteful. In the same way that we are taught to respect others, we are taught to save our world, or whatever remains of it.

With the growing interest in environmental issues, many have begun to use knowledge and technology to find solutions for environmental problems. The environment is now on everyone’s mind, and sustainable living has become more accessible to the general public. However, as things develop into something bigger than itself, this interest becomes vulnerable to the exploitation of those in power and the miseducation of those who are only beginning to understand the movement.

Corporations now use “green” methods that vary from boasting “conscious” fashion to the mere use of environmental imagery on their products. In most cases, the use of these methods places the responsibility on consumers instead of producers, where the responsibility rightfully belongs. Being “sustainable” has turned into something for the masses, oftentimes going against the main goal of those who fight for our environment.

In the end, it all boils down to all of us, producers and consumers alike. It comes down to how hard we are willing to work for our environment, how much we are willing to give for the sake of everyone else, and the times we will allow ourselves to sacrifice and fight for the future of our world.