Nowhere to Run: Part Two
So, we know the planet has immense problems: What do we do about it? I am one person and this is not enough. Wrong! We owe assistance NOW to all current and future generations.
Today, it's finally raining in Austin after several years in ongoing drought; and, Lake Travis remains at its lowest levels since the previous 1957 record drought. If these conditions continue, thousands (including most Austinites) who depend on this primary water source may be impacted and I wonder: How? What will this mean?
Having grown up near Lake Travis, it never occured to me that we would ever see our neighbors in Spicewood Beach running out of water but they already have and this will impact everyone if the rains do not return in large measure. The personal and economic impacts to this area would be devastating and they are worth contemplating now. Does this mean we will all need to move? What about anyone who cannot afford it? We do not need to wait until there is a crisis to take action in simple ways. Here's how (in no particular order) from humble human observation from a perspective without panic, but deep and profound concern:
Today, it's finally raining in Austin after several years in ongoing drought; and, Lake Travis remains at its lowest levels since the previous 1957 record drought. If these conditions continue, thousands (including most Austinites) who depend on this primary water source may be impacted and I wonder: How? What will this mean?
Having grown up near Lake Travis, it never occured to me that we would ever see our neighbors in Spicewood Beach running out of water but they already have and this will impact everyone if the rains do not return in large measure. The personal and economic impacts to this area would be devastating and they are worth contemplating now. Does this mean we will all need to move? What about anyone who cannot afford it? We do not need to wait until there is a crisis to take action in simple ways. Here's how (in no particular order) from humble human observation from a perspective without panic, but deep and profound concern:
- Learn about our planet and how it functions (separate fact from fiction) - this is not an easy task but an important one;
- Did you know? Texas is the nation's biggest greenhouse gas emitter compared to the nation's most populous states? Take a look at this infographic from the Victoria Advocate (Dec. 22, 2013) - it is shocking to see what 400+ million metric tons in emissions looks like by comparison to these other states;
- Think critically - challenge your own assumptions and what you hear from others - I really like this poster; and, extra sloppy kisses to Carl Sagan via Maria Popova.
- Don't be frightened - fear is a good motivator but it can also cause paranoia or inaction. This especially goes for science or math, since we tend to fear what we don't understand - stop it - and try to learn as much as you can!;
- Think about where you can save resources (especially drinking water). For the longest time, I would brush my teeth or hands and leave the water running - not anymore. Maybe take fewer showers and wash your hair every other day (or less, if possible)?;
- Take public transportation or ride a bike. I really hate that we don't do a better job with this in the United States but millions are left out (rural or city);
- Consider driving a more fuel efficient car - my own gas guzzlers (v6's) are paid for so this may be awhile but it's on the radar for next time;
- Wash and dry clean as little as possible - own fewer clothes (am working on this one as well);
- Own less stuff - fewer things mean fewer resources are used to create, keep, and maintain;
- Write and talk to your state representatives in a kind way. Be a "nice brains since no one likes a mean brains" with deepest thanks to Jenny C. (a colleague from many eons ago) for this wonderful phrase! Also, encourage your reps to understand the issues - money talks but it's also very worthless when there's no more planet!;
- Turn the lights off - a great way to see more stars, too!;
- Recycle (clothes, too!) - not a perfect solution, perhaps, but better than landfills;
- Regretfully, there is no current incentive for polluting companies to find alternative ways to make money (they are doing just fine already...thank you). I don't have an answer for this quandry but it's one I think about often and realize there must be a way because we all have to live here;
