The Lancer caught up with Environmental Science teacher Heather Farrell to discuss her thoughts on the climate change crisis and the future of the planet.
The Lancer: Where do you think the apathy towards climate change comes from?
Farrell: “Unfortunately, history has shown us that people don’t tend to act or take notice until something affects them personally. For many people, climate change may seem like someone else’s problem, and they may feel bad for them, but it isn’t them who is having to deal with the issue or the aftermath personally.”
The Lancer: Do you think our generation chooses to have apathy or were we just born in an apathetic era?
Farrell: “I think your generation is sometimes so engrossed in the “tech” aspect of our world that sometimes you lose perspective of the world around you. It is easy to jump on social media but it takes more of a focused effort to walk away from the tech and get into nature. Social media also tends to place you in an “echo chamber” where you are surrounded by ads and people who think the exact same as you do. The echo chamber effect on social media can exacerbate divisions on climate change, making it difficult to reach a consensus and make forward progress.”
The Lancer: What are small, everyday things that we do that may have an impact on climate change and we don’t realize?
Farrell: “Back to social media and the tech world, every time you log in you are using energy through the infrastructure behind social media. The platforms require significant energy to operate, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.”
The Lancer: What are small, everyday changes we can make to help the environment?
Farrell: “If we focus on everyday routines; making sure lights are turned off when we leave a room, unplug everything when not using it, only run full loads of dishes or laundry, and of course, turn off the water while you brush your teeth or wash dishes; every little bit can help. When you go out, carry your own reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic bottles. It is also a good idea to have your own reusable straw and your own utensils. If you have to use single-use plastics, don’t make them single-use. Take them home, wash the utensils and re-use them. Carpool, walk, or ride a bike whenever possible. If you have the means, buy a hybrid or electric car. Shop second-hand stores rather than always buying new, and if something breaks, fix it rather than buying a new one.”
The Lancer: Have we gotten to the point of no return in regards to climate change?
Farrell: “I don’t think we are completely there yet, but I do think that we are very close. Humans around the world are not acting fast enough. There seems to be this feeling of “we will get it fixed eventually” and unfortunately, we don’t have that kind of time. The importance of solving this crisis should be a number one priority for all, and yet not enough people seem to understand the consequences of this crisis. It doesn’t matter what country you live in or your economic status, all humans will be and are being affected by climate change.”
The Lancer: What were the main causes of climate change, say, 30 years ago, vs. now?
Farrell: “The main causes of climate change haven’t really changed, but they have intensified. The main driver is the burning of fossil fuels. As the world’s population grows exponentially, more and more people need food, housing, cars, stuff, etc., and these days, that all mostly still takes fossil fuels to make. We are also seeing a rise in affluence which leads to more waste.”
The Lancer: Was there a moment when you spoke to a student about climate change and it made you optimistic or pessimistic about the future?
Farrell: My students bring me hope for a better future. They didn’t create the crisis we are all in, but they are the ones who will have to fix it and rise up to meet the challenge. I read something today that said FEAR has 2 meanings and I think it applies to our global battle against climate change. It can mean “Forget Everything and Run” or it can mean “Face Everything and Rise”. I have hopes that as the students of today are educated about the world around them and learn to think for themselves, to ask questions, to be critical thinkers, and to challenge everything, we can start heading in the right direction. When [my students] start to really open their eyes and truly see nature and the world around them, they give me hope.
The Lancer: What efforts are you making to educate your students about climate change, beyond what may already be in the textbooks?
Farrell: “I stick to the science, and I bring in current events and show real-world examples to give the students an idea about what changes are happening around the globe. I post volunteer opportunities to get out into nature such as trail work, beach cleanups, seed sorting for the national parks, and recycling events.”
