The planet needs help. People created the problems, so it’s up to people to solve them. The atmosphere is warming up, leading to serious storms and causing the ice caps to melt. Pollution from factories, cars, and people makes the air and water dirty. Chemicals that are made in laboratories and used in everyday products end up in the bodies of polar bears and humans alike. Species are going extinct faster than at any other time in history.
It’s a pretty dire picture when you examine it all at once, but if you look at it piece by piece you can quickly see how opportunities there are for people to turn things around. It’s time to set aside differences and come together for the common goal of a healthy future.
ESSENTIAL
Many people all over the world have already begun making the changes necessary to protect the planet, but there is still much, much more to do. Every day is a new chance to teach another person, spark another solution, and create a better tomorrow.
How can you create a green classroom if school isn’t thinking green yet? Make the transitions easier by making your intentions transparent. Write letters to the school administrators and parents. Let them now you feel it’s important to raise responsible global citizens who care for the Earth. Invite them to share ideas for teaching the students or making changes at the school. If they need additional convincing, tell them that going green is not just about protecting the planet: It also protects human health and saves money. The monetary savings are generally a clincher for schools.
Still, you know your principal, and perhaps the best way to get started is just to do it! Let the administration come to you if they have any concerns. A key to communicating your intentions in a less-than-hospitable community is by making sure you are using positive language instead of coming of as judgmental. Remember to pat people on the back for every small act and every little idea. It’s much harder to teach adults to change their behavior (that’s why it’s important to start with children), so take things slow and encourage cooperation by keeping things easy. It’s all about patience, persistence, practically, and positivism. Before you know it, the children will be leading by example and the adults will have no other choice but to follow.