Lack of Recycling and Pollution: Earth's Ticking Time Bombs

Let's say the human race was eradicated due to climate change. Every single human has gone off the face of the Earth. Some would say, “Oh no, the world is ending!”, but who said Earth would cease to exist? Frankly, the Earth would be thriving and in greater conditions without humans. A lack of recycling, usage of fossil fuels, and cutting down forests were the main causes that resulted in the death of about 8 billion people. Nonetheless, our deaths were not inevitable; we could have fought for quality living conditions whilst still keeping a stable Earth, and we still can. Negative climate change effects are rapidly increasing and are on track to endanger the human race. Properly recycling, reusing, and reducing pollution can help change our fate, and it is up to you whether you want to help or not.

You may be yearning for an explanation as to why a lack of recycling and pollution contributes to climate change, so here it is. According to King County, “If you throw away even half the paper you use in a year instead of recycling it, you increase your climate pollution by the same amount as driving 526 miles”. Paying close attention to what you throw away or recycle can prevent pollution, no matter the size or amount of an item you are recycling. Pollution can occur in a variety of ways; through air, water, soil, nuclear, and thermal pollution. Air pollution has a great effect on the environment, especially humans. The air quality is affected which can prevent humans from performing certain activities, or even cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and/or irritation. Low-quality air can also affect crops and trees, reducing the growth and survivability of each. Further, recycling can not only prevent climate change but also save energy. According to Pocatello News, “A single recycled plastic bottle saves enough energy to run a 100-watt bulb for four hours”. Your choices every day can determine whether you contribute to global warming and climate change or not, even if it was unintentional.

Now I have probably got you wondering what the world is doing right now to prevent climate change and encourage recycling. There is such a thing called the Paris Agreement, in which 200 countries agreed to work together on the issue of global warming and climate change. Each country sets up its own goals to meet in 5-year increments and this is reviewed every 5 years. Also, there are more than 1,000 facilities in just the U.S. dedicated to properly recycling materials.

You can get involved by spreading awareness about the lack of recycling, and increasing pollution. Participating in volunteering opportunities, donating to charities, reusing infinitely recyclable materials, such as metal and glass, and just watching what you throw away or recycle are actions that you can take to prevent further climate change. It is up to you whether you want to take action now or suffer the consequences.