Student Groups Against Plastic: Being A Global Citizen
GIVE student groups across the world came together last week to rally around a common cause: to start a conversation about plastic. The conversations were based around the environmental harm of single-use plastics, and shifted to suggest different ways for individuals to be more conscious of how their plastic use has far-reaching global consequences.
Global citizenship encompasses an awareness of an individual’s impact around the globe, and their desire to bring that consciousness into decisions made in their every day life. Here is a prime example of how we as individuals can come together to make small changes to reduce our impact!
“The average American throws away 185 lbs of plastic each year”
Colorado State University: Boulder GIVErs organized a similar pledge to the one USF GIVE put together, coupled with some important facts about the environmental effects of plastic. Some things they asked participants to pledge against include: plastic straws, water-bottles, bags, cups, containers, plates, cutlery, and k-cups. Replacing these single-use plastic items with reusable alternatives will inevitably reduce the individual’s overall plastic footprint.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead