Tag: Environmentalism
Environmentalism is not a partisan issue
The state of environmentalism in the United States, as well as abroad, has reached a crucial crossroads. For decades the political left has promoted, influenced and instituted positive policy in regards to climate change and the safety and well-being of our environment. The political polarization of issues regarding environmental policy did not happen immediately or…
To BREW amid climate change
Happy end of the school year, Cobbers! Most of the articles I have written this year have tried to tackle the question of what good action towards becoming a sustainable society means. At the end of this year I can confidently say that after writing countless articles about it, I’m not completely sure. What does…
Ronald Offutt and Toxic Taters
Do you like McDonald’s french fries? Do you like the Offutt School of Business? Do you like Minnesota farmers? I hope you answered yes to at least one of those questions. Though the scope of those three things seems pretty broad, there is a significant correlation between them that should be noticed. So, if you…
50 Shades of Green
The complexities of studying the environment Perplexing and thought-provoking, environmental studies is an intricate interdisciplinary subject, in which varies in methods and beliefs on how to tackle these sometimes daunting issues. Environmental issues, however, have been around for decades and often require urgency, thorough planning and sometimes-radical viewpoints. I often find myself asking, how do…
Exploding the truth behind mountaintop removal
Saving the Appalachian Mountains From the faucet a mucky sludge of toxin-filled water dispenses. No one can shower for extended periods of time, and water is only drunk from a bottle. The land is transformed completely, wildlife is scarce and the next dynamite blow could take away the place I call home. Illness has risen…
Technology: Dividing humanity from nature?
Disconnection from our roots can lead individuals to become ecologically illiterate. We occupy, consume and ruin the soil beneath our feet. Concrete and technology have become our niche, and human society has become selfish. Our latest worries are consumed by our looks, how many likes or favorites our posts receive, and how many material objects…
Cobber water phasing out
Last year’s campaign to eliminate disposable water bottles on Concordia’s campus is beginning to show results. In response to students’ interest in sustainability, the President’s Sustainability Council collaborated with campus administrators, such as those in Dining Services, and decided to take action. Dining Services associate director Janet Paul and the DS staff support the council’s…
Brethova synchronizes campus projects
It was back in elementary school that Kristin Brethova, Concordia College’s new sustainability coordinator, became concerned about the environment. Her class watched a video about electricity and where it comes from. What she remembers is an image of a little kid who turns on a light switch. Then, a new shot takes over the screen:…
Keystone politics
Whenever gas prices skyrocket, Americans suddenly become interested in our country’s dependence on foreign fossil fuels. A dramatic price jump is enough to force families to reconsider their taking separate cars to work and school or an afternoon run to Starbucks. Elected officials also become aware of their dissatisfaction. For politicians, since their ultimate goal…