[Best of 21 JSR] Student’s Take on The Lorax Project

This article was originally published on February 18, 2019

Climate Change is real, Global Warming is here, and yet the world stays silent. In the past century alone, carbon dioxide emissions have increased on a far greater level than predicted. Carbon Dioxide emissions are growing exponentially with increasing reliance on fossil fuels, consequential obliteration of forests, and irreversible consumption of natural resources. Just last week, Canada and the United States witnessed record breaking temperatures brought by the Polar Vortex. The cause of this deadly catastrophe was none other than the warming of sea temperatures that dragged arctic air down. 

 

Sea levels are rising at an alarming rate threatening cities all over the world. According to the United Nations, “[We] still find ourselves in a situation where we are not doing nearly enough to save hundreds of millions of people from a miserable future… 275 million people worldwide live in areas that will eventually be flooded at 3C of global warming.” Upon learning about this world wide crisis, students at Crescenta Valley High School’s AP Environmental Class have participated in the Lorax Project.

 

The Lorax Project, based on one of Dr. Seuss’ famous books, deals with the negative effects of human consumption on the environment. The Lorax Project aims to raise awareness amongst students all over the United States by identifying environmentally positive and negative items in which they can discuss. Students are required to take their “Lorax” with them as they go on with their daily lives. After taking pictures, students are assigned to write letters to send to peers in different schools all over the world. 

 

A small excerpt of a letter I once wrote said , “last week I was out with my Lorax at my local supermarket when I came across the fresh fruit and vegetable section. Upon looking for healthy snacks for the following day’s lunch, I noticed apple slices that were individually packaged in plastic wrap and then further repackaged in a plastic container. I was flabbergasted by the unnecessary and excess use of plastic and instantly remembered last semester’s chapter on waste disposal and plastic usage”. And, by sending such a letter which also included statistical data about plastic usage, I became a small part of the solution. 

Through the Lorax Project, I became more conscious of environmental aspects in my daily life. And, I believe that possible solutions to plastic usage can be biodegradable alternatives. In today’s world with ongoing Global warming and a growing throw-away society it is essential for individuals to be more conscious of the decisions they make. Although I fear the present day effects of global warming, I believe that conditions can be changed through environmentally friendly alternatives in energy sources, commercial products, and food choices. 

 

Hopefully, more students participating in the Lorax Project can help raise awareness and make small contributions towards a better future. 

 

Caroline Kim, Grade 12

Crescenta Valley High School