The main reason I took this course was to inform myself about the environment and how it continues to be affected by humans. One of the most important factors that contribute to global warming are carbon dioxide emissions, which was the main focus of our project. However, I took this opportunity to raise awareness of another contributor to environmental harm, which is plastic bag usage. Although its main impact is waste, plastic bag usage still emits carbon dioxide through its production and lifecycle.

As a group we decided to implement plastic bags as our main idea. Together, we decided to completely stop the usage of plastic bags in order to reduce our carbon footprint and overall waste. Moreover, each of us were able to involve our families, thus reducing our carbon dioxide emission by a factor of up to 4. As I conducted research on plastic bags, I was surprised to find out how much more harmful they are than I thought. I didn’t know over 200 species had been affected or that there are areas in the ocean where there is so much trash that water is not visible. Reading about the places that have banned or charge for plastic bags made me realize how much of a difference it makes to be without plastic bags. Furthermore, I also realized that regardless of a ban, there is still a need for bags. Luckily, there are other options that could substitute them. While they may seem to do more harm than good, the main key to making an environmental impact is to reuse as many times as possible.

Aside from plastic bags, I also decided to implement another contribution to reducing my carbon footprint, which is shopping for clothes at thrift stores. I never realized how much the production and lifecycle of clothing affected the environment. However, by buying secondhand clothing, I reduced carbon dioxide emissions as I did not contribute to the production, transportation and starting lifecycle of new clothing. Furthermore, I also implemented some of my group members’ contributions. I learned the importance of raising/lowering the temperature even by one degree, driving less or carpooling/taking the public transportation if necessary, and reducing meat/dairy consumption.

During this course and project, I realized how strong the planet is due to its ability to endure the impacts that each one of us makes, which is more than we can imagine. As much as I try to contribute to its improvement, I know that I cannot do it alone. One of the most important actions to make is to raise awareness. I hope that I continue to help others understand the impacts of our actions or what we can do to have a safer and healthier environment for us and future generations.