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Senior Synthesis Project Series: Pillar 2 - Environmentalism

    Like other people involved with environmental work, my connection to the environment is personal. I enjoy backpacking, hiking, sailing, skiing, and being outdoors in nature. I am fortunate to have had access to the outdoors all my life. The earth is 71 percent water, though we often take this for granted.  The earth, land, and water are interconnected, and everything we do on this planet can have cascading impacts. Research shows spending at least two hours a week in green/blue spaces is associated with better health and wellbeing. Still, these natural spaces have dwindled over the last several decades, making access more challenging, especially for people of color. 

    The ocean is a global connector, playing a crucial role in international trade. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), marine shipping is responsible for transporting about 90% of our global trade. It's important to note that marine shipping is the least environmentally damaging mode of transportation compared to land and air transportation. However, we must continue efforts to create more sustainable pathways. We need to strive for continuous improvement and create more sustainable pathways to ensure the health of our oceans and the planet. 

    Addressing climate change is undeniably one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The global marine litter problem, large vessel travel, land-based sources contributing to marine pollution, oil spills, and the spread of invasive species are all equally complex and interconnected issues that demand our immediate attention and action. 

    The first significant cause of pollution in Puget Sound was brought as European colonizers began logging. Henry L. Yesler started Seattle’s first steam-powered sawmill in early 1853. This sawmill was located in today’s Pioneer Square near Elliott Bay. Sawmills helped build early Seattle and built early industry. Sawmills and pulp mills create large amounts of sentiment and runoff from toxic chemicals. These factors can make it difficult for fish and other organisms to breathe and survive. 

Marine litter, particularly the plastic problem, has become extensive and affects even the most remote parts of the ocean. Plastic takes a long time to break down, and in the process, it becomes microplastics. These microplastics enter the food chain and are later consumed by us. Land-based pollution sources include runoff from agriculture and industry.  Too many chemicals and too much fertilizer can lead to massive amounts of algae and pollution in our water. Oil spills are often events that catch the media's attention quickly and have immediate, severe impacts on the environment. Preventing spills and creating more effective oil spill responses should remain a public issue. Invasive species from water discharge and hull fouling are a less visible but equally important issue.  Invasive species often disrupt local ecosystems and can outcompete native species, leading to long-term ecological shifts. All of these aspects lead to larger ecosystems and global disruptions.

Intersectionality is a key aspect of social justice movements, and we must consider the socioeconomic factors contributing to each movement. Organizations like Sailors for the Sea, Puget Soundkeepers, Sea Potential, US Sailing REACH Programming, and many local ports are working tirelessly to promote environmental education and ensure access for all to our natural world. But remember, each of us has a role to play in creating a sustainable future. There are numerous ways for you to act and contribute. Creating sustainable practices, volunteering with local cleanups, contributing fiscally, and educating the community are just a few ways to start.

Learn More & Take Action: 

Types of Eco Events: 

  • Environmental Clean Up 
  • Clothing Swap 
  • Plant/Seed Swap 
  • Repair & Mend Workshops/Gatherings 

Where to Find Eco Events: 

Many local organizations use Facebook, Instagram, and websites such as Eventbrite to promote their events. If you don't see one near you, start your own! 





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