Why the Environment is Important

Under an economic perspective the environment is important because of a matter of resources. However, natural resources are mainly important since they allow us to live. As resources in our planet are finite it is important to protect the ones that allows us to exist. The issue is that everything in nature is connected. Thus, changing one thing in nature has the potential to affect the entire ecosystem.

What is impressive is that mankind is pretty good at altering it. And most people that could do something to change their and our impacts towards the environment, seem to not pay attention to what they do or what they could do.

Economists would say this is mainly an issue of resource access. As the majority of people have enough economic resources to buy what they want/need, most of the times they do not consider in changing their way of living. But what would happen if this assertion would end? Imagine if one day we would instantly lack of potable water, or unpolluted land to raise our cattle, or grow our fruits and vegetables. How about oxygen? Would we reconsider our lifestyle? Many scholars are ready to declare that this is what will happen in a future scenario if we do not act to prevent it. Thus, why should we wait to do something before reaching that point?

On the other hand, there already are millions of people whose livelihood are compromised by climate change and environmental degradation issues. Part of the fault is because of the privileges we enjoy. Just think about the oil we use for our cars, the food we buy at the supermarket or the diamonds we buy to our fiancés and where they come from. Large part of these resources come from developing countries which tend to sacrifice their populations needs and environments in exchange of foreign investments.

One does not have to be a scholar to see that a non correct use of the resources may increase the scarcity of other resources (even those that are vital for us) or directly compromise the lives of others. Most people I know believe the environment should be considered as a government priority. But, when it comes to act in protection of it they do not pay attention to their impacts. Now that you know you can make a difference, what will you do?

So, before you do something think about where the stuff you are going to use or buy comes from and how you could reduce your environmental impact. For instance, if you have to take the elevator think if it is really necessary, before buying food think how much food you really need and where it comes from, if you leave a room then switch off the light. It is hard to believe, but things like that make a huge difference.

In the future we will post some videos with tips on how to reduce your environmental impact.