As the California fires continue to wreak havoc on anyone on its path, we as Michiganders will take note. Despite the geographic barrier and different landscapes, this disaster is fueled by our negligence. We can prevent events of similar or greater magnitude if we acknowledge its lessons.
We should unanimously agree that climate change is real and not a conspiracy theory. Consider climate change a result of all the naïve decisions we made as global citizens. The LA fires may be impacting the west coast, but everyone is equally to blame.
Michigan has an abundance of greenery. Come fall and you see the spectacle winter wonderland has to offer. I can still see a blazing inferno raging through the state as temperatures are rising annually. By understanding our unique ecology and forest management practices, we can be more proactive in eliminating the perfect ingredients for a wildfire head on.
We should up the ante in advocating for change. Preserving wildlife and natural habitats were on the ballot in the election. Demanding more from our state leaders, think tanks and shareholders will ensure a more holistic approach towards sustainable forest practices.
Lobbying for policies that seriously enact a smaller carbon footprint will also pay dividends. What is most important however is educating ourselves on the cause and effect relationship of climate change. By taking classes such as ecology which is also a gen ed course for many majors will make us more informed on what we can do and what needs to change.
Community trumps sophistication in any natural disaster. We need to understand that communities are not just made when our neighbors’ houses are being bludgeoned by the gusty winds or the ruthless tornado. Communities are made and strengthened over many years of dialogue and collective action.
This is the prime time to organize campus events and streamline the process through a club that just does not meet weekly for board games. The club should be monitored by professors, administrators and anyone willing to spread awareness of the severity of fluctuating temperatures. By being a trusted source and funnel for all things related to prevention of natural disasters, SVSU can do wonders to spread the message to Lansing.
Designing proper protocols for evacuation strategies have never been so important. In the event of a natural disaster, there is a lot of apathy and confusion as evident in many disgruntled house owners refusing to leave in California. We should teach ourselves and our loved ones survival instincts that will save our lives in the next disaster.
There are some seemingly menial but impactful habits you can embrace to do your part. Our cars take a beating in our salty roads which leads to worn brake pads. Give them long enough and they start generating sparks. Make sure your car is well maintained so it does not prove to be the catalyst to another disaster.
Properly disposing trash and not littering also helps. If you must walk half a block to find a trash can, do not put your college education to waste and walk that half a block.
