A Greener Tomorrow: International Day for Biological Diversity
To celebrate The International Day for Biological Diversity, we sat down with Carly Macdonald, a 3rd-year Biology student, vegan, and sustainability enthusiast.
Q: Could you please describe your background and experience in climate and environmental science? When did you first become interested in climate change, and what type of work have you done in the past related to this topic
A: I’m still in school as of now, so I don’t have very much experience, but my program includes a broad scope of biology. I was first interested in fighting climate change and living sustainably when I was around 14 years old. A Youtuber I watched was talking about a video she saw about slaughterhouses - it’s called “if slaughterhouses had glass walls” or something similar, but she was talking about the ethics involved and what impact the meat industry has on the environment. Seeing what has to happen to get the food I eat really scared me, and I didn’t want to contribute to that. After that, the environment was something I really cared about, with a focus on animals. I have been plant-based for about 5 years now, and I want to work in a field where I can protect animals or assist in climate research.
Q: In your opinion, why is it important that young people are involved in advocacy efforts related to climate change? Do you believe that climate change has a particular impact on young people?
A: I think it’s important because it involves all of us. We are the ones that will be living in the aftermath of corporate greed. I think that we need to care about our planet now in order to preserve it for future generations. The reason older generations and large corporations don’t care as much is because, within their lifespan, they will not have to deal with the damage. The goal is a mass accumulation of wealth, and there is no care for the environment or anyone else. It’s important for us to not take nature for granted and to do our best to preserve it.
Climate change has had an impact on younger generations because it gives us a greater purpose with good intentions. The people who share this mindset also share a similar set of characteristics centered around sustainability and a shared responsibility to care for our planet. As a result, they attract similar people who hold the same attitude, creating a positive community.
Q: What are your thoughts on how changes in food production and consumption might impact climate change, and what steps can you take to advocate for these changes?
A: I think that sustainable farming and consumption will create a larger net-positive impact on the environment. The major sources of pollution are cattle, transportation, and food waste, which can be solved by implementing more community-based produce and more plant-based options. However, for most people, the facilities to change these things aren’t within our reach, but there are other ways to make an impact. As we have seen through recent years, veganism and plant-based diets have become much more frequent. As a result, companies and restaurants have catered to these dietary changes. We can manipulate the production of sustainable merchandise and food products by boycotting products we don’t like and purchasing the ones we do. This is a direct course of action that anyone can do and is much more rewarding, as we can actively make an impact (no matter how small). Buying locally, shopping at farmer’s markets, and supporting local farmers are simple ways of giving back to the community and the environment within our capabilities.
