Aaron Fyke: A Global Initiative Program Event
Last week, I attended Polytechnic’s first Global Initiative Program (GIP) event where renowned environmentalist expert Aaron Fyke spoke about the need to devote our attention towards climate change now more than ever. This event really refreshed my mind realize global warming is a “now” problem and that we need to dramatically change our habits to prevent the consequences of global warming.
His first segment of the presentation included quite the bleak and depressing outlook as he examined our current carbon emissions and non-environmentally friendly habits. Fyke’s use of original data and statistics deepened my understanding even though I felt I had a pretty knowledgeable about climate change. Through his statistics, he really convinced the audience the severity of climate change.
Fyke then transitioned to a more positive outlook on how countries have begun to use more renewable energy and adopt environmentally friendly practices. Again, he made powerful arguments and statements through his various graphs depicting how both developed and developing countries are progressively understanding the dire effects of climate change and the need to change. Fyke also mentioned how there are now multiple economic benefits from transitioning from coal to renewable energy such as solar and wind. He explained how the cost of installation for wind and solar power have dramatically dropped over the years, which has provided countries and large companies to switch over to renewable energy.
Overall, I found the event to be very informative and awakening. Mr. Fyke has done tremendous work in helping create organizations to help combat global warming. One aspect of the event I would’ve liked to hear more about is what we could’ve done in combating global warming. While he did offer ways of helping such as pursuing a major or profession in the areas of sustainability and climate change, I felt such a solution would require time; however, global warming is a current problem that needs current acts of change now. Nevertheless, Mr. Fyke really made me question my current habits and how I can help change my community to become a more sustainable and eco-friendly one.
