able. In the U.S., we enjoy the freedom to vote for like minded officials and leaders. Our constitution gives us the right to speak freely and organize but these freedoms are only half the answer. We must take advantage of and exercise that freedom to make a difference. Individuals can effect change by identifying problems in their own communities and making their voices heard. Getting involved, organizing individuals at the grassroots level, and participating in local and national elections to effect the kind of change necessary for sustainable communities to flourish is what is needed.Slowly, the population is becoming aware of their unsustainable lifestyles and the effects. A recent Gallup poll acknowledges the increased awareness of individual citizens around the world. Pessimism about the future is pervasive in many nations, evidenced by the survey conducted in 17 countries. More than three-quarters of Venezuelans felt their children would be worse off in the future than they are now, where the earth's ecology is concerned. The Taiwanese were the most optimistic and the United States ranked 11th out of the 17 countries polled. What is going to be the catalyst for change? Is it the fact that we don't want to leave a legacy of dead ecosystems and unlivable areas due to contamination and pollution for our children and future generations? Arguably, the most important weapon against those that would pollute our air, water, and food sources is an educated citizenry. What if we are the polluters? Again, education and action is the key to resolving the problems associated with unsustainability. Once people understand the negative impact their decisions have on their environment and the importance of changing their lifestyles, their wiliness to change to more eco friendly behavior, allowing sustainable communities and lifestyles will follow. It has only been within the last thirty years that we have come to understand just how devastating o...
