2007 Essay Contest Finalist

Entry by Moniyka Sachar

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that has.” said Margaret Mead, a famous anthropologist. The East Bay community holds many hands-on local environment projects involving the citizens. Not only are geologists zealous in this community about the quest for knowledge, but local citizens are as avid. Global warming is a colossal event occurring on the Earth. My community is already one step ahead; for zero waste, transportation alternatives, and the exploration of renewable energy (solar panels, wind mills and turbines). Our city schools have recycling and science clubs that provide students with the opportunities to impact the Earth. Our Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program protects creeks, wetlands, and the San Francisco Bay. As a result, scientists can record and observe the natural findings in these protected areas.

Don Edwards Regional Park, one of the largest urban wildlife refuges in the country, is in our backyard. Local people hold Earth Day celebrations to explore the dependency of wildlife on wetlands and to the San Francisco Bay. Fremont held an earthquake exhibition showcasing the seismological phenomenon of the Hayward fault. Understandings of how faults work would help us better recognize the causes of earthquakes that have occurred in our history. My elementary school has a seismograph, the recordings of which are shared with the school community.

The tule pond, a wildlife sanctuary, holds science days to help educate students about the importance of storm water. The White Egrets habitat at our local lake is endangered because of soil erosion, and students are assisting.

The scientific pursuits to study the local environment helps us unleash the beautiful balance of the fragile coexistence that we cherish. We the people can make small steps to preserve our planet.