Environmental pollution is one the biggest threats our planet has been facing since the last century. Its severity has led people to debate on the ways to reduce the damages towards nature, with some pointing out the crucial role of the single individuals and others highlighting, instead, the need for commitment from governments and large companies. This essay will discuss the positive and negative aspects of individuals being in first line to protect the environment.
To begin with, the first strength point is the development of the environmental ethic. People of all ages would become aware of how even their smallest action can have a negative impact on nature, thus realizing the need to change their daily habits. Moreover, putting citizens in first line might also help fostering their sense of community: initiatives such as cleaning parks, beaches and streets would not only help people respect their environment much more, but they would also be the right occasions to build social relationships with other individuals, creating the idea of being a part of one huge family.
However, this approach has its downsides too. One of the major drawbacks is the little impact of people’s actions in the bigger picture of environmental changes. Even though common citizens would engage in a more sustainable lifestyle, problems like gas emissions, climate change and ice melting will still be a reality unless governments decide to take serious actions to regulate the activities of large companies, which are the ones most responsible for environmental pollution. The efforts put by individuals would make the difference if industries as well engaged in an environmental-friendly type of production.
In conclusion, it is reasonable to say that people’s effort in the protection of the environment is fundamental, but it is also rightful to say that it needs to be supported by a much more ethical approach by global companies and governments, which are really the ones guiding our world.