In recent years our planet has been experiencing the terrible effects of human caused pollution, the effects are commonly referred to as global warming or climate change. Most people are familiar with the controversial topic because of recent media outlets theorizing that global warming is false. Although there are several non-believers most people are convinced by scientific research. NASA stated, “Scientists have high confidence that global temperatures will continue to rise for decades to come, largely due to greenhouse gases produced by human activities” (How Climate is Changing, 2018). On their website NASA warns that if the current issues continue, we will see more droughts, stronger hurricanes, higher sea levels, and an ice-free Arctic (How Climate is Changing, 2018).The United States Environmental Protection Agency has several suggestions that would help reduce the effects of climate change. One of the things the EPA suggests having community revitalization programs. One of these programs is the Smart grow. The EPA defines smart grow as, “covers a range of development and conservation strategies that help protect our health and natural environment and make our communities more attractive, economically stronger, and more socially diverse (EPA, 2018). Another type of program is Green Streets and Community Open Space. The open space part of the program is described as, “Any open piece of land that is undeveloped and is accessible to the public…there could be many creative opportunities for open space preservation that could help connect the community and revitalize its economy and social connectivity (EPA, 2018). There are many communities that have decided to take the results of scientific research and government suggestions and start programs that conserve, prevent, and restore nature. In Berks County, the Berks Nature Facility and its staff have come to the planet’s rescue. Berks Nature, armed with the belief that without nature we will not have a quality of life, is unlike other organizations and companies that only say they care about the environment because it is a trendy topic that could generate business. Berks Nature works hard every day to clean our county. The organization has initiated several projects that have helped beautify our surroundings. With their Urban Greening Community Gardening Program Berks Nature has been able to transform unused lots into community gardens where residents can plant their own vegetables. The organization also noticed the impact that our county has on the Schuylkill River and has designed programs to educate people about how we arm our water sources and how we can enhance the surrounding water quality. In the past year Berks Nature has built an educational community center in Angelica Park. The campus includes trails, a community garden, child friendly play area, and much more. Although Berks Nature is trying their best to help our environment, they cannot save the planet alone. All Berks County residents should try to do their part. People can become involved by joining programs that organize community cleaning events, donating to trusted organizations, and producing less waste or recycling the waste that is produced. For a long time, humans have selfishly taken from the planet now it is time to give back.
Berks Nature; Saving Our Planet
