According to World Bank, there are almost seven billion people living on earth today, all of which are unique in their own ways. However, every one of those seven billion people have something in common; garbage. This is a ubiquitous aspect that affects not only one’s own life, but the lives of others as well. Although it does not affect others directly, indirect ways are just as harmful. To look at it at a macro level is to view the world through each city, and then see the cities as living things that consume resources (Global Environmental History, 2012). For example, London consumes seven million metric tons of food, 94 million liters of bottled water, and produce 26 million metric tons of garbage every year (Global Environmental History, 2012). Such massive levels of consumption have resulted in the massive production of garbage, and it all starts with a decision; the decision to purchase. Many economists will argue that consumption is a necessity for economic growth, and they are right. However, it is how the city manage the changes that results from economic growth that determines the future success of the city. It’s not to say that current cities are not sustainable, but improvements can always be made. It is only through collective action that real impact can be made towards sustainability and better prospects for the future.
The following photo is the first stage of how a simple wrapper goes from the hands of the producer, to the consumer, and then into the trash bin.
All Wrapped Up.
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