While the West Coast battles raging wildfires, Toronto is struggling with flooding. Puerto Ricans are preparing for another hurricane season after struggling to repair the damage from Hurricane Maria, which struck last year. Much of the blame for these natural disasters can be put on man-made climate change. Rising levels of greenhouse gases have increased global temperatures and altered weather patterns worldwide. Undoubtedly, solving an issue of this magnitude requires cooperation between governments and corporations. But as Adrian Sin, Co-Chair of the Innis Residence Environmental Committee, cannot stress enough, students have a part to play too.

“It’s definitely something that as young people, it’s very important for us to be aware of… It’s really important for students to become educated,” said Adrian.

Student voices have the potential to shape current and future policies that can combat climate change. While U of T has made good progress in implementing environmentally friendly policies and research, the university could do better. Some of the new buildings are one step ahead of the game, but many older structures could benefit from green renovations. At Innis Residence, for example, poorly insulated windows encourage excessive use of the heating system, leading to rising student fees and unnecessary energy consumption.

On a larger scale, students can write to their local government representatives, stressing the importance of the issue of climate change. Over the summer, Ontarians put the Progressive Conservative party in office, who immediately called for the cancellation of green initiatives and the repeal of cap and trade in Ontario. “Our current premier is 55 years old and as he approaches his retirement age, he won’t experience the effects of his actions on the environment… it’s definitely a step back,” said Adrian. Students have the opportunity to reach out to their governments and support representatives that stress the importance of climate change reduction policies.

For those hoping to be less involved in policy, Sin also recommended simple lifestyle changes. “Ideally, I’d like to see people to take some effort to learn about climate change and how it affects us today. It’s good to take proactive steps.” This can include simple things like avoiding plastic straws when they’re not needed, or turning off the lights before leaving a room. In Toronto, students should always consider using public transit or walking before grabbing the keys to a car. Students should also make an effort to reduce meat consumption which, in addition to being environmentally friendly, is a healthier option. Seemingly minor changes can play a large part when many individuals act together.

At the end of the day, education is the primary goal of the Innis Residence Environmental Committee. Adrian commented, “I don’t think people understand what climate change is.” Annually, the Environmental Committee has put on events to teach students environmentally friendly practices and has advocated for changes throughout the residence. Their efforts have been recognized by the university, certifying the residence as Green Residence.

The Innis Residence Environmental Committee will have Co-Chair applications available for students in early September and Representative applications in mid-September. “I encourage everyone to really look into climate change. The way I’ve always thought of it is we’re always taking from the Earth and we’re never giving back to it.”