(P16) Social Issue

   

     The social issue I have chosen to tackle for this project regards the working world and its effect on our climate and the world's people. Most adults have jobs, that's how we survive. Some are lucky enough to work outdoors, but for the most part we find ourselves confined under a roof, fluorescent lights shining down on us. And with this work comes consequences to our health and that of our environment. Every day, millions drive themselves to work nine to five and traffic congestion from this trek releases pollutants such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which provide a spread of negative affects to human and environmental health. Humans living within 300 meters of major roadways display heightened risk of developing asthma and lung cancer from exposure to particulate matter. The presence of major roadways subdivides animal habitats and restricts their area of activity. This is known as the "edge effect." Working life limits human exposure to nature which can create depression in those affected. Rapid, unchecked urbanization amplifies these adverse effects and can be difficult to control, as corporations behind environmental degradation are difficult to control.
     The causes and effects of these problems are not hard to find. The consequences of our unsustainable practices pervade the world we live in. Any vehicle I photograph is part of the problem. Any body of water I photograph is being adversely impacted by excessive water diversion, or even experiencing acidification due to carbon contents in our atmosphere. I tried capturing a spread of causes and effects of our issues. Most vehicles produce emissions, which is why I captured ships, planes and cars. I took pictures of the animals which suffer from air and water pollution, and of the nature that we miss out on with such a strict work schedule.
     If humans can begin to understand how they directly affect their surroundings, they may be more reluctant to act the way they do towards our environment. The working world must develop solutions to expose workers to nature and physical activities. I believe firmly that this will increase productivity and overall happiness. We must make efforts to expand public transportation to reduce net vehicle miles traveled over all commuting workers, and ensure that other types of vehicles are regulated and monitored for contributions to air quality. Together we can save this planet and secure our happiness.