how to help the environment in your community essay

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How to Write the Community Essay – Guide with Examples (2023-24)

September 6, 2023

Students applying to college this year will inevitably confront the community essay. In fact, most students will end up responding to several community essay prompts for different schools. For this reason, you should know more than simply how to approach the community essay as a genre. Rather, you will want to learn how to decipher the nuances of each particular prompt, in order to adapt your response appropriately. In this article, we’ll show you how to do just that, through several community essay examples. These examples will also demonstrate how to avoid cliché and make the community essay authentically and convincingly your own.

Emphasis on Community

Do keep in mind that inherent in the word “community” is the idea of multiple people. The personal statement already provides you with a chance to tell the college admissions committee about yourself as an individual. The community essay, however, suggests that you depict yourself among others. You can use this opportunity to your advantage by showing off interpersonal skills, for example. Or, perhaps you wish to relate a moment that forged important relationships. This in turn will indicate what kind of connections you’ll make in the classroom with college peers and professors.

Apart from comprising numerous people, a community can appear in many shapes and sizes. It could be as small as a volleyball team, or as large as a diaspora. It could fill a town soup kitchen, or spread across five boroughs. In fact, due to the internet, certain communities today don’t even require a physical place to congregate. Communities can form around a shared identity, shared place, shared hobby, shared ideology, or shared call to action. They can even arise due to a shared yet unforeseen circumstance.

What is the Community Essay All About?             

In a nutshell, the community essay should exhibit three things:

• An aspect of yourself, 2. in the context of a community you belonged to, and 3. how this experience may shape your contribution to the community you’ll join in college.

It may look like a fairly simple equation: 1 + 2 = 3. However, each college will word their community essay prompt differently, so it’s important to look out for additional variables. One college may use the community essay as a way to glimpse your core values. Another may use the essay to understand how you would add to diversity on campus. Some may let you decide in which direction to take it—and there are many ways to go!

To get a better idea of how the prompts differ, let’s take a look at some real community essay prompts from the current admission cycle.

Sample 2023-2024 Community Essay Prompts

1) brown university.

“Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community. (200-250 words)”

A close reading of this prompt shows that Brown puts particular emphasis on place. They do this by using the words “home,” “College Hill,” and “where they came from.” Thus, Brown invites writers to think about community through the prism of place. They also emphasize the idea of personal growth or change, through the words “inspired or challenged you.” Therefore, Brown wishes to see how the place you grew up in has affected you. And, they want to know how you in turn will affect their college community.

“NYU was founded on the belief that a student’s identity should not dictate the ability for them to access higher education. That sense of opportunity for all students, of all backgrounds, remains a part of who we are today and a critical part of what makes us a world-class university. Our community embraces diversity, in all its forms, as a cornerstone of the NYU experience.

We would like to better understand how your experiences would help us to shape and grow our diverse community. Please respond in 250 words or less.”

Here, NYU places an emphasis on students’ “identity,” “backgrounds,” and “diversity,” rather than any physical place. (For some students, place may be tied up in those ideas.) Furthermore, while NYU doesn’t ask specifically how identity has changed the essay writer, they do ask about your “experience.” Take this to mean that you can still recount a specific moment, or several moments, that work to portray your particular background. You should also try to link your story with NYU’s values of inclusivity and opportunity.

3) University of Washington

“Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. (300 words max) Tip: Keep in mind that the UW strives to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, values and viewpoints.”

UW ’s community essay prompt may look the most approachable, for they help define the idea of community. You’ll notice that most of their examples (“families,” “cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood”…) place an emphasis on people. This may clue you in on their desire to see the relationships you’ve made. At the same time, UW uses the words “individual” and “richly diverse.” They, like NYU, wish to see how you fit in and stand out, in order to boost campus diversity.

Writing Your First Community Essay

Begin by picking which community essay you’ll write first. (For practical reasons, you’ll probably want to go with whichever one is due earliest.) Spend time doing a close reading of the prompt, as we’ve done above. Underline key words. Try to interpret exactly what the prompt is asking through these keywords.

Next, brainstorm. I recommend doing this on a blank piece of paper with a pencil. Across the top, make a row of headings. These might be the communities you’re a part of, or the components that make up your identity. Then, jot down descriptive words underneath in each column—whatever comes to you. These words may invoke people and experiences you had with them, feelings, moments of growth, lessons learned, values developed, etc. Now, narrow in on the idea that offers the richest material and that corresponds fully with the prompt.

Lastly, write! You’ll definitely want to describe real moments, in vivid detail. This will keep your essay original, and help you avoid cliché. However, you’ll need to summarize the experience and answer the prompt succinctly, so don’t stray too far into storytelling mode.

How To Adapt Your Community Essay

Once your first essay is complete, you’ll need to adapt it to the other colleges involving community essays on your list. Again, you’ll want to turn to the prompt for a close reading, and recognize what makes this prompt different from the last. For example, let’s say you’ve written your essay for UW about belonging to your swim team, and how the sports dynamics shaped you. Adapting that essay to Brown’s prompt could involve more of a focus on place. You may ask yourself, how was my swim team in Alaska different than the swim teams we competed against in other states?

Once you’ve adapted the content, you’ll also want to adapt the wording to mimic the prompt. For example, let’s say your UW essay states, “Thinking back to my years in the pool…” As you adapt this essay to Brown’s prompt, you may notice that Brown uses the word “reflection.” Therefore, you might change this sentence to “Reflecting back on my years in the pool…” While this change is minute, it cleverly signals to the reader that you’ve paid attention to the prompt, and are giving that school your full attention.

What to Avoid When Writing the Community Essay  

• Avoid cliché. Some students worry that their idea is cliché, or worse, that their background or identity is cliché. However, what makes an essay cliché is not the content, but the way the content is conveyed. This is where your voice and your descriptions become essential.
• Avoid giving too many examples. Stick to one community, and one or two anecdotes arising from that community that allow you to answer the prompt fully.
• Don’t exaggerate or twist facts. Sometimes students feel they must make themselves sound more “diverse” than they feel they are. Luckily, diversity is not a feeling. Likewise, diversity does not simply refer to one’s heritage. If the prompt is asking about your identity or background, you can show the originality of your experiences through your actions and your thinking.

Community Essay Examples and Analysis

Brown university community essay example.

I used to hate the NYC subway. I’ve taken it since I was six, going up and down Manhattan, to and from school. By high school, it was a daily nightmare. Spending so much time underground, underneath fluorescent lighting, squashed inside a rickety, rocking train car among strangers, some of whom wanted to talk about conspiracy theories, others who had bedbugs or B.O., or who manspread across two seats, or bickered—it wore me out. The challenge of going anywhere seemed absurd. I dreaded the claustrophobia and disgruntlement.

Yet the subway also inspired my understanding of community. I will never forget the morning I saw a man, several seats away, slide out of his seat and hit the floor. The thump shocked everyone to attention. What we noticed: he appeared drunk, possibly homeless. I was digesting this when a second man got up and, through a sort of awkward embrace, heaved the first man back into his seat. The rest of us had stuck to subway social codes: don’t step out of line. Yet this second man’s silent actions spoke loudly. They said, “I care.”

That day I realized I belong to a group of strangers. What holds us together is our transience, our vulnerabilities, and a willingness to assist. This community is not perfect but one in motion, a perpetual work-in-progress. Now I make it my aim to hold others up. I plan to contribute to the Brown community by helping fellow students and strangers in moments of precariousness.    

Brown University Community Essay Example Analysis

Here the student finds an original way to write about where they come from. The subway is not their home, yet it remains integral to ideas of belonging. The student shows how a community can be built between strangers, in their responsibility toward each other. The student succeeds at incorporating key words from the prompt (“challenge,” “inspired” “Brown community,” “contribute”) into their community essay.

UW Community Essay Example

I grew up in Hawaii, a world bound by water and rich in diversity. In school we learned that this sacred land was invaded, first by Captain Cook, then by missionaries, whalers, traders, plantation owners, and the U.S. government. My parents became part of this problematic takeover when they moved here in the 90s. The first community we knew was our church congregation. At the beginning of mass, we shook hands with our neighbors. We held hands again when we sang the Lord’s Prayer. I didn’t realize our church wasn’t “normal” until our diocese was informed that we had to stop dancing hula and singing Hawaiian hymns. The order came from the Pope himself.

Eventually, I lost faith in God and organized institutions. I thought the banning of hula—an ancient and pure form of expression—seemed medieval, ignorant, and unfair, given that the Hawaiian religion had already been stamped out. I felt a lack of community and a distrust for any place in which I might find one. As a postcolonial inhabitant, I could never belong to the Hawaiian culture, no matter how much I valued it. Then, I was shocked to learn that Queen Ka’ahumanu herself had eliminated the Kapu system, a strict code of conduct in which women were inferior to men. Next went the Hawaiian religion. Queen Ka’ahumanu burned all the temples before turning to Christianity, hoping this religion would offer better opportunities for her people.

Community Essay (Continued)

I’m not sure what to make of this history. Should I view Queen Ka’ahumanu as a feminist hero, or another failure in her islands’ tragedy? Nothing is black and white about her story, but she did what she thought was beneficial to her people, regardless of tradition. From her story, I’ve learned to accept complexity. I can disagree with institutionalized religion while still believing in my neighbors. I am a product of this place and their presence. At UW, I plan to add to campus diversity through my experience, knowing that diversity comes with contradictions and complications, all of which should be approached with an open and informed mind.

UW Community Essay Example Analysis

This student also manages to weave in words from the prompt (“family,” “community,” “world,” “product of it,” “add to the diversity,” etc.). Moreover, the student picks one of the examples of community mentioned in the prompt, (namely, a religious group,) and deepens their answer by addressing the complexity inherent in the community they’ve been involved in. While the student displays an inner turmoil about their identity and participation, they find a way to show how they’d contribute to an open-minded campus through their values and intellectual rigor.

What’s Next

For more on supplemental essays and essay writing guides, check out the following articles:

• How to Write the Why This Major Essay + Example
• How to Write the Overcoming Challenges Essay + Example
• How to Start a College Essay – 12 Techniques and Tips
• College Essay

Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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7 Ways In Which Youth Can Protect The Environment

Our planet is our home, the place that sustains us; but are we living in harmony with nature? It seems like we humans have embraced a path of self-destruction, destroying the very home that shelters us. From rising carbon emissions, to deforestation and land degradation, anthropogenic activities are having detrimental effects on our ecosystems and environmental biodiversity. Not many are aware that the United Nations General Assembly had declared the period of 2011-2020, as the “Decade for Biodiversity”. We are in the final period of this crucial decade, and despite several strategic plans and initiatives to mobilize people at different levels, we are miles behind in achieving the stipulated targets. The negative trends in biodiversity and ecosystems conservation, indicate that we need to do a lot more.  

As teenagers, sometimes we feel helpless and powerless, unable to take action, or do things that really matter to us, since governments and large corporations are the ones taking vital decisions. While major changes are only possible if countries and corporations alter their policies and actions, we as individuals also have the potential to make a difference, whether through small actions, or larger initiatives. Let’s not forget that consumers dictate markets, and they can significantly impact the way goods are produced and traded if they decide to change their consumption habits.

Here are some ways in which you can take control of your future, and protect our environment and ecosystems:

1. Start Your Own Initiative or Volunteer With Environmental Organizations

Whether it’s something small like starting a community clean-up group, or building a large social organization with significant reach and impact, taking initiatives for environmental conservation can go a long way. There are many successful youth-led environmental organizations and NGO’s across the globe, that are leading by example today. However, if you’re not up to it, you can also make an impact on the environment by getting involved with local non-profits and assisting the environmental community groups. There are several ways in which you can get involved, from running online awareness campaigns, to offering practical help like beach clean-ups, and fundraising events.

2. Reduce/Recycle Paper

What do you do with your old textbooks and novels that are not in use? Why not donate them to juniors, or kids in your neighborhood, or send them across to countries where children have little to no access to educational resources. While books aren’t doing any harm sitting on a bookshelf, why not save resources by putting them to reuse?

Similarly recycling unwanted paper will reduce the raw material demand for paper production,  thus conserving trees and forest ecosystems. From online assignments, to writing e-exams, thanks to the advent of technology, paper isn’t something that is necessary anymore. By making use of smart technologies that are available today, we can effortlessly shift away from paper-based activities, at all levels.

3. Recycle More Often

Recycling is a simple, yet effective way of conserving resources and reducing your individual carbon footprint. Rather than throwing everything in the trash, separate your plastic, paper, and metal waste, and deposit it in a recycling bin. Recycling helps reduce landfill pollution, raw materials and fossil fuel consumption, and generates a circular economy.

4. Save Resources

Did you know that only 0.03% of the 70% of water available to us is freshwater? That’s why, saving water is so important for freshwater ecosystems. By doing simple things like taking shorter showers, avoiding small clothes washes, and turning your taps off while brushing, you can save gallons of water! Similarly, it’s important to be mindful of your electricity consumption, and make adaptations so that you can reduce the demand for energy production and thereby preserve fossil fuel resources. While public and private entities plan the transition to sustainable alternatives, by doing our bit at homes and offices, we can reduce fossil fuel dependency.

5. Buy Sustainable Products

Plastic is one of the most significant contributors to soil and marine pollution, endangering both the land and marine life. Plastic isn’t biodegradable, and is often consumed by animals who mistake it as food. When buying a product, be aware of its environmental impact and disposal after use. Companies are now being questioned on their ecological footprint, and changing consumer habits are compelling them to  become more sustainable. There are several sustainable brands available today, and it is easier to find out about the products origin, materials and recyclability. When you’re stocking up on school or office supplies like folders and pens, or buying toys and home accessories, try to look for more eco-friendly alternatives that can replace plastic. For example, some of us use so much plastic from buying bottled water every day, when buying your own reusable water bottle is not only cheaper, but also much better for the environment.

Also, buying local products and produce is a great way to minimize carbon footprint, as goods don’t have to travel longer distances and consume more fuel for transportation. Do some research and find out about the local eco-stores and farms in your area. Supporting small businesses is also great for the local economy because you’re sustaining the economic activity and job creation in your area.

6. Decrease Meat & Dairy Consumption

Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases that contributes to global warming. With increasing demand for meat, the number of live-stock farms has gone up significantly over the last few decades. As livestock release large amounts of methane into the atmosphere, excessive meat and dairy consumption has detrimental effects on our climate. Additionally, unsustainable dairy and cattle farming leads to the destruction of ecologically important areas such as wetlands and forests. Deforestation required to house animals like cows and chickens are damaging habitats and natural ecosystems, where hundreds of species depend on each other for survival. Thus, the only way we can prevent more damage is by being responsible, and eating less meat and dairy products.

7. Only Buy What You Need

Lastly, think about your purchasing habits. Do you buy too many products? Can you do without some of the things that you often buy? Are you being a responsible consumer? Simply buying more because of tempting offers or discounts will actually cost us and the environment more. Whether its groceries, clothes, accessories or home products, by purchasing only what you need, you reduce the amount of waste generated, and thus pollution. As natural resources are limited, our excessive consumption can be counter-productive, and undermine our planet's biodiversity.

View the discussion thread.

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Essay on Environment: Examples & Tips

• Updated on  
• May 30, 2022

In the 21st century, the Environmental crisis is one of the biggest issues. The world has been potentially impacted by the resulting hindrance in the environmental balance, due to the rising in industrialization and urbanization. This led to several natural calamities which creates an everlasting severe impact on the environment for years. To familiarize students with the importance environment, the subject ‘Environmental Studies’ is part of the curriculum in primary, secondary as well as higher school education. To test the knowledge of the students related to Environment, a question related to the topic in the form of essay or article writing is included in the exam. This blog aims to focus on providing details to students on the way, they can draft a well-written essay on Environment.

This Blog Includes:

Overview on environment, tips on writing an effective essay, format (150 words), sample essay on environment, environment essay (100 words), essay on environment (200-250 words), environment essay (300 words), world environment day.

To begin the essay on Environment, students must know what it is all about. Biotic (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and abiotic (non-living physical factors) components in our surroundings fall under the terminology of the environment. Everything that surrounds us is a part of the environment and facilitates our existence on the planet.

Before writing an effective essay on Environment, another thing students need to ensure is to get familiarised with the structure of essay writing. The major tips which students need to keep in mind, while drafting the essay are:

• Research on the given topic thoroughly : The students must research the topic given in the essay, for example: while drafting an essay on the environment, students must mention the recent events, so to provide the reader with a view into their understanding of this concept.
• Jot down the important points: When the students research the topic, students must note down the points which need to be included in the essay.
• Quote down the important examples: Students must quote the important examples in the introductory paragraphs and the subsequent paragraphs as well.
• Revise the Essay: The student after finishing writing students must revise the content to locate any grammatical errors as well as other mistakes.

Essay on Environment: Format & Samples

Now that you are aware of the key elements of drafting an essay on Environment, take a look at the format of essay writing first:

Introduction

The student must begin the essay by, detailing an overview of the topic in a very simple way in around 30-40 words. In the introduction of the essay on Environment, the student can make it interesting by recent instances or adding questions.

Body of Content

The content after the introduction can be explained in around 80 words, on a given topic in detail. This part must contain maximum detail in this part of the Essay. For the Environment essay, students can describe ways the environment is hampered and different ways to prevent and protect it.

In the essay on Environment, students can focus on summing the essay in 30-40 words, by writing its aim, types, and purposes briefly. This section must swaddle up all the details which are explained in the body of the content.

Below is a sample of an Essay on Environment to give you an idea of the way to write one:

The natural surroundings that enable life to thrive, nurture, and destroy on our planet called earth are referred to as an environment. The natural environment is vital to the survival of life on Earth, allowing humans, animals, and other living things to thrive and evolve naturally. However, our ecosystem is being harmed as a result of certain wicked and selfish human actions. It is the most essential issue, and everyone should understand how to safeguard our environment and maintain the natural balance on this planet for life to continue to exist.

Nature provides an environment that nourishes life on the planet. The environment encompasses everything humans need to live, including water, air, sunshine, land, plants, animals, forests, and other natural resources. Our surroundings play a critical role in enabling the existence of healthy life on the planet. However, due to man-made technical advancements in the current period, our environment is deteriorating day by day. As a result, environmental contamination has risen to the top of our priority list.

Environmental pollution has a detrimental impact on our everyday lives in a variety of ways, including socially, physically, economically, emotionally, and cognitively. Contamination of the environment causes a variety of ailments that can last a person’s entire life. It is not a problem of a neighborhood or a city; it is a global issue that cannot be handled by a single person’s efforts. It has the potential to end life in a day if it is not appropriately handled. Every ordinary citizen should participate in the government’s environmental protection effort.

Between June 5 and June 16, World Environment Day is commemorated to raise awareness about the environment and to educate people about its importance. On this day, awareness initiatives are held in a variety of locations.

The environment is made up of plants, animals, birds, reptiles, insects, water bodies, fish, humans, trees, microbes, and many other things. Furthermore, they all contribute to the ecosystem.

The physical, social, and cultural environments are the three categories of environments. Besides, various scientists have defined different types and numbers of environments.

1. Do not leave rubbish in public areas. 2. Minimize the use of plastic 3. Items should be reduced, reused, and recycled. 4. Prevent water and soil contamination

Hope the blog has given you an idea of how to write an essay on the Environment. If you are planning to study abroad and want help in writing your essays, then let Leverage Edu be your helping hand. Our experts will assist you in writing an excellent SOP for your study abroad consultant application. 

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

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Essay on Ways to Save The Environment

Students are often asked to write an essay on Ways to Save The Environment in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Ways to Save The Environment

Understanding environment.

Our environment is our home. It’s where we live, breathe, eat, and play. It’s vital to protect it for our health and generations to come.

Reducing Waste

One way to save the environment is by reducing waste. We can do this by recycling, composting, and reusing items instead of throwing them away.

Conserving Water

Water is a precious resource. We can conserve water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using rainwater for plants.

Planting Trees

Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a harmful greenhouse gas. Planting trees helps combat climate change and provides habitats for wildlife.

Using Public Transport

250 words essay on ways to save the environment, introduction.

The environment is a shared resource, and its preservation is a collective responsibility. The escalating environmental degradation, characterized by climate change, deforestation, and pollution, necessitates immediate action. This essay explores practical ways to save the environment.

Embracing Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power is a significant step towards environmental preservation. These sources are sustainable and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which are the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling

The 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) are fundamental in waste management. By reducing consumption, reusing products, and recycling materials, we can significantly decrease waste that ends up in landfills, thus reducing soil and water pollution.

Encouraging Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture practices like organic farming, agroforestry, and permaculture protect the environment by minimizing chemical use and promoting biodiversity. These practices also enhance soil fertility and food security.

Promoting Green Transportation

Green transportation involves using fuel-efficient vehicles, carpooling, cycling, or walking. These methods reduce carbon emissions and air pollution, contributing to a cleaner environment.

500 Words Essay on Ways to Save The Environment

The environment is the lifeblood of our planet, providing the resources we need to survive and thrive. However, human activities have put the environment under severe stress. It is our responsibility to mitigate these effects and strive for a sustainable future. This essay explores various ways to save the environment, focusing on practical actions that can be taken at individual, community, and global levels.

Individual Actions

As individuals, our daily choices significantly impact the environment. Firstly, we can reduce, reuse, and recycle. By minimizing waste production and promoting recycling, we can decrease the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans.

Lastly, we can conserve energy and water at home. Simple actions like turning off lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and fixing leaks can save significant amounts of resources.

Community Initiatives

At the community level, we can participate in or initiate environmental projects. Organizing local clean-ups, tree planting events, and educational workshops can raise environmental awareness and foster a sense of responsibility among community members.

Policy Influences

Policy plays a crucial role in environmental protection. Advocating for and supporting policies that promote renewable energy, regulate pollution, and protect natural habitats can lead to substantial environmental improvements.

Moreover, international cooperation is vital in addressing global environmental issues like climate change. By supporting international agreements and initiatives, we can contribute to global efforts to save the environment.

Technological Innovations

Innovation and technology can also play a significant role in environmental conservation. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, advancements in areas like carbon capture and storage, and bioengineering could potentially reverse some of the damage already done to the environment.

Saving the environment requires a multi-faceted approach that involves individual actions, community initiatives, policy influences, and technological innovations. By taking responsibility for our actions and making conscious choices, we can contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s not just about preserving the environment for future generations, but also about ensuring the health and well-being of our own.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

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7 simple ways to make environmental change in your community

Want to make change happen in your community here's how..

You’re probably aware that the environment could be in better shape. (If this is news to you, might we suggest unsubscribing from Everything’s Peachy Monthly and peering through your soot-covered windows to the barren fields on the horizon. That brittle skeleton used to be a cow!) Luckily for the environment, though, you’re a strapping young idealist who’s ready to take to the streets, rock the vote, and effect some serious policy change .

But now what? As you’re probably realizing, bringing about environmental-policy change is easier said than done. This is the point where we come in. So sit back, take a deep breath, hack out those pesky exhaust fumes, and meditate on your community’s needs. Here are some ideas for getting started.

Shared goals, shared ownership

First things first: It’s not about you. Or rather, it is, but it’s also about everyone else in your community — especially those most affected by the environmental inequities at play. Bringing people together is the first step toward building lasting social, economic, and political power. That’s why community organizing is called what it is. If it was all about waxing poetic about your gripes with specific policy proposals from the comfort of your bedroom, it’d be called Facebook. Empowering your community means addressing its shared needs. Don’t be afraid to take a step back for the sake of the more democratically pressing issues. In decision-making, transparency is key.

Meet the people where they are

A central tenet of effective organizing is showing up where your community members are. Is online communication particularly pervasive in your community? Get thee to a hashtag. Want feedback from karaoke enthusiasts? You know where to find them.

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It’s also worth asking yourself if people are ready to be organized. Is dissatisfaction being expressed? Where, and through which channels? You might have a whole swath of angry, budding environmental activists who don’t have an outlet for their anger. They might not even consider themselves to be environmentalists. Meet them where they are and offer alternatives and networks and solidarity. Simply knowing that like-minded folks exist in the community is a form of empowerment.

Organizing for solutions means being interested in the right problems

This means striving to understand (and target!) root causes. Effective organizing is that which seeks to alter whole power structures, not just address symptoms. Cap-and-trade sounds great until the coal plant in your neighborhood buys enough emission permits to continue burning like nothing happened. Tackling the root problems at play isn’t easy — but that’s why you’re organizing your community in the first place! Systemic change requires passionate and coherent coalitions. Which brings us to our next point:

Remember: You’re not an advocate. You’re an organizer.

There’s a difference between community organizing and policy advocacy, between grassroots and grasstops. If building power really is one of your goals, that means you should be interested in leadership development and lasting change — not just Band-Aids for the current generation. And don’t be afraid to get a little intersectional in your work. Community organizing for environmental policy change also means seeing your movement as part of a larger thrust for social change — and your efforts as part and parcel to strengthening that thrust.

Promote leaders who are most directly affected by the environmental issues at play

Plain and simple: The most knowledgeable and passionate organizing advocates are those who are tied to the places and policies at hand. Without their voices, the movement has no heart.

This principle is an important one — and it’s not just about who you’re organizing. It’s about the nitty gritty of who’s sitting on recruitment committees and steering committees, the make-up of communications teams, and the voices who are guiding organizational strategy. Admittedly, it sounds a little boring. (But a lot of exciting things do! Just ask us about transferable development rights!) The point is that cultivating leaders most directly affected by the issues at hand — those breathing the polluted air, fishing the dirtied rivers, lacking access to green spaces and fresh food — not only lends your organizing legitimacy, it helps ensure it’ll serve the community it’s supposed to.

Tell a good story

Community planning and policy change are rooted in narrative. Part of articulating your community’s needs to policymakers is crafting a compelling reason for them to listen to your community in the first place. This also means knowing the political landscape you’re trying to alter. Are the people in positions of power more likely to respond to direct action or data? Lawsuits or oral histories? Answering these questions can help you figure out the type of story that needs to be told.

Share your successes!

Effective organizing strategies should be shouted from the rooftops! (Our neighbors have filed several civil complaints.) Let your community know what change its efforts have brought about! This point is about transparency, but it’s also about building one another up.

There’s probably a corollary here that has to do with setting realistic goals. Your community can only revel in its newfound power if it comes into it in the first place. Draw the boxes, do the work to check ’em, and celebrate! Onward!

Another thing behind great organizers? Great data. Check out innovative environmental-justice research in action:

The New School , a comprehensive university in New York City, is at the forefront of addressing global environmental issues and environmental justice thanks to its  Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management graduate degree program . Turn your passion for environmental change and sustainability into a career with impact.

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Meet the woman who’s making Google more sustainable

South korea’s energy trap: government-funded dead end fossil fuel investments, california’s concerning embrace of a new forest biomass industry, climate vulnerability index illuminates inequities, shining light on energy inequity in puerto rico, interactive: who leases state trust lands on reservations, interactive: state trust lands on reservations, how big oil’s big money influences climate research, an unlikely line of defense during heat waves: food banks, modal gallery.

Environmental Protection Essay

The environmental protection essay is a great way to assist the little ones in understanding how to protect the environment. Environmental protection has emerged as one of the major challenges in the world for centuries and has always been important to humans. As of late, it has seen a dramatic change in environmental policy, primarily through the use of the law. One way that law is used to protect the environment is by enacting government regulations on pollution and preventing environmental degradation.

Environmental protection is an integral part of today’s society, but many people lack even basic knowledge on what they can do to help protect our environment. The destruction of the environment and the depletion of natural resources are significant issues that are ever-present. In this essay, there will be a list of ideas for participating in the fight against these problems. This essay on environmental protection describes the meaning and importance of environmental protection and also teaches the right method to preserve the environment.

How to Protect the Environment Essay

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment against various human activities that degrade, destroy, or otherwise reduce its quality for future generations. Environmental protection has become a widespread issue in recent decades as human pressures on the environment have increased exponentially.

There are many ways to protect the environment. One way to protect the environment is by recycling – a way to reduce the carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. It also decreases the amount of waste that goes into landfills, which causes less pollution to water bodies. Another way is to use eco-friendly products in your life. This can contribute to a healthier environment by reducing the number of harmful chemicals and toxins in the air, ground, and water.

To protect the environment, we should be conscious of what we consume and how we consume it. Many factors affect the quality of our air, water, and land, but it is best to start small by always considering its impact on the environment.

Afforestation and tree plantation help protect our environment by reducing global warming, soil erosion, etc. We can reduce our carbon footprint through carpooling instead of driving, which is cheaper and reduces our energy usage and emissions.

For more essays similar to the environmental protection essay, visit BYJU’S website. You can also find more exciting kids’ learning resources, such as poems, stories, worksheets, etc., on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is environmental protection.

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment by maintaining the quality of air, water, land or ecosystem. The effects that humans have on their environment create issues for the natural environment. This can include air pollution, water pollution, and degradation of land. Governments and people are involved with environmental protection through policies and regulations.

How to protect the environment?

Environmental protection has seen a dramatic change, especially through environmental laws. These laws call for reducing pollution and environmental degradation.

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How to Write an Essay on the Environment

• green living

The environment where we live affects how we function and socialize as human beings. Over the years, there has been a growing focus on climate change and how shifts in weather events and temperatures are affecting living organisms. 

Of course, although climate change is one of the threatening and pervasive things, currently, there are many other areas one can write about including biodiversity and pollution. Choosing what to write about is just one aspect of creating a good essay on the environment. 

When tasked with writing an assignment on the environment, there are some specific factors to consider. Of course, different instructors issue different guidelines for academic writing, including the format and citation style to use. Make sure to adhere to these and stick to the question as outlined in the assignment prompt. Here are additional tips for effective essay writing.

Start by Choosing a Good Topic

The most important step in effective academic writing is selecting an appropriate topic. There are many areas of the environment where you can base your writing. However, you have to make sure that your preferred topic is in line with your assignment question, as set out in the prompt. Of course, there are times when instructors provide specific topics for their students, eliminating the need for topic selection. 

In other instances, students are accorded the freedom to create their own topics. With such freedom, comes the responsibility of making sure that your topic is relevant for your project and current. Also, you have to make sure that your area of writing is precise enough to be covered within the scope of your essay. Those who are unable to find good topics can seek  custom writing  from professionals online. 

Your essay on the environment can be in any of the following areas:• Climate change or global warming and its impacts;• Biodiversity;• Environmental pollution and how it affects living organisms. 

Since the environment is a very broad topic area, you will need to conduct some research to make sure that you pick a relevant and current topic. Also, make sure to  narrow down your topic . 

Brainstorm for Ideas and Create a Plan

Once you have a topic for your essay, the next step is brainstorming. This is the process of thinking about the topic and noting down everything you know. The notes created here can form part of your outline.

When it comes to outlining, having a good plan will save you time much later in the course of your research and writing. This stage may require some preliminary research as well as the creation of a working thesis statement. 

Create an Interesting Thesis Statement

Now that you have a topic and an outline, it is time to create a working thesis. Please note that your statement may change several in the course of your research and writing. As you proceed with your work, you may encounter different ideas and change your perspective on important issues. In essence, your thesis should be clear, arguable, interesting, and simple. It should demonstrate the position you intend to take with your argumentation. 

Conduct Research and Document Sources

It is impossible to write a good essay on the environment if you don’t gather enough data and evidence. Quality academic papers present coherent arguments where ideas and points are supported using credible evidence. Conduct research on books, electronic journals, reputable websites, and primary sources. Just make sure to document the sources of your information to help with citations and references. Most importantly,  take keen notes that will make organizing  your essay easier. 

Start Writing as Soon as Possible

Do not spend so much time with preparations that you forget to make time for the actual writing. You may have heard that freewriting is the easiest way to overcome writer’s block. However, there is an even better way — writing from an outline and researching the various sections of your paper. Just make sure to give each main idea its own paragraph, supported using evidence and examples from credible sources. 

As you write your paper, grammar and syntax should not be your main priority. At this stage, just work on the drafting of your ideas and points. You can finish by editing your work for grammatical, content, and formatting consistency. 

Please note that the tips provided in this article are meant to guide you through the process of academic essay writing. You still have to make sure that your writing adheres to your assignment instructions. Most importantly, you need to ensure that you proofread and edit your work.

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Achieving Sustainable Milk Farming Practices

1. Spread the word

Encourage your friends, family and co-workers to reduce their carbon pollution. Join a global movement like  Count Us In, which aims to inspire 1 billion people to take practical steps and challenge their leaders to act more boldly on climate. Organizers of the platform say that if 1 billion people took action, they could reduce as much as 20 per cent of global carbon emissions. Or you could sign up to the UN’s  #ActNow campaign on climate change and sustainability and add your voice to this critical global debate.

2. Keep up the political pressure

Lobby local politicians and businesses to support efforts to cut emissions and reduce carbon pollution.  #ActNow Speak Up  has sections on political pressure and corporate action - and Count Us In also has  some handy tips  for how to do this. Pick an environmental issue you care about, decide on a specific request for change and then try to arrange a meeting with your local representative. It might seem intimidating but your voice deserves to be heard. If humanity is to succeed in tackling the climate emergency, politicians must be part of the solution. It’s up to all of us to keep up with the pressure. 

3. Transform your transport

Transport accounts for around a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions and across the world, many governments are implementing policies to decarbonize travel. You can get a head start: leave your car at home and walk or cycle whenever possible. If the distances are too great, choose public transport, preferably electric options. If you must drive, offer to carpool with others so that fewer cars are on the road. Get ahead of the curve and buy an electric car. Reduce the number of long-haul flights you take. 

4. Rein in your power use

If you can, switch to a zero-carbon or renewable energy provider. Install solar panels on your roof. Be more efficient: turn your heating down a degree or two, if possible. Switch off appliances and lights when you are not using them and better yet buy the most efficient products in the first place (hint: this will save you money!). Insulate your loft or roof: you’ll be warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save some money too. 

5. Tweak your diet

Eat more plant-based meals – your body and the planet will thank you. Today, around 60 per cent of the world’s agricultural land is used for livestock grazing and people in many countries are consuming more animal-sourced food than is healthy. Plant-rich diets can help reduce chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer.

The climate emergency demands action from all of us. We need to get to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and everyone has a role to play.

6. Shop local and buy sustainable

To reduce your food’s carbon footprint, buy local and seasonal foods. You’ll be helping small businesses and farms in your area and reducing fossil fuel emissions associated with transport and cold chain storage. Sustainable agriculture uses up to 56 per cent less energy, creates 64 per cent fewer emissions and allows for greater levels of biodiversity than conventional farming. Go one step further and try growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs. You can plant them in a garden, on a balcony or even on a window sill. Set up a community garden in your neighbourhood to get others involved. 

7. Don’t waste food

One-third of all food produced is either lost or wasted. According to UNEP’s  Food Waste Index Report 2021 , people globally waste 1 billion tonnes of food each year, which accounts for around 8-10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Avoid waste by only buying what you need. Take advantage of every edible part of the foods you purchase. Measure portion sizes of rice and other staples before cooking them, store food correctly (use your freezer if you have one), be creative with leftovers, share extras with your friends and neighbours and contribute to a local food-sharing scheme. Make compost out of inedible remnants and use it to fertilize your garden. Composting is one of the best options for managing organic waste while also reducing environmental impacts.

8. Dress (climate) smart

The fashion industry accounts for 8-10 per cent of global carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined – and ‘fast fashion’ has created a throwaway culture that sees clothes quickly end up in landfills. But we can change this. Buy fewer new clothes and wear them longer. Seek out sustainable labels and use rental services for special occasions rather than buying new items that will only be worn once. Recycle pre-loved clothes and repair when necessary.

9. Plant trees  

Every year approximately 12 million hectares of forest are destroyed and this deforestation, together with agriculture and other land use changes, is responsible for roughly 25 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. We can all play a part in reversing this trend by planting trees, either individually or as part of a collective. For example, the Plant-for-the-Planet initiative allows people to sponsor tree-planting around the world.

Check out this UNEP guide to see what else you can do as part of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration , a global drive to halt the degradation of land and oceans, protect biodiversity, and rebuild ecosystems. 

10. Focus on planet-friendly investments

Individuals can also spur change through their savings and investments by choosing financial institutions that do not invest in carbon-polluting industries. #ActNow Speak Up  has a section on money and so does  Count Us In . This sends a clear signal to the market and already many financial institutions are offering more ethical investments, allowing you to use your money to support causes you believe in and avoid those you don’t. You can ask your financial institution about their responsible banking policies and find out how they rank in independent research. 

UNEP is at the front in support of the Paris Agreement goal of keeping the global temperature rise well below 2°C, and aiming - to be safe - for 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. To do this, UNEP has developed a Six-Sector Solution . The Six Sector Solution is a roadmap to reducing emissions across sectors in line with the Paris Agreement commitments and in pursuit of climate stability. The six sectors identified are Energy; Industry; Agriculture & Food; Forests & Land Use; Transport; and Buildings & Cities.

• Clean fuels
• Energy Efficiency
• Sustainable Development

Further Resources

• 7 climate action highlights to remember before COP26
• Climate Action Note - data you need to know
• Emissions Gap Report 2021
• Food Waste Index 2021
• Act Now: the UN campaign for individual action
• Count Us In
• Food Loss and Waste Website

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Essay on Save Environment

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“Save Environment” is a mantra that has developed to represents several acts aimed at preserving the sanctity of our environment. Our environment suffers from several risk factors.

Some of them stem from human interference while others are natural occurrences. Whether caused by humans or not, what is clear is that we must take action. Doing nothing might lead to severe consequences for our environment. These conscious acts are generally aimed at reducing greenhouse emissions thereby creating a safer environment.

Audience: The below given essays are exclusively written for school students (Class 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 Standard). Furthermore, those students preparing for competitive exams like IAS, IPS and UPSC can also increase their knowledge by studying these essays.

Introduction:

The air we breathe, the soil we live on, the trees which give us oxygen along with other flora and fauna on the earth all constitute the environment. It would have been impossible to survive on the earth had we not had such a supportive environment. However, with the surge in the urbanisation over the last few years we have seen a steady decline in the quality of the environment around us.

“Save environment” should be the priority of each and every person today. Environment constitutes the entire surroundings comprising water, air, sunlight, plants, animals, etc., that offer viable conditions for development and growth.

Reasons to Save Environment:

It is important to save environment as life of living beings is completely dependent on it. Humans utilize the water for drinking, air for breathing and also use other natural resources for their regular everyday jobs. In fact, the food we consume like milk, eggs, and vegetables, etc., are also derived from animals and plants, which is provided to us by the environment around us.

How to Save Environment:

Environment can be saved by planting more trees, recycling, reusing, reducing pollution, creating awareness through environmental programs, etc.

Conclusion:

If we want to save the environment then, we should stop the exploitation of natural resources. Using these resources cautiously is very important to save the environment.

In the so-called modern era, the biggest issue for the human race is to save environment and make earth a cleaner and greener planet. The human race has done a lot of damages to this world. Our surroundings have suffered the curse of pollution, exploitation of resources, and many other things. Now, it is our duty to take some important measures and save environment for future generations.

Industrialization has been the biggest source of pollution. To compensate for the fuel needs, we over exhausted most of the non-renewable resources, like coals, minerals, and oils. In order to save environment, we should switch to eco-friendly energy sources, such as solar power, hydropower, wind energy, etc.

Lots of public places use the ‘save environment’ posters and stickers to create awareness among the general public. We can also watch this burning issue being discussed on news channels. At schools, students are given the topic of ‘save environment’ for an essay writing or drawing purposes. This helps them understand global warming and its dangerous consequences.

It is hard to believe but we don’t always have to do something huge to save environment. Every person, even a child can contribute to the world’s ‘save environment’ goal. We can together do so by reducing the plastic usage, saving electricity, using solar power, and planting more trees in our surroundings. Doing this will not only save environment but also improve the quality of life for both animal and plant species and save them from going extinct.

The earth is called the ‘blue planet’ and it is the only one which sustains life but given the rate of anthropogenic exploitation, how long can we get on with our selfish attitude towards the environment?

The kind of damage that has been inflicted is palpable and the need has been felt to save environment sooner rather than later. The effect of global warming, the increase of greenhouses gases, the depletion of the ozone layer and the alarming levels of pollution are all an indicator of an impending catastrophe. Until and unless we know how to save environment and take remedial measure, our future is in grave hands.

What are the remedial measures to save environment?

Too many people complain that the damage is beyond the repair point, however, it is better to put an effort rather the sit and whine. The environment is capable of healing and all we need is to give it a push in the right direction in order to save environment.

1. Sustainable Living:

It is important to understand and imbibe the concept of sustainable living. It is the art of living wherein you use the current resources keeping in mind the needs of the future generation. We have to be mindful of how what and why we are consuming especially when it comes to the natural and non-renewable resources.

2. Tree Plantation to Save Environment:

First of all, we need to come with great afforestation and reforestation schemes to save environment. It is the depletion of the green cover that has done the highest damage.

3. Pollution Mitigation:

The next thing one needs to do immediately to save environment is to cut down the pollution level. From the controversial ‘odd-even’ schemes in New Delhi to the policy of banning firecrackers or bike and carpooling, every step counts.

The Conclusion:

So if you want to save environment, you need to be prepared to put in the best of efforts. It is the cumulative effort over a collective period of time which can help the environment heal again.

“Save Environment” is a mantra that has developed to represents several acts aimed at preserving the sanctity of our environment. Our environment suffers from several risk factors. Some of them stem from human interference while others are natural occurrences.

Whether caused by humans or not, what is clear is that we must take action. Doing nothing might lead to severe consequences for our environment. These conscious acts are generally aimed at reducing greenhouse emissions thereby creating a safer environment.

Acts that Save the Environment:

We already know that we must take action to save environment. It is also important to point out the types of action we must incorporate into our daily lives to keep our environment safe.

The following are some of the steps that can lead to a better and safe environment:

1. Control electricity consumption – Most of the powers we consume are not from renewable energy sources. While the world would be better served by renewable energy sources, it would be prudent to control electricity consumption in the meantime. To do this, we must curb wastage. Little acts like turning off the bulb would make a big difference in the long run.

2. Consume less water – As the world population grows, water scarcity is becoming a profound problem. While scientific advances to solve the world water problem, more immediate action is needed for a safe environment. Thus, we must inculcate the habit of consuming less water through water conservation practices.

3. Paper reduction – The paper we use comes from trees. These trees are cut down from their natural habitat leaving our environment exposed to the risk of global warming. To save our environment, we should embrace digital tools at our disposal and use less of paper. By doing so, we would reduce the demand for paper which invariably leads to less tree cutting.

4. Reuse – Most of the materials we use in our daily lives are not actual waste. They can be recycled and subsequently used for something else. Thus, when we use things such as plastic, elastic, metal and more, we should not simply throw those things away. With the right machinery and foresight, they can be turned to materials that translate into a safe environment.

To conclude, living in a safe environment goes beyond the actions mentioned above. The extent of our involvement cannot be exhausted to one single article. However, if we stay conscious of our environment and do not relent in taking steps that are pro-environment we would make our world a better place.

Environment is the surrounding in which we live in. It is the natural habitat around us, which is essential for life to thrive in. It constitutes of air, water, soil, animals and human beings.

We humans have a blind spot concerning the degree of dependence we have on our surroundings. Mindlessly, we build and industrialize our habitat in the name of advancement only to later realize that we have been destroying our surroundings all along. We still steadily go on with our reckless way of life without the slightest awareness of what we are doing to ourselves by destroying Mother Nature. It is very important to understand and save our environment.

Reasons for Environment Degradation:

1. Urbanization:

The hash one reason for environment degradation is Urbanization. We cut down trees, lay roads and build buildings for our sophistication, without even thinking about the implications caused by our actions. In the process we completely destroy our natural surroundings and seal ourselves inside un-natural habitats called cities.

2. Consumerism:

With the birth of Industrial revolution, manufacturing processes have speeded up to a fraction of the time taken by its handmade counterparts. This has led to mass production which in turn has led to mass consumerism, and before we knew it, we became a consumer-oriented society. Thus came the practice of ‘Use and Throw’ products, which causes rapid depletion of existing resources.

3. Pollution:

Today, almost every natural resource is polluted. Industries pollute our air with the harmful gases they exhale. Automobiles have greatly contributed to air pollution by polluting it with harmful smoke they let out. Burning of plastics has resulted in the depletion of Ozone layer. Industries pollute our rivers and other water bodies by draining chemicals and oils into them. Commonly used bath soaps and detergents are highly insoluble in water and pollute drainage water. Our soils are polluted by excessive use of chemical fertilizers.

Saving our environment and thereby ourselves is in the hands of each and every one of us. Small changes made to our everyday lifestyle are all we need to do to save environment.

‘Recycling’ our material things is one big step towards saving environment. Metal scraps from old buildings can be recycled and used for producing new metal items. Plastic recycling is another big solution. Paper and cardboard items can also be recycled into new products.

Use of materials like paper and wood can be ‘Reduced’ wherever possible. Fossil fuels are depleting natural resources which cannot be renewed. Use of petroleum can be reduced by opting carpooling and cycling. Coal is another non-renewable resource used extensively in electricity production. Energy efficient light bulbs and solar cars reduce the use of such fuels.

‘Reuse’ of products is another solution to save environment. Plastic covers can be reused to minimize their production. Plastic containers can be reused and repurposed into potting for plants. Tires can be repurposed into building blocks. Every product has the capacity to be repurposed if we allow ourselves to see it with an open eye.

‘Planting’ of more trees is a step towards a greener environment. Going back to traditional agricultural practices will save our environment.

By saving our environment we are only saving ourselves. This truth needs to sink deep into our hearts, which will cause our inner man to act responsibly to save our environment.

The environment is the most valuable component of life because it enables the existence of living and non-living things. The environment is a vast source of resources like air, shelter, food and water. Living things are dependent on the environment for the continuation of life. The environment should be sacred and respected by all living things because of it is important for survival. However, the environment is not given the respect it deserves because there are several incidences on environmental pollution. The pollution of environment contaminates all the resources required to sustain the life of living things and therefore the lives are affected negatively. The effects of environmental pollution have been serious and harmful. The environment needs to be saved from pollution so that the lives of living things can be saved from full destruction. Saving the environment begins by identifying the pollutants and trying to mitigate them. The causes of these pollutions need to be identified and then prevented as the damage that is already done is being repaired in order to restore the environment.

Importance of Saving the Environment:

The environment is the main source of life for living things on the earth’s surface. The trends of environmental pollution have compromised the lives of animate objects on earth. The threat to life has forced living things to survive. Survival is not possible for all organisms and therefore deaths have been experienced, which has to be prevented.

Saving the environment will enable the nature to thrive again and reduce the survival needed. The environment will be back to its rich resourceful nature.

Ways of Saving the Environment?

Formulating strategies for unifying people to initiate the saving of the environment. Saving the environment is a collective responsibility that requires cooperation and collaboration from organizations, societies, governments and individuals so that an effort is realized. Global call should be made so that the project to save environment is initiated as a whole.

Proper handling of waste materials should be done so that pollutants do not end up in the environment. The policy of recycling and reusing the recyclable and reusable wastes is a good way to save environment. Another strategy is effective planning of the cities according to the resources that are available. Cities that are unplanned end up in environmental crisis because the population might rise beyond what the environment can support. Also, crowding causes environmental pollution because there will be clearing of natural trees in order to build houses for people to live in.

Supporting of environmental programs by participating in activities aimed at saving the environment is another way to save environment. Change should be embraced with regard to environmental conservation e.g., the ban of plastic bags and bottles should be respected. In agriculture, it is recommended that organic fertilizers have to be used in order to minimize the amount of chemical washouts that end up in water bodies.

Planting of trees should be encouraged so that air pollution effects can be reduced because trees will replenish the air quality in the atmosphere and save environment.

Challenges in Saving the Environment:

The environment has been greatly damaged and it requires a lot of effort to restore it. Limited resources for example finances poses a challenge to the project to save the environment.

Climate change affects the restoration processes like planting trees because the trees might not be favoured by the climate to grow back as expected.

Political instabilities in countries cause stagnation in the process of saving the environment because they always lag behind.

The environment needs to be saved because it is the source of life and living things are dependent on it.

Human beings cannot live all alone on the earth. They need a host of other things to support their survival. For instance, the trees provide us with oxygen and rid the air of harmful carbon-dioxide. Similarly, soil provides us with nutrients through various plants which we consume in everyday life and provides us with a surface to live on.

The entire flora and fauna or rather the entire ecosystem are what constitutes the environment for us. It is our privilege to have been provided such a beautiful environment by nature. However, have been using it judiciously? Of course, not! We have largely ignored the individual requirements of the environment for our own benefits and thus have affected the natural balance of nature. This has in turn affected as well. So, in order to sustain mutual harmony and survival for all, we need to save the environment as well.

At the very start, we need to realise that saving the environment is for our own good. We need it more than other plants and animals around us. The environment is integral to our very survival on this planet. Losing it shall lead to our extinction as well. Although necessary, steps required to save the environment can be quite challenging given the current nature of our lifestyles and the modernisation which has taken place. However, some small yet fruitful steps can surely be the guiding force towards our need to save the environment for our own benefit.

For instance, we can put an end to contamination and toxicants in air, water, soil and structures or at least try to minimise it. Moreover, conservation of biodiversity and insurance of jeopardized species should be looked into. Additionally, protection and reasonable utilization of assets, for example, water, air and crude materials should be encouraged to preserve natural resources. Also, stopping human-initiated global warming process which as on today imposes a huge danger on the existence of life in different regions of the world should be enforced.

Moving from petroleum products to a sustainable power source in power, warming and cooling, and transportation, which tends to contaminate the environment, should be promoted. Cleaner fuels should be used as to minimise air pollution. Reasonable and less contaminating waste disposal and management including reduction of waste generated, reuse, reusing, fertilizing the soil, squander to-vitality, and anaerobic processing of sewage muck should be introduced in areas grappling with waste-related pollution of water.

Steps by Government to Save Environment:

A number of initiatives have been taken by various governments in order to aware people on the need to save the environment.

Some of them have been very popular among citizens such as:

1. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:

The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is India’s greatest save environment drive ever. The battle covers upwards of 4041 towns and goes for cleaning boulevards, streets, and foundation. It was formally announced on October 2, 2014, at Rajghat, New Delhi by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister even assigned nine conspicuous public from the nation to help and energize the activity.

2. The Cleaning of Rivers, Especially Ganga:

Three days in the wake of confirming as the fifteenth Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, expressed his goal of cleaning the Ganga River. It served a dual purpose, as it was eco-friendly on one side and the sacred for others on the side. The Prime Minister additionally set The Ganga Action Plan under the immediate supervision of Water Resources Minister Ms Uma Bharti. The Clean Ganga Plan includes five services working in close co-task to see the results in the dram project of the government.

We must give ourselves a chance to design our urban communities as per the available resources in the region. This is a must to ensure that overuse of resources does not take place. The less we dirty our environment, the more we avert a worldwide temperature alteration. We must check for measures to stop the rising level of water in the oceans due to global warming. Expanding number of associations are being shaped to keep the planet from untimely annihilation.

More corporates have joined the race to spare the planet. We can just start by purchasing reused items for our office, home or school. The more prominent the interest for reused items, the more these organizations will be urged to add reused material to their items. Finally, we must all understand that the movement to save the environment starts from me, myself and I. don’t wait for others to take the initiative. Begin today and the others will definitely follow.

The environment is simply the surroundings where all non-living and also living things are there and form a sort of relationship between one another. The components of the environment include soil, water, air, animals and human beings. All of the gifts provided through the natural environment are wonderful for the entire living organism most especially mankind.

All natural resources are very important to life so much that there would be no life without them. The rapid increase in the population of the world has led to the rise in the need for goods and materials by the very large population. The components of the environment and other natural resources are constantly and seriously being exploited and overexploited way above and beyond natural limits. The overexploitation and misuse of these natural resources is highly hazardous and dangerous to the health of humans and animals.

In the words of Margaret Thatcher, “No generation has a freehold on this earth. All we have is a life tenancy- with a full repairing lease.” There are a lot of reasons to save the environment; why wouldn’t anyone want to save his surrounding and the place that houses him.

Some points that describe the pollution of the environment largely because of the wastage and misuse of the natural resources around us and the effects of this continual wastage and misuse on both non-living and living things are discussed below:

1. Air Pollution:

The rapidly increasing rate of the use of diesel and petrol for the burning of fossil fuel majorly in industries, in order to generate energy is a devastating contribution to the pollution of the air. This causes an increase in the amount and levels of hydrocarbons, sulphur oxides, carbon monoxide, chloro-fluoro-carbons, etc. All of these are very harmful and hazardous gases that affect the human health negatively and can cause lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and a lot of other countless respiratory diseases. The ozone layer is also depleting at an alarming rate and this makes us very vulnerable and prone to the dangerous harm of ultraviolet rays. Air pollution harms the environment in numerous ways like global warming and also weakens and lowers the immune system.

2. Water Pollution:

The release of animal and human wastes that aren’t treated in fresh water, suspension of inorganic chemicals in water is leading to industrial wastes, and the draining of pesticides and fertilisers into rivers during irrigation can lead to the pollution of water bodies.

The pollution of water makes the water totally unfit for domestic use especially drinking and cooking (cancer and gastro-intestinal diseases are some of the few effects of the consumption of such water). The pollution of water also affects aquatic life in a very bad way such as the fishes in polluted waters are not fit for human consumption, the death of aquatic life and even the forced migration of aquatic organisms and animals to waters that aren’t polluted.

3. Soil Pollution:

Pesticides and fertilisers used on plants in soil do not just kill pests and provide nutrients to the soil but they also kill organisms and microorganisms that help improve the nutrients in the soil and thus produce crops that are less nutritious. Crops that have been exposed to chemicals through soil pollution over the years lead to cancer and various forms of mutation when consumed. Soil erosion has also become rampant as a result of construction and deforestation which has led to a higher flood frequency that costs a lot of human lives and properties.

4. Noise Pollution:

Vehicles and factories produce a lot of noise that can potentially cause permanent physical damage to man’s ear including permanent or temporary hearing loss. Noise pollution has a lot of negative effects on emotional, mental and psychological health and can cause irritability, anxiety and stress and all of these can lead to performance at work dropping.

There are some methods that can be employed to save the environment. Even way back in history, people have always been concerned about the environment and saving it.

Some of the methods we can employ in saving the environment are highlighted below:

i. The concept of 3Rs (recycle, reduce and reuse) should be applied and promoted so that we can prevent the highly excessive use of resources that are non-renewable. For example, new metal products can be made from scrap metal.

ii. Bulbs and tube lights that are energy efficient should be used to save energy.

iii. The use of wood and paper products should be reduced and the use of e-paper and e-book should be encouraged.

iv. The use of fossil fuels can be reduced by using public transport, walking, cycling or car-pooling.

v. Instead of using plastic bags, jute/cloth bags can be used.

vi. Solar panels and rechargeable batteries can be used as alternative sources of energy.

vii. Compost bins can be set up to produce manure instead of using fertilisers.

Even though there are various established laws and schemes constituted by governments in order to save the environment, it is everyone’s duty and responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for present and future generations.

There is a popular saying by Lester Brown that reads “We have not inherited this earth from our forefathers-we have borrowed it from our children.” So, every individual on earth must contribute his quota towards the conservation of the environment, not just waiting on the government to do everything.

Unknowingly or knowingly, we contribute to pollution every day. Therefore, it is important that we do both our individual best and collective best to get involved in activities that help save the planet like recycling of products, engaging in rainwater harvesting, avoidance of wastage of natural resources like fresh water and also resources like electricity. It doesn’t matter how small or large our contributions is? what really matters is that we are doing our best to save the environment. We can only save our environment through proper management and sustainable development.

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Environmental Issues Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on environmental issues.

The environment plays a significant role to support life on earth. But there are some issues that are causing damages to life and the ecosystem of the earth. It is related to the not only environment but with everyone that lives on the planet. Besides, its main source is pollution , global warming, greenhouse gas , and many others. The everyday activities of human are constantly degrading the quality of the environment which ultimately results in the loss of survival condition from the earth.

Source of Environment Issue

There are hundreds of issue that causing damage to the environment. But in this, we are going to discuss the main causes of environmental issues because they are very dangerous to life and the ecosystem.

Pollution – It is one of the main causes of an environmental issue because it poisons the air , water , soil , and noise. As we know that in the past few decades the numbers of industries have rapidly increased. Moreover, these industries discharge their untreated waste into the water bodies, on soil, and in air. Most of these wastes contain harmful and poisonous materials that spread very easily because of the movement of water bodies and wind.

Greenhouse Gases – These are the gases which are responsible for the increase in the temperature of the earth surface. This gases directly relates to air pollution because of the pollution produced by the vehicle and factories which contains a toxic chemical that harms the life and environment of earth.

Climate Changes – Due to environmental issue the climate is changing rapidly and things like smog, acid rains are getting common. Also, the number of natural calamities is also increasing and almost every year there is flood, famine, drought , landslides, earthquakes, and many more calamities are increasing.

Above all, human being and their greed for more is the ultimate cause of all the environmental issue.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

How to Minimize Environment Issue?

Now we know the major issues which are causing damage to the environment. So, now we can discuss the ways by which we can save our environment. For doing so we have to take some measures that will help us in fighting environmental issues .

Moreover, these issues will not only save the environment but also save the life and ecosystem of the planet. Some of the ways of minimizing environmental threat are discussed below:

Reforestation – It will not only help in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem but also help in restoring the natural cycles that work with it. Also, it will help in recharge of groundwater, maintaining the monsoon cycle , decreasing the number of carbons from the air, and many more.

The 3 R’s principle – For contributing to the environment one should have to use the 3 R’s principle that is Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Moreover, it helps the environment in a lot of ways.

To conclude, we can say that humans are a major source of environmental issues. Likewise, our activities are the major reason that the level of harmful gases and pollutants have increased in the environment. But now the humans have taken this problem seriously and now working to eradicate it. Above all, if all humans contribute equally to the environment then this issue can be fight backed. The natural balance can once again be restored.

FAQs about Environmental Issue

Q.1 Name the major environmental issues. A.1 The major environmental issues are pollution, environmental degradation, resource depletion, and climate change. Besides, there are several other environmental issues that also need attention.

Q.2 What is the cause of environmental change? A.2 Human activities are the main cause of environmental change. Moreover, due to our activities, the amount of greenhouse gases has rapidly increased over the past few decades.

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Community — Me as Part of My Community: Our Problems and Preferred Solutions

Me as Part of My Community: Our Problems and Preferred Solutions

• Categories: Community Recycling

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Published: Aug 14, 2023

Words: 1139 | Pages: 3 | 6 min read

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The nature and problems in my community, causes and effects linked to current problems, few possible solutions to address or solve community problems.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, tips for writing the community essay.

Hi fellow applicants! I've been working on the 'community essay' for some of my applications and I'm having trouble figuring out what to write about. Any advice on how to approach this essay and make it stand out? Thanks!

Hello! Writing a community essay can indeed be challenging, but with the right approach, you can create a standout piece. Here are some tips to help you craft a memorable essay:

1. Reflect on your personal experiences: Think about the communities you belong to, whether they're based on a physical location, a shared interest, or a certain background. Consider how your involvement in these communities has shaped the person you are today, and how you've contributed to their growth or well-being.

2. Be specific and provide anecdotes: To make your essay stand out, it's important to focus on a particular aspect of your community involvement. Share personal stories or unique experiences, rather than simply providing general descriptions of your community engagement.

3. Show growth and self-awareness: A well-written essay should convey the growth and personal development you've experienced through your involvement in a community. Don't be afraid to share challenges you've faced and the lessons you've learned from them. Demonstrating self-awareness and personal growth can give your essay a strong emotional impact.

4. Connect to your future aspirations: Reflect on how your community involvement has shaped your future goals and aspirations, and how you'd like to continue contributing to other communities in the future. This can help create a lasting impression on the admissions committee and show that you're committed to using your education for the betterment of your communities.

5. Edit and revise: As with any essay, make sure to thoroughly proofread and revise your work. This will help ensure that your essay is clear, concise, and free of any errors. Consider seeking feedback from a teacher, mentor, or peer to gain additional insights on how to improve your content.

In summary, to craft a standout community essay, focus on specific personal experiences, illustrate growth and self-awareness, and connect your involvement to your future aspirations. Best of luck with your applications!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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How to Save the Environment: 17 Easy & Helpful Things You Can Do at Home

Last Updated: June 24, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by One Tree Planted and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau . One Tree Planted is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on a mission to make it simple for anyone to help the environment by planting trees. Their projects span the globe and are done in partnership with local communities and knowledgeable experts to benefit nature, people, and wildlife. Since 2014, One Tree Planted has planted over 40 million trees across the globe. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,884,281 times.

Saving the environment might seem like a tall order, but living an environmentally friendly life is actually quite easy. With just a few small lifestyle changes, you can protect the planet while creating a healthier life for yourself and future generations. A single household or individual can make a big difference: the more people become environmentally conscious, the healthier our planet will be. Read on for a comprehensive list of tips on how you can save the environment at home.

Things You Should Know

• Follow the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle! Upcycle things you don’t need in fun creative projects, shop secondhand, and compost scraps too.
• Eat locally-grown foods, cut back on meat and dairy, and shop at farmer’s markets. Make an effort to conserve water and electricity around the house.
• Walk or bike rather than drive a car when possible. Volunteer your time to clean up the community and advocate for environmental awareness.

Plant a tree in your yard.

• You can also plant other plants in your yard that are native to your area in order to support local ecosystems and wildlife.
• If you don’t have a yard of your own, you could always support organizations that aim to plant more trees, like the Nature Conservancy’s Plant a Billion Trees campaign, or One Tree Planted .

Cut back on driving.

• Combine multiple errands into one trip to minimize the distance traveled and fuel consumed.
• If you need to use a car, choose fuel-efficient models or hybrid/electric vehicles. Regularly maintain your vehicle to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.
• Carpooling will also enable you to take a highway's High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane, usually saving time and money on gasoline.
• Many bus systems in major cities operate diesel-electric hybrid buses, reducing harmful emissions.

Volunteer to clean up your community.

• If you prefer to be part of a group, volunteer with friends, your class, a church group, or anyone else.

Recycle items properly.

• Check the rules and regulations in your area to ensure you recycle properly. For instance, some places may not accept glass, while others might require you to separate the different materials.
• It’s important to know what is and is not recyclable in your area because if you dispose of something improperly, the whole load will likely be rejected and end up in a landfill.

Upcycle items.

• You might turn glass jars into windchimes or create lanterns with them. You could turn an old metal dish rack into hanging wall storage or use old newspapers to line a garden path before covering it with pebbles.
• Upcycling can be as simple as refinishing or repainting a piece of furniture rather than replacing it outright!
• If you aren’t going to reuse something yourself, donate it. This ensures that nothing is wasted, and someone in need can use your old items.

Compost your food scraps and yard waste.

• Food scraps that can go in the compost pile include fruits and veggies, egg shells, coffee grounds, nut shells, and tea bags.
• You can compost plant matter like yard trimmings, grass clippings, leaves, houseplants, sawdust, and wood chips.
• Other biodegradable materials include shredded newspapers, cardboard, hair and fur, and even fireplace ashes.
• If you don’t plan to use your compost, check and see if garbage removal services in your area can pick up organic waste as well as trash and recycling.

Cut back on product consumption.

• Avoid purchasing products with excess packaging. Often, food companies spend just as much energy creating the packaging for food products as they do producing the actual food.
• When you do buy something, look for durable products that will last you a long time.
• Borrow or rent items you need only for brief or occasional use.

Shop at second-hand stores.

• This philosophy also applies to bigger purchases, like cars. Buying a secondhand car can help the environment and impacts your wallet less.
• If you have family members or friends looking to give away some clothing, consider doing a swap with them. You can refresh your wardrobe without buying anything at all.

Alena Le Blanc

Invest in well-made garments that are eco-friendly. Look for natural, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton or recycled synthetics. Look for durable denim with a high cotton content (around 98-99%). Prioritize quality over quantity to extend your closet's lifespan and reduce your environmental footprint.

Choose reusable items over single-use plastic.

• Next time you need batteries, consider investing in rechargeable ones. Most batteries can now be thrown out with the regular trash—thanks to reduced chemical use—but they still take up space in landfills.

Reduce the amount of paper you print and use.

• Try using a washable cloth or sponge for most of your cleanup if possible.

Buy locally-sourced foods.

• If you’re in the US, look for CSAs using the Department of Agriculture’s directory . Otherwise, do an online search for CSA produce boxes. Local foods are fresher, so they’re higher in nutrient value!
• Avoid waste by planning your meals ahead of time so you don’t cook more than you’ll eat. Store leftovers and use them for one of your meals over the next few days.
• Buy from local artisans, clothing makers, and retailers too. Avoid ordering things online to be shipped to you whenever possible. The more locally-sourced products you buy, the better.

Cut back on eating meat and dairy.

• You don’t have to go fully vegetarian or vegan, especially if you have dietary restrictions that would make it difficult. The most important thing is to cut back on meat and dairy as much as your dietary needs allow.
• Meat and dairy are also typically more expensive, so cutting back and eating vegetarian meals can help your wallet!
• Eat more seafood as well. Seafood (and seafood fishing) is much more sustainable than producing vast amounts of meat and dairy, and it’s a great source of protein in your diet.

Conserve water around the house.

• Consider investing in a high-efficiency washing machine in the future.
• Fix leaky faucets and pipes as soon as possible to avoid wasting water.
• Install efficient shower heads and low-flow faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms to reduce water consumption further.
• Use a pool cover if you have an outdoor swimming pool. This will prevent water from evaporating, so you don’t need to refill the pool as often.

Use fewer chemicals in your daily life.

• When you have hazardous materials to throw away—like fluorescent light bulbs, cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, automotive fluids, and paint—be sure you dispose of it properly .
• Harmful chemicals and materials should never end up in a landfill, sanitary sewer, or storm drain! Contact your local waste management office for proper disposal options.
• Avoid blowing up helium balloons, too. Fill them up with regular air instead.

Conserve electricity at home.

• When you buy new appliances, be sure to choose Energy Star-certified products.
• Air-dry your clothes on a clothesline rather than turning on a dryer.
• Cut back on your heating and air conditioning use by ensuring your home is properly insulated and sealing air leaks around doors and windows.
• If nothing else, you can always throw on a sweater when it’s cold or turn on a fan when it’s hot, rather than using energy-consuming air conditioning or heating.

Donate to environmental causes.

• For example, you could host a Facebook fundraiser on your birthday and ask people to donate to an organization you support.
• Check out organizations working to save the environment like the Rainforest Alliance , Earthjustice , the Ocean Conservancy , or the World Wildlife Fund .

Encourage others to help save the environment.

• Visit https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials to find local representatives in the United States.
• If a friend or family member asks for tips, be sure to educate them about what they can do to save the environment and encourage them to get involved, too!

Community Q&A

Reader Videos

• Stay up-to-date on environmental issues, using reliable sources of information. This way, you'll be able to share helpful information if someone asks for tips on how they can save the environment. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• If you have old clothes, donate them to a secondhand store or take them to a shelter so someone else can wear them.
• Before you start a new school year, look through last year's materials. Many supplies can be reused or recycled.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/build-healthy-cities/cities-stories/benefits-of-trees-forests/
• ↑ https://www.onegreenplanet.org/environment/awesome-hands-on-ways-you-can-volunteer-to-help-the-environment/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/frequent-questions-recycling
• ↑ https://upcyclemystuff.com/what-is-upcycling/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home
• ↑ https://habitatbroward.org/blog/benefits-of-buying-things-second-hand/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics
• ↑ https://sustainability.uic.edu/green-campus/recycling/paper-waste-reduction/
• ↑ http://www.gogreen.org/blog/the-environmental-benefits-of-buying-locally
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/greenchemistry/benefits-green-chemistry
• ↑ https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk//guidance/safety-around-the-home/energy-saving-tips/
• ↑ https://www.nrdc.org/stories/how-call-congress

About This Article

You can help save the environment by turning off things that use electricity when you're not using them and unplugging devices when they're not in use. You can conserve water by taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet when you're brushing your teeth, and doing laundry less frequently. Also, try walking or riding your bike instead of driving, which will help reduce carbon emissions. Buying your food locally also helps lower carbon emissions since the food doesn't have to be shipped from far away! If you want to learn more, like how to recycle or reuse materials, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Cultural Diversity Essay & Community Essay Examples

If you’ve started to research college application requirements for the schools on your list, you might have come across the “cultural diversity essay.” In this guide, we’ll explore the cultural diversity essay in depth. We will compare the cultural diversity essay to the community essay and discuss how to approach these kinds of supplements. We’ll also provide examples of diversity essays and community essay examples. But first, let’s discuss exactly what a cultural diversity essay is. 

The purpose of the cultural diversity essay in college applications is to show the admissions committee what makes you unique. The cultural diversity essay also lets you describe what type of “ diversity ” you would bring to campus.

We’ll also highlight a diversity essay sample for three college applications. These include the Georgetown application essay , Rice application essay , and Williams application essay . We’ll provide examples of diversity essays for each college. Then, for each of these college essays that worked, we will analyze their strengths to help you craft your own essays. 

Finally, we’ll give you some tips on how to write a cultural diversity essay that will make your applications shine. 

But first, let’s explore the types of college essays you might encounter on your college applications. 

Types of College Essays

College application requirements will differ among schools. However, you’ll submit one piece of writing to nearly every school on your list—the personal statement . A strong personal statement can help you stand out in the admissions process. 

So, how do you know what to write about? That depends on the type of college essay included in your college application requirements. 

There are a few main types of college essays that you might encounter in the college admissions process. Theese include the “Why School ” essay, the “Why Major ” essay, and the extracurricular activity essay. This also includes the type of essay we will focus on in this guide—the cultural diversity essay. 

“Why School” essay

The “Why School ” essay is exactly what it sounds like. For this type of college essay, you’ll need to underscore why you want to go to this particular school. 

However, don’t make the mistake of just listing off what you like about the school. Additionally, don’t just reiterate information you can find on their admissions website. Instead, you’ll want to make connections between what the school offers and how you are a great fit for that college community. 

“Why Major” essay

The idea behind the “Why Major ” essay is similar to that of the “Why School ” essay above. However, instead of writing about the school at large, this essay should highlight why you plan to study your chosen major.

There are plenty of directions you could take with this type of essay. For instance, you might describe how you chose this major, what career you plan to pursue upon graduation, or other details.

Extracurricular Activity essay

The extracurricular activity essay asks you to elaborate on one of the activities that you participated in outside of the classroom. 

For this type of college essay, you’ll need to select an extracurricular activity that you pursued while you were in high school. Bonus points if you can tie your extracurricular activity into your future major, career goals, or other extracurricular activities for college. Overall, your extracurricular activity essay should go beyond your activities list. In doing so, it should highlight why your chosen activity matters to you.

Cultural Diversity essay

The cultural diversity essay is your chance to expound upon diversity in all its forms. Before you write your cultural diversity essay, you should ask yourself some key questions. These questions can include: How will you bring diversity to your future college campus? What unique perspective do you bring to the table? 

Another sub-category of the cultural diversity essay is the gender diversity essay. As its name suggests, this essay would center around the author’s gender. This essay would highlight how gender shapes the way the writer understands the world around them. 

Later, we’ll look at examples of diversity essays and other college essays that worked. But before we do, let’s figure out how to identify a cultural diversity essay in the first place. 

How to identify a ‘cultural diversity’ essay

So, you’re wondering how you’ll be able to identify a cultural diversity essay as you review your college application requirements. 

Aside from the major giveaway of having the word “diversity” in the prompt, a cultural diversity essay will ask you to describe what makes you different from other applicants. In other words, what aspects of your unique culture(s) have influenced your perspective and shaped you into who you are today?

Diversity can refer to race, ethnicity, first-generation status, gender, or anything in between. You can write about a myriad of things in a cultural diversity essay. For instance, you might discuss your personal background, identity, values, experiences, or how you’ve overcome challenges in your life. 

However, don’t feel limited in what you can address in a cultural diversity essay. The words “culture” and “diversity” mean different things to different people. Above all, you’ll want your diversity essays for college to be personal and sincere. 

How is a ‘community’ essay different? 

A community essay can also be considered a cultural diversity essay. In fact, you can think of the community essay as a subcategory of the cultural diversity essay. However, there is a key difference between a community essay and a cultural diversity essay, which we will illustrate below. 

You might have already seen some community essay examples while you were researching college application requirements. But how exactly is a community essay different from a cultural diversity essay?

One way to tell the difference between community essay examples and cultural diversity essay examples is by the prompt. A community essay will highlight, well, community . This means it will focus on how your identity will shape your interactions on campus—not just how it informs your own experiences.

Two common forms to look out for

Community essay examples can take two forms. First, you’ll find community essay examples about your past experiences. These let you show the admissions team how you have positively influenced your own community. 

Other community essay examples, however, will focus on the future. These community essay examples will ask you to detail how you will contribute to your future college community. We refer to these as college community essay examples.

In college community essay examples, you’ll see applicants detail how they might interact with their fellow students. These essays may also discuss how students plan to positively contribute to the campus community. 

As we mentioned above, the community essay, along with community essay examples and college community essay examples, fit into the larger category of the cultural diversity essay. Although we do not have specific community essay examples or college community essay examples in this guide, we will continue to highlight the subtle differences between the two. 

Before we continue the discussion of community essay examples and college community essay examples, let’s start with some examples of cultural diversity essay prompts. For each of the cultural diversity essay prompts, we’ll name the institutions that include these diversity essays for college as part of their college application requirements. 

What are some examples of ‘cultural diversity’ essays? 

Now, you have a better understanding of the similarities and differences between the cultural diversity essay and the community essay. So, next, let’s look at some examples of cultural diversity essay prompts.

The prompts below are from the Georgetown application, Rice application, and Williams application, respectively. As we discuss the similarities and differences between prompts, remember the framework we provided above for what constitutes a cultural diversity essay and a community essay. 

Later in this guide, we’ll provide real examples of diversity essays, including Georgetown essay examples, Rice University essay examples, and Williams supplemental essays examples. These are all considered college essays that worked—meaning that the author was accepted into that particular institution. 

Georgetown Supplementals Essays

Later, we’ll look at Georgetown supplemental essay examples. Diversity essays for Georgetown are a product of this prompt: 

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you. 

You might have noticed two keywords in this prompt right away: “diverse” and “community.” These buzzwords indicate that this prompt is a cultural diversity essay. You could even argue that responses to this prompt would result in college community essay examples. After all, the prompt refers to the Georgetown community. 

For this prompt, you’ll want to produce a diversity essay sample that highlights who you are. In order to do that successfully, you’ll need to self-reflect before putting pen to paper. What aspects of your background, personality, or values best describe who you are? How might your presence at Georgetown influence or contribute to their diverse community? 

Additionally, this cultural diversity essay can be personal or creative. So, you have more flexibility with the Georgetown supplemental essays than with other similar diversity essay prompts. Depending on the direction you go, your response to this prompt could be considered a cultural diversity essay, gender diversity essay, or a college community essay. 

Rice University Essays

The current Rice acceptance rate is just 9% , making it a highly selective school. Because the Rice acceptance rate is so low, your personal statement and supplemental essays can make a huge difference. 

The Rice University essay examples we’ll provide below are based on this prompt: 

The quality of Rice’s academic life and the Residential College System are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspective would you contribute to life at Rice? 

Breaking down the prompt.

Like the prompt above, this cultural diversity essay asks about your “life experiences,” “cultural traditions,” and personal “perspectives.” These phrases indicate a cultural diversity essay. Keep in mind this may not be the exact prompt you’ll have to answer in your own Rice application. However, future Rice prompts will likely follow a similar framework as this diversity essay sample.

Although this prompt is not as flexible as the Georgetown prompt, it does let you discuss aspects of Rice’s academic life and Residential College System that appeal to you. You can also highlight how your experiences have influenced your personal perspective. 

The prompt also asks about how you would contribute to life at Rice. So, your response could also fall in line with college community essay examples. Remember, college community essay examples are another sub-category of community essay examples. Successful college community essay examples will illustrate the ways in which students would contribute to their future campus community. 

Williams Supplemental Essays

Like the Rice acceptance rate, the Williams acceptance rate is also 9% . Because the Williams acceptance rate is so low, you’ll want to pay close attention to the Williams supplemental essays examples as you begin the writing process. 

The Williams supplemental essays examples below are based on this prompt: 

Every first-year student at Williams lives in an Entry – a thoughtfully constructed microcosm of the student community that’s a defining part of the Williams experience. From the moment they arrive, students find themselves in what’s likely the most diverse collection of backgrounds, perspectives, and interests they’ve ever encountered. What might differentiate you from the 19 other first-year students in an Entry? What perspective would you add to the conversation with your peer(s)?

Reflecting on the prompt.

Immediately, words like “diverse,” “backgrounds,” “perspectives,” “interests,” and “differentiate” should stand out to you. These keywords highlight the fact that this is a cultural diversity essay. Similar to the Rice essay, this may not be the exact prompt you’ll face on your Williams application. However, we can still learn from it.

Like the Georgetown essay, this prompt requires you to put in some self-reflection before you start writing. What aspects of your background differentiate you from other people? How would these differences impact your interactions with peers? 

This prompt also touches on the “student community” and how you would “add to the conversation with your peer(s).” By extension, any strong responses to this prompt could also be considered as college community essay examples. 

Community Essays

All of the prompts above mention campus community. So, you could argue that they are also examples of community essays. 

Like we mentioned above, you can think of community essays as a subcategory of the cultural diversity essay. If the prompt alludes to the campus community, or if your response is centered on how you would interact within that community, your essay likely falls into the world of college community essay examples. 

Regardless of what you would classify the essay as, all successful essays will be thoughtful, personal, and rich with details. We’ll show you examples of this in our “college essays that worked” section below. 

Which schools require a cultural diversity or community essay? 

Besides Georgetown, Rice, and Williams, many other college applications require a cultural diversity essay or community essay. In fact, from the Ivy League to HBCUs and state schools, the cultural diversity essay is a staple across college applications. 

Although we will not provide a diversity essay sample for each of the colleges below, it is helpful to read the prompts. This will build your familiarity with other college applications that require a cultural diversity essay or community essay. Some schools that require a cultural diversity essay or community essay include New York University , Duke University , Harvard University , Johns Hopkins University , and University of Michigan . 

New York University

NYU listed a cultural diversity essay as part of its 2022-2023 college application requirements. Here is the prompt:

NYU was founded on the belief that a student’s identity should not dictate the ability for them to access higher education. That sense of opportunity for all students, of all backgrounds, remains a part of who we are today and a critical part of what makes us a world class university. Our community embraces diversity, in all its forms, as a cornerstone of the NYU experience. We would like to better understand how your experiences would help us to shape and grow our diverse community.

Duke university.

Duke is well-known for its community essay: 

What is your sense of Duke as a university and a community, and why do you consider it a good match for you? If there’s something in particular about our offerings that attracts you, feel free to share that as well.

A top-ranked Ivy League institution, Harvard University also has a cultural diversity essay as part of its college application requirements: 

Harvard has long recognized the importance of student body diversity of all kinds. We welcome you to write about distinctive aspects of your background, personal development, or the intellectual interests you might bring to your Harvard classmates.

Johns hopkins university.

The Johns Hopkins supplement is another example of a cultural diversity essay: 

Founded in the spirit of exploration and discovery, Johns Hopkins University encourages students to share their perspectives, develop their interests, and pursue new experiences. Use this space to share something you’d like the admissions committee to know about you (your interests, your background, your identity, or your community), and how it has shaped what you want to get out of your college experience at Hopkins. 

University of michigan.

The University of Michigan requires a community essay for its application: 

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong and describe that community and your place within it. 

Community essay examples.

The Duke and Michigan prompts are perfect illustrations of community essay examples. However, they have some critical differences. So, if you apply to both of these schools, you’ll have to change the way you approach either of these community essays. 

The Duke prompt asks you to highlight why you are a good match for the Duke community. You’ll also see this prompt in other community essay examples. To write a successful response to this prompt, you’ll need to reference offerings specific to Duke (or whichever college requires this essay). In order to know what to reference, you’ll need to do your research before you start writing. 

Consider the following questions as you write your diversity essay sample if the prompt is similar to Duke University’s

• What values does this college community have? 
• How do these tie in with what you value? 
• Is there something that this college offers that matches your interests, personality, or background?  

On the other hand, the Michigan essay prompt asks you to describe a community that you belong to as well as your place within that community. This is another variation of the prompt for community essay examples. 

To write a successful response to this prompt, you’ll need to identify a community that you belong to. Then, you’ll need to think critically about how you interact with that community. 

Below are some questions to consider as you write your diversity essay sample for colleges like Michigan: 

• Out of all the communities you belong to, which can you highlight in your response? 
• How have you impacted this community? 
• How has this community impacted you?

Now, in the next few sections, we’ll dive into the Georgetown supplemental essay examples, the Rice university essay examples, and the Williams supplemental essays examples. After each diversity essay sample, we’ll include a breakdown of why these are considered college essays that worked. 

Georgetown Essay Examples

As a reminder, the Georgetown essay examples respond to this prompt: 

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you.

Here is the excerpt of the diversity essay sample from our Georgetown essay examples: 

Georgetown University Essay Example

The best thing I ever did was skip eight days of school in a row. Despite the protests of teachers over missed class time, I told them that the world is my classroom. The lessons I remember most are those that took place during my annual family vacation to coastal Maine. That rural world is the most authentic and incredible classroom where learning simply happens and becomes exponential. 

Years ago, as I hunted through the rocks and seaweed for seaglass and mussels, I befriended a Maine local hauling her battered kayak on the shore. Though I didn’t realize it at the time, I had found a kindred spirit in Jeanne. Jeanne is a year-round resident who is more than the hard working, rugged Mainer that meets the eye; reserved and humble in nature, she is a wealth of knowledge and is self-taught through necessity. With thoughtful attention to detail, I engineered a primitive ramp made of driftwood and a pulley system to haul her kayak up the cliff. We diligently figured out complex problems and developed solutions through trial and error.

After running out of conventional materials, I recycled and reimagined items that had washed ashore. We expected to succeed, but were not afraid to fail. Working with Jeanne has been the best classroom in the world; without textbooks or technology, she has made a difference in my life. Whether building a basic irrigation system for her organic garden or installing solar panels to harness the sun’s energy, every project has shown me the value of taking action and making an impact. Each year brings a different project with new excitement and unique challenges. My resourcefulness, problem solving ability, and innovative thinking have advanced under her tutelage. 

While exploring the rocky coast of Maine, I embrace every experience as an unparalleled educational opportunity that transcends any classroom environment. I discovered that firsthand experience and real-world application of science are my best teachers. In school, applications of complex calculations and abstract theories are sometimes obscured by grades and structure. In Maine, I expand my love of science and renourish my curious spirit. I am a highly independent, frugal, resilient Mainer living as a southern girl in NC. 

Why this essay worked

This is one of the Georgetown supplemental essay examples that works, and here’s why. The author starts the essay with an interesting hook, which makes the reader want to learn more about this person and their perspective. 

Throughout the essay, the author illustrates their intellectual curiosity. From befriending Jeanne and creating a pulley system to engineering other projects on the rocky coast of Maine, the author demonstrates how they welcome challenges and work to solve problems. 

Further, the author mentions values that matter to them—taking action and making an impact. Both facets are also part of Georgetown’s core values . By making these connections in their essay, the author shows the admissions committee exactly how they would be a great fit for the Georgetown community. 

Finally, the author uses their experience in Maine to showcase their love of science, which is likely the field they will study at Georgetown. Like this writer, you should try to include most important parts of your identity into your essay. This includes things like life experiences, passions, majors, extracurricular activities for college, and more. 

Rice University Essay Examples

The Rice University essay examples are from this prompt: 

The quality of Rice’s academic life and the Residential College System are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspective would you contribute to life at Rice? (500-word limit)

Rice university essay example.

Like every applicant, I also have a story to share. A story that makes me who I am and consists of chapters about my life experiences and adventures. Having been born in a different country, my journey to America was one of the most difficult things I had ever experienced. Everything felt different. The atmosphere, the places, the food, and especially the people. Everywhere I looked, I saw something new. Although it was a bit overwhelming, one thing had not changed.

The caring nature of the people was still prevalent in everyday interactions. I was overwhelmed by how supportive and understanding people were of one another. Whether it is race, religion, or culture, everyone was accepted and appreciated. I knew that I could be whoever I wanted to be and that the only limitation was my imagination. Through hard work and persistence I put my all in everything that I did. I get this work ethic from my father since he is living proof that anything can be accomplished with continued determination. Listening to the childhood stories he told me, my dad would reminisce about how he was born in an impoverished area in a third world country during a turbulent and unpredictable time.

Even with a passion for learning, he had to work a laborious job in an attempt to help his parents make ends meet. He talked about how he would study under the street lights when the power went out at home. His parents wanted something better for him, as did he. Not living in America changed nothing about their work ethic. His parents continued to work hard daily, in an attempt to provide for their son. My dad worked and studied countless hours, paying his way through school with jobs and scholarships. His efforts paid off when he finally moved to America and opened his own business. None of it would have been possible without tremendous effort and dedication needed for a better life, values that are instilled within me as well, and this is the perspective that I wish to bring to Rice. 

This diversity essay sample references the author’s unique life experiences and personal perspective, which makes it one example of college essays that worked. The author begins the essay by alluding to their unique story—they were born in a different country and then came to America. Instead of facing this change as a challenge, the author shows how this new experience helped them to feel comfortable with all kinds of people. They also highlight how their diversity was accepted and appreciated. 

Additionally, the author incorporates information about their father’s story, which helps to frame their own values and where those values came from. The values that they chose to highlight also fall in line with the values of the Rice community. 

Williams Supplemental Essay Examples

Let’s read the prompt that inspired so many strong Williams supplemental essays examples again: 

Every first-year student at Williams lives in an Entry—a thoughtfully constructed microcosm of the student community that’s a defining part of the Williams experience. From the moment they arrive, students find themselves in what’s likely the most diverse collection of backgrounds, perspectives and interests they’ve ever encountered. What might differentiate you from the 19 other first-year students in an entry? What perspective(s) would you add to the conversation with your peers?

Williams college essay example.

Through the flow in my head

See you clad in red

But not just the clothes

It’s your whole being

Covering in this sickening blanket

Of heat and pain

Are you in agony, I wonder?

Is this the hell they told me about?

Have we been condemned?

Reduced to nothing but pain

At least we have each other

In our envelopes of crimson

I try in vain

“Take my hands” I shriek

“Let’s protect each other, 

You and me, through this hell”

My body contorts

And deforms into nothingness

You remain the same

Clad in red

With faraway eyes

You, like a statue

Your eyes fixed somewhere else

You never see me

Just the red briefcase in your heart

We aren’t together

It’s always been me alone

While you stand there, aloof, with the briefcase in your heart.

I wrote this poem the day my prayer request for the Uighur Muslims got denied at school. At the time, I was stunned. I was taught to have empathy for those around me. Yet, that empathy disappears when told to extend it to someone different. I can’t comprehend this contradiction and I refuse to. 

At Williams, I hope to become a Community Engagement Fellow at the Davis Center. I hope to use Williams’ support for social justice and advocacy to educate my fellow classmates on social issues around the world. Williams students are not just scholars but also leaders and changemakers. Together, we can strive to better the world through advocacy.

Human’s capability for love is endless. We just need to open our hearts to everyone. 

It’s time to let the briefcase go and look at those around us with our real human eyes.

We see you now. Please forgive us.

As we mentioned above, the Williams acceptance rate is incredibly low. This makes the supplemental essay that much more important. 

This diversity essay sample works because it is personal and memorable. The author chooses to start the essay off with a poem. Which, if done right, will immediately grab the reader’s attention. 

Further, the author contextualizes the poem by explaining the circumstances surrounding it—they wrote it in response to a prayer request that was denied at school. In doing so, they also highlight their own values of empathy and embracing diversity. 

Finally, the author ends their cultural diversity essay by describing what excites them about Williams. They also discuss how they see themselves interacting within the Williams community. This is a key piece of the essay, as it helps the reader understand how the author would be a good fit for Williams. 

The examples provided within this essay also touch on issues that are important to the author, which provides a glimpse into the type of student the author would be on campus. Additionally, this response shows what potential extracurricular activities for college the author might be interested in pursuing while at Williams. 

How to Write a Cultural Diversity Essay

You want your diversity essay to stand out from any other diversity essay sample. But how do you write a successful cultural diversity essay? 

First, consider what pieces of your identity you want to highlight in your essay. Of course, race and ethnicity are important facets of diversity. However, there are plenty of other factors to consider. 

As you brainstorm, think outside the box to figure out what aspects of your identity help make up who you are. Because identity and diversity fall on a spectrum, there is no right or wrong answer here. 

Fit your ideas to the specific school

Once you’ve decided on what you want to represent in your cultural diversity essay, think about how that fits into the college of your choice. Use your cultural diversity essay to make connections to the school. If your college has specific values or programs that align with your identity, then include them in your cultural diversity essay! 

Above all, you should write about something that is important to you. Your cultural diversity essay, gender diversity essay, or community essay will succeed if you are passionate about your topic and willing to get personal. 

Additional Tips for Community & Cultural Diversity Essays

1. start early.

In order to create the strongest diversity essay possible, you’ll want to start early. Filling out college applications is already a time-consuming process. So, you can cut back on additional stress and anxiety by writing your cultural diversity essay as early as possible. 

2. Brainstorm

Writing a cultural diversity essay or community essay is a personal process. To set yourself up for success, take time to brainstorm and reflect on your topic. Overall, you want your cultural diversity essay to be a good indication of who you are and what makes you a unique applicant. 

3. Proofread

We can’t stress this final tip enough. Be sure to proofread your cultural diversity essay before you hit the submit button. Additionally, you can read your essay aloud to hear how it flows. You can also can ask someone you trust, like your college advisor or a teacher, to help proofread your essay as well.

Other CollegeAdvisor Essay Resources to Explore

Looking for additional resources on supplemental essays for the colleges we mentioned above? Do you need help with incorporating extracurricular activities for college into your essays or crafting a strong diversity essay sample? We’ve got you covered. 

Our how to get into Georgetown guide covers additional tips on how to approach the supplemental diversity essay. If you’re wondering how to write about community in your essay, check out our campus community article for an insider’s perspective on Williams College.

Want to learn strategies for writing compelling cultural diversity essays? Check out this Q&A webinar, featuring a former Georgetown admissions officer. And, if you’re still unsure of what to highlight in your community essay, try getting inspiration from a virtual college tour . 

Cultural Diversity Essay & Community Essay Examples – Final Thoughts

Your supplemental essays are an important piece of the college application puzzle. With colleges becoming more competitive than ever, you’ll want to do everything you can to create a strong candidate profile. This includes writing well-crafted responses for a cultural diversity essay, gender diversity essay, or community essay. 

We hope our cultural diversity essay guide helped you learn more about this common type of supplemental essay. As you are writing your own cultural diversity essay or community essay, use the essay examples from Georgetown, Rice, and Williams above as your guide. 

Getting into top schools takes a lot more than a strong resume. Writing specific, thoughtful, and personal responses for a cultural diversity essay, gender diversity essay, or community essay will put you one step closer to maximizing your chances of admission. Good luck!

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How to Write the Community Essay for UPenn

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Vinay Bhaskara and Aja Altenhof in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

Writing about diversity, consider unconventional identities and perspectives, navigating the word count.

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) requires applicants to submit supplemental essays in addition to the main Common App essay . For the second supplemental essay, UPenn asks students to respond to the following prompt:

How will you explore community at Penn? Consider Penn will shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape Penn. (150-200 words)

This article provides some tips to help you craft your response to this essay prompt, including strategies to avoid common topics, as well as tips to navigate the short word limit.

When approaching this prompt, many students first think to write about diversity, equity, and inclusion. While this topic can work in some cases, it is important to note that this prompt is not inherently about diversity. It is first and foremost a space to showcase the best parts of yourself outside of the classroom that will positively impact, and thrive within, the UPenn community.

Students who have a unique or interesting approach to answering this question typically tend to be the most successful when it comes to writing about diversity for this prompt. If you are interested in writing about diversity, equity, and inclusion, but your topic is not nuanced or particularly strong, you can consider other strategies and topics for this essay.

One strategic way to choose a topic for this prompt is by being unconventional in how you define your perspective or identity, especially when you consider your mindset and elements of your personality. 

As you consider your perspective, it can be helpful to explore how that perspective has been defined through your experiences. For example, depending on your background, you could consider what it is like to go through life as an athlete, as a journalist, or as a debater. 

Keep in mind that you will ultimately have to consider how that perspective impacts your engagement with the community around you, and the personality and values that you bring to the table.

In truth, this supplemental essay may be the trickiest of the three UPenn essays to write. This is because you have to address both parts of the prompt, how UPenn is going to shape your perspective or identity, and how your identity and perspective will shape UPenn, all within just 200 words. There are a few useful tactics that you can employ to help navigate this essay’s short word count.

One trick you can use to help you navigate this essay is by using a “call and response structure.” In this structure, you describe a trait that you have and then, within the same sentence, articulate a behavior or an outcome that this trait will cause on campus. You can also use this structure in the opposite way, to highlight an aspect of Penn’s campus experience and the way in which it will impact your own identity or perspective.

Furthermore, because this essay is on the shorter side, it can be difficult to tell a full story within it. That said, you certainly can hint at an anecdote or an experience that relates to the value, unique perspective, and opportunities and experiences that you will bring with you to UPenn.

For more information on writing UPenn’s supplemental essays, check out our post on How to Write the UPenn Supplemental Essays 2022-2023 .

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Subscriber only, opinion columnists | column: embrace zero-waste efforts to help the environment.

Simply put, zero waste means producing little or no waste. Communities can work toward zero waste by refusing, reducing, reusing, repairing, repurposing, recycling and composting. It is time to rethink our waste habits and be more mindful.

Refusing and reducing is the No. 1 way to cut back on waste in our landfills. Refuse an item if you don’t need it, such as skipping the straw or plastic utensils. Before you purchase an item, consider if you really need it. When you do purchase, select items with minimal packaging and be sure they are compostable or recyclable.

Reuse items whenever possible. Get in the habit of opting for reusable water bottles, travel mugs, utensils, metal straws and reusable grocery totes. Investing in reusable and durable products will decrease the need for new ones. Use these products to their full extent by fixing broken or malfunctioning items. Not only is repairing broken items good for the environment, in many instances it can also save you money.

Repurpose items before you toss them. Check the internet for creative ideas. If repurposing is not viable, then donate unwanted items that are still in workable condition to local organizations or post the item on your neighborhood’s FaceBook free swap page.

Recycling is the last step in the zero-waste hierarchy. Recycling saves natural resources, reduces the amount of waste in landfills, saves energy, prevents pollution and creates jobs. However, it is very important to recycle correctly. Never put plastic bags of any kind in your recycling cart as they get stuck in the sorting machines at the recycling center. The recycling can’s lid is embossed with allowed items. Currently, this includes the following (clean and rinsed) in Virginia Beach:

• Paper: newspaper; magazines; junk mail; paperback books; flattened, unwaxed, clean and dry cardboard and chipboard (no greasy pizza boxes)
• Plastics No. 1-7: plastic bottles and jugs (“check for the neck”); water bottles; soap bottles; detergent bottles; milk jugs
• Food and juice cartons: milk; juice; protein drinks; wine cartons; soup cartons
• Glass bottles and jars: all colors of glass beverage and food containers
• Cans: aluminum cans, tin cans and steel cans

The average household produces 650 pounds of organic trash a year. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that more food reaches landfills than any other single material, constituting 24% of municipal solid waste. Composting at home using food scraps from your kitchen and dry leaves can reduce your trash by at least 50%. And buying foods with little or no packaging reduces it even more. Reduce organic material in your trash more by mulch mowing or composting your yard clippings.

Learn more about composting from Virginia Beach Master Gardeners at their Fall Garden Festival on Sept. 28 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the AREC at 1444 Diamond Springs Rd.

Want to help beautify your city? Join us at the International Coastal Cleanup event on Sept. 21 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Beach Garden Park. Information at parkeventsvb.com .

Spread the word about Zero Waste Awareness Week. Encourage your friends and family to stop and think before they throw something in the trash. Check the City of Virginia Beach Waste Management Division website and social media page for more ideas toward zero waste at virginiabeach.gov/wastemgt and share them.

Maury Hill serves as chair of the Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission. Terry Ann Stevens serves as vice chair. 

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