Today’s world appears to be so fascinating, the latest technology, inventions, and modern conveniences making it seem like the world is progressing to become a better place. But beneath the benefits of these modern innovations lies major environmental impacts, damaging the earth and its domain at a more rapid pace than humans may realize.
Junior Graham Hempstead first became aware of the dangers on the environment a few years ago when he began watching conservation documentaries on Netflix. “I love to be outside,” Hempstead said, “So I have to care about it.”
Hempstead said that being outside so often really made him become aware of the impacts humans have made on this earth. “You kind of notice it when you see it on the ground. Just look at the highway, trash is literally everywhere.”
WIth a love for the outdoors, Hempstead recommends ditching the cars and taking a more energy-efficient route route. “I skate places instead of driving. Unless it’s like a blizzard, then I guess I’d drive. But any distance under two miles I try go outside and get active.”
If people don’t begin to take steps towards becoming eco-friendly, Hempstead worries about the concerns it can have on the environment. “Just look at the data. See the waters getting warmer, ecosystems dying. Soon it will just be us and the cold world.”
Rob Stewart, conservationist and creator of the documentaries Sharkwater and Revolution, as well as BHS teacher Dave Gorrill are two men who have influenced Hempstead’s passion for the environment. Stewart and Gorrill, as well as many others, have educated Hempstead on different impacts humans have on the world and its diverse ecosystems. Gorrill informed Hempstead about the trash plant located in Rochester, MA. “We’re all just breathing trash air,” Hempstead said, making it clear that people should take steps to an eco-friendly way of living so that we breath less “trash air”, coming from places as far as Rochester, MA.
Daily steps that can be made, according to Hempstead, are avoiding plastic straws and lids at restaurants. Hempstead adds this option allows you to “Sit down and enjoy your food”, and prevents trash from being left in your car. If 7 billion people are using plastic straws and lids frequently, it will lead the world farther from the goal of staying as clean and healthy as possible. “That’s a lot of plastic lids and straws,” Hempstead said. An alternative option would be investing in a reusable cup; Hempstead recently purchased one himself. “I’m stoked on that” he said, recommending the inexpensive item that will make a big difference on the environment.
Hempstead plans to someday work in conservation fields and actively fight for the environment, informing people about the importance of protecting earth. Shaped by his interest in the environment at such a young age, Hempstead hopes to continue his passion through a job in the future. “Tell all the dudes to rock on” Hempstead said, radiating positive vibes and all love for the earth.