Without argument, sex sells. This formula has dictated so effectively the mindset and trends of our youth. As young adults, are we able to decide for ourselves what is sexy or have we surrendered our judgment to MTV to do that for us? Despite the misleading title of reality TV, there is something real (and sexy) happening, not in the unobtainable allusions of "The Hills," but right here on campus in the form of sustainability. It is, in fact, OK to get involved in the environment, community and especially campus life. After all, each one of us directly benefits the happiness we are all pursuing. It is ignorant and irresponsible to attribute all activism, environmentalism and other -isms to extremist, left wing, tree-hugging hippies. To be fair, politics has somehow become popular among a younger crowd that was dubbed the Quiet Generation. This election has seen unprecedented voter turnouts thanks to the efforts of celebrities, as well as the charisma of the candidates themselves, to influence the minds of a demographic which usually bears little influence on decisions of this magnitude. So if you think politics is interesting, then listen to this: Sustainability is sexy and everyone is doing it. Naomi Iwabuchi, a member of Sustainable Saunders, sat down with me to explain what is going on behind the scenes of the environmentally aware organization and what should be brought to the forefront. She said that while a large portion of the group's efforts are devoted to the science and research necessary to find more sustainable avenues to save money, energy and the environment, Sustainable Saunders is not limited specifically to science, and those looking to get involved should not be intimidated. Instead, the realization that everyone has their own unique talents has been one of the greatest assets to the members who meet twice per week in what they call the HUB (Help Us Bridge). As an art student, Iwabuchi was given a project to utilize her talents, with encouragement to do it her own way. Iwabuchi stresses that the energy comes not from parading or protests, but instead from staying active in the campus community and maintaining a positive attitude. Overall, what makes this group sexy is that they aren't your stereotypical nerds or crazy activists; they get together to skateboard, surf and simply hang out just like the rest of us, while being aware of the benefits sustainable living brings to all of our lives. Personally, I find that much sexier than the latest fashions or celebrity gossip.
University of Hawaii-Manoa Ka Leo O Hawaii: UH Manoa Student College Newspaper & Media > Commentary
Sustainability is sexy
Published: Thursday, October 16, 2008
Updated: Monday, August 3, 2009 18:08






Be the first to comment on this article! Log in to Comment
You must be logged in to comment on an article. Not already a member? Register now