Linfield College’s recent effort to increase sustainability reflects the importance of environmentalism, as well as the school’s understanding of the severity of climate change.

College students created the Renewable Energy and Sustainability Grant Fund in 2009, which generates $30,000 each year for renewable energy and sustainability projects on campus.

This includes the creation of the bike co-op, in addition to the school’s recent expansion of the Linfield Garden.

This movement exemplifies the importance of sustainability due to its effect on current and future generations alike.

In addition, it relates to society’s overarching concern about climate change.

The wavering public concern for climate change is likely due to a weakened trust in climate science, which is problematic because an increase in support is crucial to pass necessary environmental policies.

According to the government, climate change poses temperature changes, more severe natural disasters and public health threats.

The government claims this is caused by greenhouse gas pollution, which is why the U.S. Climate Action Plan focuses on reducing emissions and increasing reliance on renewable energy.

Linfield Professor Jim Diamond says the government’s action is a step in the right direction, however, he says it is merely a “baby step.”

He claims the U.S. must reduce its emissions by at least 70 percent to avoid serious climate change effects, which will have the largest effect on future generations.

This means it is our generation’s responsibility to raise awareness about climate change and increase support for environmental policies.

Although climate action is essential to the success of the planet and society alike, there is controversy surrounding the effectiveness of the government’s action plan.

The government plans to increase renewable energy reliance through energy outlets such as wind, solar and hydropower, which all produce fewer emissions than coal-burning power plants.

Although the government claims these energy sources will benefit the environment, environmental scientist Jesse Ausubel says wind, solar and hydropower sources damage the environment due to the land space they encompass.

Regardless of the support and opposition for the government’s climate action, environmental policy expert Frank Laird says an essential makeover of the energy system will be difficult.

We must begin with awareness; climate change consequences must be addressed and societal action must be encouraged.

This will fuel the climate change fight and reduce the negative effects that Generation Z and future generations are projected to experience.

The government can implement policies and regulations to reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency, but the strongest force of action comes from society.

It is our generation’s responsibility to ensure the support of this movement.