Green Profile- John McCarthy, CUA College Democrats

Our final Green Profile is John McCarthy the newly elected Chairman of the CUA College Democrats.

Ryan: What first inspired you to get involved with environmental issues, and specifically with College Democrats?

John: Growing up in New Jersey, specifically around the Raritan Bayshore region, I was always sensitive to issues regarding offshore energy development including oil drilling and exploration, liquefied natural gas and the potential for renewable energy sources. First engaged as a child in an issue specifically specifically engaging my hometown in a debate over local dredging of beach sand, I saw the direct result that federal and state policy can play in environmental protection. Coming from Monmouth County New Jersey, one of the greatest agricultural producers in the state, I grown to appreciate the importance of "agri-tourism" and the contributions of local produce to the economic region.

Ryan: What role do you see college students playing in the fight to stop global climate change and promote sustainability?

John: College students have the unique opportunity to take action in a community that is typically pre-charged with the activist spirit. While other community organizers must first work to engage their community, college students are fortunate to have a (typically) willing audience to share their message. Students are already seen as leaders in their community for their scholastic commitment and local leadership, and in that sense, have the great responsibility to be stewards of a message promoting sustainable living options as well as the importance of responding to the global climate shift that we are currently undergoing. By remaining engaged in the local governance and community initiatives, College Democrats gain the ability to craft an environmental platform and action plan tailored directly to their neighborhoods.

Ryan: What is one measure college students can take to make climate change a major focus on their respective campuses?

John: Being Green is fashionable right now! Everyone is looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, while creating long-term solutions to environmental problems. Target that! Students can look around their campuses and see where the university is creating the most waste. Perhaps they are not disposing properly of toxic technological equipment. Maybe they chose to use Styrofoam in the cafeteria despite having the option towards a more reusable alternative. Do they make it difficult to use reusable water bottles and take-out containers? If so, you already have a specific problem you can target. Universities often serve as the petri dishes for initiatives later applied to municipalities. Take action, observe your results, and share with your local elected officials.

Ryan: Any other advice for aspiring environmentalists looking to get involved?

John: Environmental stewardship is counter intuitive. When we stand in front of the refrigerated section at a convenience store, rarely do we think that the entire contents of that case will be in a landfill within a week. Environmental activism is rooted in shifted lifestyles and the sharing of stories. If an individual is able to successfully share their story about how they were able to change their environmental impact and how it has benefited them and the world around them, they have succeeded. Environmental activism is founded in this exchange of ideas and the motivation for a more sustainable lifestyle.