Timeline
Life Before Awareness
What impact could I possibly have?
I was someone who did not think about the consequences of my actions on the environment. When I threw away trash, I would place it wherever was nearest to me, even if it wasn't allowed due to segregation, because I thought, "What is my trash going to do?" I bought clothes for myself and only considered mainstream brands because I thought they had the best quality, which is not always the case. I was focused on running away from my own problems and did not consider other people or the environment.
The teaching of Ateneo
I began to see my connection
During the second semester, I took a subject that examined my connection to the environment from a different perspective. I realized that the collective actions of people who think the way I used to contribute to bigger problems. In my last STS class, I understood that if others see me being accountable - by practicing CLAYGO in the Gonzaga cafeteria and mindfully disposing of my trash both on and off campus - my extra effort could inspire change. When more people reach the same realization, our combined actions will create greater impact. These realizations developed gradually, but I've committed to consistently being a more responsible community member.
Starting Small, Thinking Big
From quick action to being more mindful
After making small changes to my actions, I'm now ready to go further. When making purchases, I will consciously avoid products with unsustainable packaging, even if they require fewer resources. Companies will continue unsustainable practices unless consumers voice their disapproval. I avoid any cheap products that are designed to be obsolete within a few years because these actions contribute 5 kilograms of e-waste per year. This collective pressure can ultimately drive businesses to change their operations.
Progress through sustainability
I want to be more than just an engineer
As I continue through my course, I see the fundamental building blocks that shape the technology influencing our world. As the world uses more electricity to power AI, and as technologies become more capable than their predecessors, this will generate more e-waste and materials that cannot be recycled. I want to build products that focuses more on being sustainable rather than profit, making the electronics consumables like led light, car battery last as long as possible rather than designed to be obsolete. I want to advocate for innovation that balances advancement and responsibility.
"I make a conscious effort to review the company's sustainability goals when I buy a product especially toward consumer electronics"