Healthy ecosystems, permeated with biodiversity are, as stated in this article published by the United Nations, our strongest defense against climate change. As an ecosystem loses its biodiversity, it becomes less able to sustain its native life, and the local environment begins to dwindle in size and health. As this happens, with decreasing suitable habitat for varying plant and wildlife, damages to the local environment perpetuate a cycle of deterioration causing ecosystems to become less effective in capturing carbon dioxide. Caused by human interference, including industrial and urban land usage, pollution, carrying and introducing seeds of invasive species that choke and outgrow native plants, and other irresponsible harms, declining health of ecosystems accelerates global warming, while also resulting in a decline in wildlife habitats, and reducing the amount of recreational outdoor spaces for local communities to enjoy. As a community, it is our responsibility to take measures to protect the ecosystems that surround us, including reversing harms that have been introduced from negligent behaviors such as overly suppressive fire protection measures and harmful energy production methods, as well as prevent future damage, even through steps as simple as encouraging responsible practices when using local trails and outdoor spaces.
AP Chemistry deepened my understanding of the causes of climate change, and its impacts, by teaching me in-depth how fossils fuels work. Learning about endothermic and exothermic reactions and systems have taught me much about the science behind climate change, and lessons on how the influx of atmospheric carbon dioxide trap heat perpetuates the greenhouse effect have taught me much about the problem at hand.
Calculus 2, on the other hand, has inspired me to find solutions to said problem. By teaching methods of optimization, seemingly abstract lessons using Taylor series, derivative tests, and parameterization have taught me methods that we as humans can use to minimize our impact on Earth's climate, mitigating environmental harm, and adapting to fit a sustainable future. This has inspired me to major in Mechanical Engineering, while focusing my courseload on renewable energy systems, using math and logic to optimize human impact for a sustainable future.
Taking what I have learned about the climate throughout my time at BVSD, as well as engineering skills I have picked up from those around me on the way, I will be continuing my education next fall at the University of Tulsa, majoring in Mechanical Engineering and minoring in Energy Transition. I hope to devote my career to negating humanity's reliance
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