Leya Aleyu Q3 Benchmark Reflection

Unit Essential Questions:

What value do we see in the biodiversity and natural resources of the earth?

The value of biodiversity and the natural resources of the earth we see is how they are essential for supporting all life by providing us with clean air, fresh water, food, medicine, and materials we need to survive.

What human actions are associated with altering earth’s natural systems?

Agricultural practices like deforestation, overuse of water, greenhouse gas emissions, use of harmful chemicals, burning of fossil fuels, and damage to soil health are human actions associated with altering the earth’s natural systems.

How can individuals, communities and or nations live more sustainably?

Individuals, communities, and nations can live more sustainably by making a few small changes and sacrifices. First, we should use as much renewable energy as possible, like solar and wind power, to reduce our reliance on nonrenewable fossil fuels that foster climate change. We also need to stop wasting resources and conserve what we can, especially water. Recycling should become a norm for everyone. Small swaps are important. For example, in agriculture, we can switch to using compost instead of harmful pesticides.

Reflection Questions:

How did this project deepen your understanding of sustainability?

This project deepened my understanding of sustainability by awakening me to how switching to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy aren’t the only two ways to become more sustainable. Most people are unaware of that, but literally, there are tons of ways, some small and some big, that can help us reach our goal of sustainability. You can fit sustainability into your lifestyle; there isn’t just one cookie-cutter layout.

What information about your chosen industry surprised you most? Why?

The information about my chosen industry that surprised me the most was that in many countries, agriculture is the leading source of pollution. We always hear about clothing and transportation causing so much harm, but you rarely hear about the environmental impacts the agricultural industry has, besides from vegans worried about animals. It also scared me how much of our freshwater is being used up by the industry. 69 percent, is way more than half. How do we even have enough drinking water?

How did you contribute to your groups project? Provide specific examples. What were you proud of, in terms of your overall project?

I contributed to my group’s project by finding all the information, creating the slides and business overview, going out and getting the materials needed to create our diorama, and spending a whole school day putting the physical component together. I’m proud of everything. Literally, I’m proud of the business overview and how compelling it is, all the amazing research I did, how the slides and diorama turned out, and how I managed to get a lot done despite of certain group members.