On this Earth Day, we should look to the water.
Two of the biggest Earth “cleaners” are in the water. Algae, coral, and underwater vegetation accounts for 93% of carbon dioxide storage, according to the Worldwatch Institute. And, Chesapeake Bay oysters, at one point, were said to be able to filter the entire bay daily.
Unfortunately, largely because of pollution, oceans appear to be absorbing about 10% less CO2 since 2000; and, due to overharvesting and disease, oysters have fallen to the point where there is now a major restoration effort underway by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
As conservatives – and following in the legacy of one of the greatest conservatives and conservationists, Pres. Theodore Roosevelt – it’s important not only to respect and understand our regional ecology, but to do things to preserve it.
While I don’t believe that man is the sole cause of depleting the ozone layer (after all, more Co2 has been emitted by the recent volcanic eruption than probably the entire history of the automobile), I do believe we have had a role in reducing those things that absorb and transform Co2 and pollution.
That’s why I’m pleased to announce that on June 5, Bearing Drift will participate in the 22nd Annual “Clean the Bay Day.”
From the Chesapeake Bay Foundation:
“Cigarette butts, plastic bottles and bags, tires, paper, furniture, bikes, construction materials, are just a sample of the types of debris that pollute our shorelines and waterways, kill marine and other wildlife, and degrade our communities and the water quality of the bay. As rain falls onto our streets, roofs, parking lots, and lawns, the stormwater runoff collects debris and other pollutants, travels through the storm drains and ditches and ultimately deposits this pollution in our waterways and along our shorelines. The debris is a visible and pervasive reminder that the Chesapeake Bay needs restoration and improved stewardship.”
Almost all of Virginia is part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed – so whether you’re in Shenandoah, Richmond, or Emporia, you’re affected by the bay. However, if you’re interested in joining like-minded conservatives for a couple hours on a Saturday morning in Hampton Roads to do at least a small part in helping make our environment a little cleaner and more enjoyable, then go to our Bearing Drift Insiders page on Facebook and register to attend!
I hope you’ll consider participating in this worthwhile endeavor. See you on June 5th!
