Reading Response 3~ Millennium Development Goals
Ensure Environmental Sustainability

The environment has always been a priority to me. All throughout my childhood I wanted to be a marine biologist. My room was painted with sea animals and I had hundreds (not kidding) of sea books and encyclopedias scattered about in hopes that I would learn about a new creature. At that time you could ask me questions about anything involving the ocean and if I couldn't immediately answer, I would seek to the books and learn. This was all before I realized that I have a fear of deep water/clouded water that I can't see through (this did dampen the dreams of marine biology, unfortunately.)

Not only was I interested in the ocean, but the environment as a whole. I started recycling and encouraging others to do so at school. This is why I was so attracted to number seven on the Millennium Development Goals. Number seven is Ensure Environmental Sustainability.

In Missouri alone the Least Tern, Gray bat, Indiana bat, Ozark Big-Eared bat, Ozark Hellbender, and many more species are on the official endangered list. I found this information after reading the fact sheet for the environmental page.


"Although more land and marine areas are under protection, many species of birds, mammals and others are heading for extinction at a fast pace. Significant progress has been made in increasing the coverage of protected areas dedicated to safeguarding and maintaining biological diversity and natural resources. 14.6 per cent of the world’s land surface is now protected, while marine protection has more than doubled since 1990, from 4.6 per cent to 9.7 per cent in coastal waters. At the same time, species are moving towards extinction at an ever-faster pace, and reduced biodiversity will have serious consequences for the ecosystem services upon which all people depend"


I have always had an interest in environmental protection, and I always will. It is so interesting for me to read the goals and accomplishments so far of the Millennium Development Goals. I am really proud of the work that has been done so far to protect the environment and the species that inhabit that land and can't wait to see what they do next to help.

My absolute favorite photo describing the tragedy that has sparked regarding shark fins. I encourage you to look up the situation if you so desire, but it will definitely anger you. (as long as you are a normal caring person, I suppose)