Zoe Lowry It is extremely challenging to detach ourselves from the views of others and to recognize and live true to our own passions, gifts, and purpose. However, gaining this deep understanding of self is the only way to achieve unconditional happiness and sustainability--in the sense of meeting our personal needs (emotional, spiritual, and tangible ones) in harmony with … [Read more...] about Awaken
Focus on Pages
The "Focus On" section provides in-depth information and opinion on many facets of sustainability. (Although these topics may appear quite distinct and separate, it’s important to remember that they are interconnected and interdependent in multiple ways — in general, the 4 basic principles of ecology apply to all complex systems.)
When you select a Focus On… topic, the system will select all the articles and posts in that category with the most recent pages at the top, just under a brief introduction to the topic. (Many articles appear in multiple categories.)
Background & detail information is organized into the main categories listed in the left sidebar.
Community & Culture
Strong communities allow more sustainable practices to empower the people to create a more sustainable society.
Working together on common interests creates opportunities for both personal and community growth, promotes involvement in the arts and local government, and fosters equality.
Misinformation Pandemic
Johnny Wilk Originally from Palmerton, Johnny has been aLehigh Valley resident for most of his life. … [Read more...] about Misinformation Pandemic
Restorative Justice: A New Hope
Emily Kim The tension between marginalized communities and law enforcement officers has existed since the establishment of police forces. We acknowledge that the systematically racist and white supremacist issues regarding police forces are complex and therefore can’t be tackled all at once. The essay excerpt below focuses on restorative practices within the current criminal … [Read more...] about Restorative Justice: A New Hope
Don’t Open the Door
Cecelia Tabor The electric buzz of the lights was constant, like crickets on a summer’s night. The noise would only stop when the blackouts hit. But these were occurring more and more frequently. The lights would flicker, sputtering feebly in the damp rooms, and then die. Silence would fill the underground world as large white eyes blinked rapidly, adjusting to the … [Read more...] about Don’t Open the Door
Gentrify No More, Preserve History!
Anthony Thompson Finding a solution to prevent further gentrification of Southside Bethlehem and instead help the urban communities in the area and preserve the historic properties is an important issue for the City of Bethlehem. Gentrification is a huge issue in southside Bethlehem; businesses, restaurants, luxury high-rise apartments, and other establishments have opened … [Read more...] about Gentrify No More, Preserve History!
Humanity
Amaiya Kavachery How many times have I thought the world was ending How many days are we left spending Fearful What is the cause? Sadly the people mask the truth, not themselves It is fake news, “fake news” You need to know Temperatures are low In Antarctica You need to see Burning trees Of wildfires You need to feel The fate we have sealed Repercussions. Mutations of … [Read more...] about Humanity
The Power of Inclusion
Ivy Tharouniatis It is crucial for every child to have unique experiences with their peers. One thing a lot of neurotypical children (those without learning disabilities) miss out on is interaction with neurodivergent students (those with learning disabilities.) Conversely, it is important for students with learning disabilities to have interactions with their fellow peers, … [Read more...] about The Power of Inclusion
Not So Different, You and I
Jacob Fuhrer Oh, glory to the working man, who works the land with calloused hands. And glory to the highest tree, With leaves that drift like steam off tea. Glory to the axe he owns, That turns the trees to stumps and stones. Glory to the branching arms, Which reach toward skies like knotting yarn. Glory to his next of kin, For whom he swings his axe of sin. Glory to the … [Read more...] about Not So Different, You and I
We, the Ocean
Lia Embil I began with the rising sun, and the icy wind. The water was still cold from the darkness of the night. People came by, watching me collect natural objects and trash from the ocean, bring them to land, and lay them out in a circular configuration. Back and forth, back and forth. I remained there, on that shore, moving and bending and walking and carrying and … [Read more...] about We, the Ocean
Welcome to our 20th issue!
The following pages invite a radical type of societal and self reflection prompted by the connections drawn between climate change and other systemic issues. They are all related symptoms of a defunct system based on overconsumption and resource inequality. We invite you to imagine a world that’s more equitable for everyone — not just a select few with extreme wealth or luck. … [Read more...] about Welcome to our 20th issue!