As we approach the end of 2019, it marks not only the end of another year, but also the end of a decade. And while this decade was monumental in many great ways, in terms of climate change, it was a slap in the face.
We experienced the hottest decade ever recorded. Hurricanes like Katrina, Sandy, and Harvey devastated communities and took the lives of thousands. Wildfires raged through the west coast, destroying ecosystems and wildlife. Scientists estimate that species are going extinct at rates 1000 times faster than normal. Simply put, climate change is real, and it will only get worse.
Many blame the government or large corporations for this issue, but refuse to take on climate change themselves. The truth is, we were too late years ago. The time to take action has already past, and it is up to us, the individual people to come together to take down this crisis. If not for the environment we owe our lives to, we need to take action for the sake of our future generations.
We are at perhaps the most important time period in human history. As we start a new decade, we need to look back at the damage that has already been done, and look forward to a new, green future. That is the main reason why I decided to start this club. Our club is so much more than a hiking club, it is an environmental club. While it has only been a few months since we founded this club, I have already found a greater appreciation for the environment that we must protect.
I am proud to say that as a club, we have taken the first step towards this fight against climate change. As we hiked along the Billy Goat Trail, we raised awareness of the breathtaking views of nature and the beauty that it provides. As we collected trash at South Lakes we made a small, but important contribution towards cleaning the planet. As we created, sold, and donated over a hundred bars of environmentally friendly soap, we initiated a change in making our local communities greener.
As this club continues to grow, we will be the leaders toward a cleaner, greener, and healthier world. I am looking forward to a new decade and to the great things that this club will accomplish.