Mitch Lowenthal, a student at the George Washington University majoring in Political Science, is an environmental leader at GWU and DCYEA.
What got you to where you are today?
Hard work, integrity, and a positive attitude.
What got you started with environmentalism?
I was fortunate enough to get a private viewing of An Inconvenient Truth hosted by a US representative to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which is a body of the United Nations. I had always cared about the environment, but this movie showed me the importance of taking that passion and turning it into political action.
Describe your work at GW and beyond:
I have served on GreenGW’s eboard as the Director of Politics. I join my peers at Powershift conferences and volunteer at the Green Festival each year. As a member of the Sustainability Coalition, it was great to witness President Knapp sign the President’s Climate Commitment. Although I still help out when ever I can, the majority of my time goes towards my job working at the Environmental Protection Agency.
What keeps you motivated?
Whenever I come across a news story related to the environment containing a problem that could be solved with collective action I am motivated to work towards a solution. Learning about the newest innovative plans for a healthier environment inspires me to continue spreading knowledge.
Why is it important for young people to get involved?
Young people must get involved because the world will be ours in a few decades. We have a right to tell society we demand a more sustainable lifestyle. The ability to influence our families and friends is enormous. Applying pressure from a variety of fronts is the best way to change the attitudes of those in government, business and academia.
What are your goals for 2009?
My goal for 2009 is to hold people accountable for their promises. The President of the United States needs to show a strong commitment to his words; the President of the George Washington University needs to follow suit. The second thing that needs to expand is engagement. The environmental movement would be nothing without members. Not everyone is an activist; accordingly, those who want to help but are not sure how to get involved need to be engaged. The more people carrying the message of environmental freedom, the easier it will be to change our written and unwritten policies.
Any words of advice/wisdom for young people looking to make a difference?
A problem that many of us face is not to look down upon those who may not be as environmentally conscious. It is important not to threaten or get angry but to share and build cooperation. People are not easily persuaded by a call for compassion. Many need to see the personal benefit, so phrase your call for consciousness in a positive light. You will gain a healthier future if more toxins are banned or you will save money over time if you invest in a hybrid vehicle. This language is easier to embrace than chastising the person for destroying your air or being called cruel for owning an SUV.
