Wangari Maathai Essay

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Recommended: Broadly speaking in considering the link between emotions and decision making

So why does all of these accomplishments matter? What makes Wangari Maathai such an important figure in the world of sustainability? Maathai represents a leader in environmental activism and sustainability in agriculture that can be used as a vehicle for community engagement. This is exactly what happened when she initiated the Greenbelt movement. Because agriculture and sustainability can be a tool to engage the local community and to participate in how their environment works can also aid in fostering a community in pride. An example of how community engagement worked can be seen through this quote from Maathai’s book Unbowed. “After the women had planted seedlings on their farms, I suggested that they go to surrounding areas and convince …show more content…

Maathai spoke up and fought for what was important in times of need, she used her voice and let it be heard. In class we touched upon the idea of human health and touch; being emotionally touched and moved. Wangari did exactly this in Kenya with the Greenbelt Movement; she embodied knowledge that can help people take action. With her strong emotional connection with nature from such a young age she was able to carry that love with her throughout life and use it to create this movement to save her country’s depleting ecosystem. Without heart it is hard to have the motivation that Wangari Maathai had throughout her journey of being an environmental activist. If you don’t love something and hold great pride in what you do, creating a successful outcome will not be very easy. Love is the driving force behind making a change because no matter the setbacks or adversities faced you know the reason behind your motivation is because you have a specific connection with the issue you are trying to resolve. Another main concept learned in class that relates to Wangari’s actions is awareness. Being aware of how we can have an affect on nature is very beneficial to maintain a sustainable

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