Greetings to all from Olympia, Washington. I’m a senior at the Evergreen State College here and have taken on the task of becoming more active in the environmental movement. Though this city’s been touted as being eco-friendly, I’ve seen much evidence to the contrary and was hoping to connect with others out there who may share my frustration. I’m also hoping for some much-needed advice.

One thing that I’ve seen a hell of a lot of in Oly is litter. In particular, I’ve noticed that there are many cigarette smokers in town who seem to feel that flicking their butts onto the ground is somehow good for the environment ... or they otherwise just don’t give a shit. Meanwhile, I as a non-smoker and a lover of the natural world find this practice increasingly disturbing as I continue to see this EVERYWHERE in town. I’ve gone so far as to follow a smoker I saw tossing their butt into the street and harassed her for a block, but came out of that with nothing more to show for it than more frustration that I could do nothing to make a positive change.

I’ve thought about writing the local newspaper, but what could that do? Other than the newspaper, what are some other sources any of you might know of where I could begin to address this issue and maybe begin to resolve it?

I’d appreciate any advice you have to offer, as this has contributed to a mounting frustration with the human race. I want to make a change for the better in this world, but how can I when so many people just don’t seem to give a shit?

~Cecilia