Education is key for the teens trying to go green

Webb said without education, progress cannot be made. "If (the students) are not educated, they will not care, and they can't make change till they care."

Many high school students are concerned about the environment, but don't know the best ways to help. Others may know, but don't take the time to help.

Webb said that a crucial part of education is experiencing the environment first hand. He said that once students take a closer look at their surroundings and see how complicated and fragile even the smallest animals and plants are, they will begin to realize the importance of environmental health.

Central York senior Eric Sanders said teens should pay more attention to the news, become more informed and then try to think about possible solutions to problems.

They can also start taking action now.

Webb said that a good way to start is to "simply consume less in every facet of our lives."

Virtually every electronic device contains heavy metals, which, if not properly disposed of, can leech into and contaminate ground or surface water. Teens can make sure that their used electronic devices do not end up causing environmental damage by seeking drop boxes for recycling them. Many office-supply stores offer such programs, and may even offer store credit.

Transportation is another area where teens can make a considerable difference. Instead of driving to school, they can ride the bus, public transportation or carpool.

Central senior Jayson Myers carpools with a friend and maintains a compost pile, which allows food waste to be turned into rich fertilizer, eliminating the need to buy commercial fertilizers that contribute to nutrient loading in local bodies of water.

Buying locally grown produce and farm products can also help, Webb said. They are higher quality and support the local economy, in addition to conserving resources wasted in transport from field to market, he added.

"Take a shorter shower, " suggested Central senior Michael Loughran.

Becoming an activist can also help.

Central senior Patricia Sullivan said, "Get involved with organizations and businesses that are environmentally friendly, and write to politicians to promote bills that help the environment."

While it may seem like these measures are obvious, many are not practiced by adults, let alone teens. Many require very little change in lifestyle and can have a considerable environmental impact.

Teens should consider the problems their generation will face in the coming years if the health of the environment is ignored.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Use fluorescent light bulbs rather than the standard incandescent
variety. They save money and electricity.

Instead of turning up the heat, add layers. You can lower your heating
costs considerably if you make yourself warmer rather than the entire house.

Check those leaky faucets. Several gallons of water can be wasted each
week by small leaks in faucets. Every little bit helps.

Avoid anti-bacterial soaps. These soaps don't kill more germs than
regular soap, and the chemicals in them may not be broken down at wastewater
treatment plants. If the sludge from the plant is used on a farm field, these
chemicals can find their way into food supplies.