THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, June 14, 1996 TAG: 9606140021
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A18 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 40 lines
In response to Virginia Beach's recent decision to discontinue SPSA curbside recycling, I call into question the integrity of the city's representatives who apparently are only verbally committed to preserving the area's precious environment.
I understand the conflicting pressures of development and conservation, but I would expect the regional leadership to provide a compromise conducive to all segments of the community.
Limiting the city's recycling options and assuming all citizens will shoulder a responsibility perceived as burdensome is highly improbable and will have detrimental repercussions. Although the drop-off centers are adequate for those of us dedicated enough to continue this process at our own will, the majority of people are too apathetic to use the centers, thus wasting energy and resources.
There is a prevalent tendency in our society to ignore problems until they have a direct and negative effect on us personally. Those, who out of ignorance or arrogance, disregard the vital functions of the environment must acknowledge a link between each human and nature (i.e., every fisherman, surfer, gardener, beachcomber, hotel and restaurant owner). It disturbs me to walk on the beach with a bag to collect trash rather than seashells. Unless we act responsibly now, eventually trash will wash up on our shores with every crashing wave - not an appealing forecast, and one that can be prevented.
The city must accept the responsibility to set the example by implementing its leadership and authoritative capacities to aid and promote recycling. The residents of Virginia Beach possess the ability, whether by recycling or more extensive measures, to protect the aesthetic beauty of the city. Rather than limit our recycling options, it is imperative that the city expand the horizons of conservation by suppling recycling bins on the beaches. By not expanding our recycling efforts, we do a disservice to our environment and our communities.
ANNIE E. STRICKLER
Virginia Beach, May 31, 1996 by CNB