Polls show that most people want to live their lives in a way that is easier on the environment. Looking around, things seem pretty much the same as they did in 1970 when we had the first Earth Day. We have made some progress but over all we are using more resources and polluting more than ever. It is difficult for us to change. Many environmentalists believe that it will take a major disaster before people really walk their talk.
Disaster does elicit change but so does education.
Some of the houses could be held by UMKC as homes for urban studies students interested in participant observation studies in sustainable community living. A building along Troost could become a farmers market and neighborhood food coop for natural or organic foods. Harrison and Charlotte could be narrowed for more pedestrian access. People who worked within walking distance of the area could be given preference. UMKC s counseling department could be available for employment counseling, finding jobs for people along bus lines or in the immediate area.