From campus to county: a place-conscious orientation to the sustainability issues and opportunities of Ball State University, Muncie, and Delaware County

Abstract

Place-consciousness, the idea of knowing and respecting one’s surrounding environment and social community, is crucial for a sustainable future. This creative project is intended to orient students and stakeholders of Ball State University, Muncie, and Delaware County to a selection of sustainability issues and opportunities relevant to the area. This project examines the following local sustainability issues: biodiversity, transparency, climate change, homelessness, community resources, remediation, food deserts, alternative farming, and renewable energy. These topics are discussed, in a journalistic manner, focusing on one or more of the aspects of sustainability—the environment, the community, and the economy. Additionally, each section of the project, Ball State University, Muncie, and Delaware County, features opportunities for environmental awareness, environmental learning, and environmental action, respectively. With a lens of relativity and timeliness, this project aims to share local sustainability issues through a lucid, interactive, and educational approach.