Kidzu Children's Museum Environmental Analysis

Since covering the topic of the environment in class last week, I have really noticed how environmentally-friendly Kidzu Children’s Museum actually is. Something that I am particularly impressed in regards to the museum is its creativity in promoting this idea of being “environmentally conscious”: from the implementation of innovative and engaging programs to the choice of language and phrasing Kidzu team members are taught to use when interacting with museum patrons in the Makery. Because of the museum’s multifaceted approach to tackling environmental issues, I believe that kids are learning how being environmentally friendly can be fun and incredibly beneficial -- for both themselves and their communities. As explained by Dolgon and Baker (2011), “environmental problems in the United States are inextricably linked to lifestyle and energy use.” I feel that this phrase absolutely rings true in contemporary society: our country can best be characterized by mass consumerism and the subsequent “throwaway mentality” that comes along with having an excess of disposable commodities (Dolgon and Baker, 2011). When I think of excess in this particular way, my brain tends to go to the fast food …show more content…
For example, the runoff from waste from these huge animal farms can infiltrate our water supply. Toxic waste and feces can be made into fertilizer, which is then used to grow our vegetables. Food of all kinds, from chocolate to fish and everything in between, is be shipped from across the country or world continuously. Kidzu’s “Kids in the Kitchen” program stresses the importance of buying organic and local food from the community for healthy eating and living. Every week, for a small fee, children and their parents explore the Chapel Hill Farmer’s Market to meet local farmers and purchase ingredients to be made into a treat once back at the