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Make connections: Individual responsibility

REFLECT

Make connections: Individual responsibility.

After exploring The Problem with Lawns, consider the content and questions below. Then submit your response.

The Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) has identified the problem of water waste as well as the people causing the problem: individual homeowners. According to the Authority, “92% of the water in [Las Vegas] is used among residences and non-gaming businesses throughout Clark County.” If those places have a lawn, then the majority of their water bill is devoted to maintaining their lawn since green, lush yards aren’t natural to the desert landscape. This contradicts the assumption that the massive tourism industry and attractions in Las Vegas use most of the water. The Southern Nevada Water Authority has proposed the solution of zero-scaping, and it has even offered financial incentive to homeowners to convert their lawns.

Think of other situations in which many individuals doing one small action end up collectively creating more of a problem than large industries or organizations. Use these questions to get started:

How was the problem identified, and how were people notified about the effect of their actions?
Consider whether you think government organizations or non-profit agencies like the Southern Nevada Water Authority should have any say in how individuals maintain their property. Should they be allowed to distribute notices such as door hangers like the investigator in the video?

Question

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1. Reflect