Of the hundreds of plant species in York, Maine, many of them are considered to be invasive and/or non-native. According to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry, Maine has around 2,100 plant species, one third of which are non-native or invasive species. Non-native and invasive plants can cause irreversible damage to the surrounding environment and to other indigenous species, especially in areas like York that consist of a variety of different environments that range from terrestrial to oceanic. Most of these species can become serious threats to indigenous species during the growing seasons of spring, summer, and fall. Not only do these threats include the loss of biodiversity and increases the odds of food insecurity, but the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has stated that invasive and non-native species can weaken the resilience of natural habitats battling the effects of climate change, which can negatively impact the well-being of humans who reside in or rely on these natural areas. The lack of knowledge surrounding the spread of invasive species can also cause detrimental impacts to humans. Invasive species can spread new diseases, existing diseases, or other toxins into the environment, according to the U.S Department of Agriculture. York Ready For Climate Action seeks to mitigate these impacts by educating the public on the environmental and human consequences of invasive and non-native plant species.
Irresponsible gardening practices, such as using non-native species in gardens, methane filled fertilizers and gardening out-of-season plants decreases biodiversity and environmental integrity of the city of York, Maine. This problem stems from a lack of knowledge within the York community on sustainable gardening practices. If non native plants and invasive species continue to out compete native ones, then York is at risk to lose the majority of its natural ecosystems. Not only will this have vastly detrimental effects on the environment but younger generations will never get the opportunity to learn and interact with their native and natural environment.
We know this is not the only way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but by starting educational programs that come to individual homes more individuals would be willing to take part in greenhouse gas emission reduction. While York Ready for Climate Action supports the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by supporting climate actions, enhancing awareness of the effects of climate change, and advocating for solutions that move us toward sustainable earth. Since then our group has broadened its stated goals to include direct environmental actions to which our goal for this proposal is to educate the community on invasive plant species that prevent native plants from being carbon sinks that absorb carbon in turn, helping regulate the number of greenhouse gasses within the atmosphere. Leading to widespread knowledge of sustainable gardening and food waste management that will greatly decrease greenhouse gas emissions in the community. In addition to helping establish conservation and sustainable use of the natural York environment starting at home.
