Essay #3 – Persuasive Essay
Length: 5-6 pages, plus works cited
Percentage of Grade: 20%
Final Due Date: See course schedule
Introduction:
A persuasive essay persuades. It’s as simple as that. It attempts to convince you of something, or to cause you to action. In order to accomplish this, a good persuasive essay will use everything it has to use – narrative, comparison/contrast, cause and effect… – and will carefully organize and use these tools in combination, along with documented research and an explanation of that research and how it all fits together, to win. It does not have to be “right,” if there is such a thing, to be good. It does, however, need to be convincing.
Assignment:
Write a persuasive essay. Another way to say that is find something you would like fixed and then convince those who can fix it that it in their best interest to do so. I suggest you pick something local, or with local impact, and certainly something you both care about and are willing to research. To that end, do not write about abortion, gun control, the death penalty, gay marriage, prayer in schools, or any other argument you would not change your mind about regardless of the information you find in the research. I don’t care what side you are on. Think of it this way: for these topics, if someone already agrees with you, it’s not an argument; if they don’t agree with you, you’re wrong. End of argument.
Organization:
Organize your persuasive essay in whatever way best makes your case. Use everything you’ve ever learned, especially if it came from this class, and anything else you can come up with to prove your point. Do research, document what you find, and use it. This is required. You need at least three credible sources from the academic database, and I recommend five. Eight would be even better. Cite them carefully, so the in-text citations line up with the works cited page and leave no room for error. Do not be afraid of the opposition. Often the most effective method is to give us their case and refute it before moving on to your own, more practical
solution. Make it look good.
Format: Use MLA format for both the paper and citations, in Times New Roman 12 point font, double-spaced with 1” (standard) margins.
Title: Implementing a Recycling Program in Our Community
Introduction:
In the modern world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of public discourse, it is imperative for communities to take proactive measures to mitigate their ecological footprint. One such measure is the establishment of comprehensive recycling programs. Recycling not only conserves natural resources and reduces pollution but also generates economic benefits and fosters a sense of environmental stewardship within the community. Thus, it is paramount that our local authorities recognize the importance of implementing a recycling program in our community. This persuasive essay aims to demonstrate the necessity and feasibility of such a program, backed by credible research and logical arguments.
Argument:
- Environmental Impact: Recycling significantly reduces the strain on natural resources by conserving energy and raw materials. According to a study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling aluminum cans saves 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum from raw materials (“Advantages of Recycling”). Additionally, recycling paper conserves trees and reduces deforestation, thereby preserving biodiversity. By implementing a recycling program, our community can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
- Economic Benefits: Contrary to popular belief, recycling is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically viable. A report by the Recycling Economic Development Initiative found that recycling and reuse activities in the United States accounted for 757,000 jobs and generated $36.6 billion in wages (“Recycling Economic Information”). By diverting waste from landfills and promoting recycling, our community can create job opportunities in recycling industries while reducing waste management costs.
- Public Health and Well-being: Landfills are not only unsightly but also pose significant risks to public health. Decomposing organic waste in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Moreover, landfill sites can contaminate groundwater and soil, jeopardizing public health. By implementing a recycling program, our community can mitigate these risks and create a cleaner, healthier environment for current and future generations.
- Addressing Concerns: Some may argue that implementing a recycling program is costly and impractical for our community. However, research suggests otherwise. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management found that the long-term benefits of recycling outweigh the initial costs (“Assessing the Costs and Benefits of Recycling”). Furthermore, innovative financing mechanisms, such as extended producer responsibility and pay-as-you-throw schemes, can help offset the costs of recycling programs while incentivizing waste reduction and recycling.
Additionally, concerns about the effectiveness of recycling programs can be addressed through education and outreach efforts. By raising awareness about the importance of recycling and providing residents with the necessary resources and infrastructure, our community can ensure the success of the program.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the implementation of a recycling program in our community is not only environmentally responsible but also economically advantageous and essential for public health and well-being. By embracing recycling, we can protect natural resources, create jobs, and promote sustainable development. Therefore, I urge our local authorities to prioritize the establishment of a comprehensive recycling program for the benefit of our community and future generations.
Works Cited:
“Advantages of Recycling.” Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/recycle/advantages-recycling.
“Assessing the Costs and Benefits of Recycling: A British Perspective.” Journal of Environmental Management, vol. 92, no. 10, 2011, pp. 2588–2594.
“Recycling Economic Information.” Recycling Economic Development Initiative, www.rediinfo.org/recycling-economic-information/.