Red, White, and Green

If the inhabitants of Earth continue on their current path of environmental negligence, I envision the DC of 2209 to be completely different from the one in which we currently live. Firstly, the District would know longer be the capital of a democratic nation; the destruction of the biosphere and its respective ecosystems, as we have read, outlined, and discussed in class, will eventually cause complete ruin to our society. Well, complete ruin could be a hyperbole, but at least a solid amount of disruption. Assuming a Malthusian outcome, food supplies will dwindle as populations skyrocket; as population density increases, disease will spread more quickly. Also, climate change will invoke a number of devastating effects, among them being a swell in sea levels, causing a flooding of coastal towns. Although these predictions are a bit apocalyptic, it is not unreasonable to assume that fear, panic, and disorder will arise in the midst of these ecological disasters, prompting a police state response. After a national emergency is declared, the marshall law will fail to be lifted, and government of strict control and obedience will be instated. A bit dramatic, yes, but I envision DC with a heavy smog over it, government buildings grey and decrepit, not unlike the scene in The Matrix that shows the actual crumbling New York City. New environmental regulations may be passed, but it will be too late; the pollution and degradation of nature will force every one indoors, prey to the whims of an altered environment.

That is the cynical view of the future. Hopefully, DC will resemble something much more sustainable and greener, both figuratively and literally. DC may be the epicenter of world politics, but I would like to see focus on local efforts and resources, especially when it comes to food and energy. As a Virginia resident (begrudgingly), I'm aware of the delicious produce that the fertile Piedmont soil can grow; the Mid-Atlantic is extremely capable of sustaining itself nutritionally. Also, DC should take advantage of the nearby coast in harnessing tidal power for its energy needs, as well as use the Appalachians for wind turbines. The city itself is small, and perhaps too urban already to completely isolate itself, as suggested in Tom Butler's article; although not as ideal as farming in the District itself, gleaning resources from Virginia and Maryland is a major improvement. Amongst other practical solutions, DC should take a cue from New York City, and severely cut the number of cars allowed in the city through heavy fees, as well as taxi quotas. By promoting public transportation and bicycling (the addition of bicycle lanes would a welcome addition), DC can be a thriving city and urban role model.