Alright, cool cats! Let's dive into the world of Environmental Value Systems (EVSs). Think of these as the personalized filters or sunglasses through which we all view and respond to environmental issues. Now, let's break down what shades your EVS glasses might have.

ocial Influences: The people you hang out with, your family, friends, can play a huge part in how you view environmental issues. Let's say your parents are the real-life Captain Planets, and your friends are all about saving the environment. If you're surrounded by these eco-heroes, you're more likely to pick up their green habits, like recycling or biking to school instead of hitching a ride.

Real-World Example: Picture this. You've grown up with a family that's all about reducing their carbon footprint. They drive electric cars, grow some of their own food, and have solar panels on the roof. Your friend group is also eco-conscious. This social environment makes you more likely to share similar values and respond proactively to environmental concerns, like fighting climate change.

Personal Characteristics: Your personal characteristics also impact how you view environmental issues. Are you determined, stubborn, or laid back? For example, if you are a strong-willed individual with a passion for making a change, you might be more driven to find solutions to global warming.

Real-World Example: Emma, an ambitious and determined teenager, forms a club at school that encourages students to bike or walk to school, reducing carbon emissions. Her personal characteristics are influencing her EVS.

Education and Knowledge: Knowing about environmental issues is a huge factor too. For instance, reading a book like "Six Degrees" by Mark Lynas can make you aware of how increasing temperatures could affect our planet and in turn, shape your EVS.

Real-World Example: After attending a seminar on climate change and reading several related articles, John becomes more conscious of his energy use at home. He starts switching off lights when not needed, reduces air conditioning use, and promotes these practices among his friends too. His newfound knowledge has shaped his EVS.

Your environment also plays a part. If you live in a city with an easy recycling procedure, you're more likely to recycle. But if you live somewhere where recycling is as rare as spotting a unicorn, well, you're less likely to do it.

Real-World Example: Consider two people - Amy lives in a city with easily accessible recycling facilities. She recycles almost everything, from plastic containers to old newspapers. However, Ben, who lives in a remote town without recycling facilities, might find it harder to recycle and instead dispose of his waste in a regular trash bin. Same environmental value, different opportunities to express it.

That's all for today's session, folks! Remember, just like those sunglasses of yours, your EVS is unique to you and can change over time based on different factors. Now, let's go out there and show the world what our EVSs are made of!