Jordan Jones, Contributing Writer

January 3, 2009 by Jordan Jones
Filed under Environmental Canon, Jordan Jones

Blue Planet Green Living is pleased to introduce Jordan Jones, who will be writing periodic book reviews in a column he calls the “Environmental Canon.” — Julia Wasson, Publisher

The “Environmental Canon” will be dedicated to examining the major and minor texts of environmentalism. We will explore the various books that have had an important impact on environmentalism, as well as the books that deserve to. My aim is to create a sort of informal catalog of the “great books” of the environmental movement, to examine their influence, history, and artistry.

The idea for this project came about from my own need to educate myself on these issues, which I feel to be the most serious crises facing humanity in our time. At the same time, I also had a desire to get involved in the conversation, to teach others and to learn from them. I hope to review a wide array of books, and I am always open to suggestion. After all, I’m learning right along with everyone else.

I am 23 years old and full of that empathetic enthusiasm so common to youth. Originally from Des Moines, I attended the University of Iowa from 2004 to 2008, graduating last spring with degrees in English and History. After graduation, I joined AmeriCorps and got a job at the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity affiliate, building houses for those in need. Sometimes I work in the Habitat ReStore, a shop that sells discount building materials and furniture. I love my job and I learn new things literally every day.

As I get older, I find myself increasingly interested in the world around me and what I can do to improve it. I will admit that I am by no means an environmental expert. But in place of technical knowledge, I bring a sense of curiosity, urgency, and an abiding belief in the need to nurture and protect the natural world. I look forward to educating others (as well as myself) and to advancing the cause of environmentalism, which, in essence, is a form of humanitarianism.

I currently reside in Iowa City and spend my free time reading, writing, and watching movies. I also just became a vegetarian, so I’ve begun to get a little creative with my cooking. You’ll usually find me hunched over a book at a coffee shop, pretending I’m still a student.

Jordan Jones (Top of Page)

Contributing Writer

Blue Planet Green Living