It has come to the attention of the environment committee of We Stand Together that the article headlined “Commission Requires Santander Bank to Replace Roof Tiles,” does not mention the environmental harm that procedures like these can cause. While the terra-cotta shingles are longer lasting and therefore better for the environment, the removal of the asphalt shingles highlights many of the worst aspects of our society in relation to the environment. Both the asphalt shingles and the soon-to-arrive terra-cotta tiles required fossil fuels in order to be manufactured, shipped and placed on the building. This gross overconsumption is one of the many factors of human-caused climate change. There is also no explanation of the disposal process whereby the original shingling will be taken off. The asphalt shingles will most likely be thrown away, causing both pollution and highlighting a lack of recycling that causes unnecessary consumption to be perpetrated.

We urge the Martha’s Vineyard Commission to find a better way to handle these sorts of large errors because of the environmental damage that ensues. Ideally, the mistake won’t be made, but if it is, the commission should take steps to ensure the proper recycling of the original products. Better yet, rather than closing the barn door after the horse has escaped, let’s not only minimize waste and leave the shingles as is, but let’s make history — put up solar panels. After all, if we don’t make changes, there will be no one around to enjoy the preserved roof.

Keith Chatinover
Edgartown