Earth Camp Commitment

My Earth Camp commitment is to start using the stairs in my apartment complex. I believe this is a good commitment because I already use low flow appliances in my house and recycle. This is also a great commitment because I live on the sixteenth floor of my building.

On the first day of earth camp, before we started doing all of the fun scientific activities, we watched a documentary, called No Impact Man. This documentary featured a man and his family who were attempting to go a whole year without using any energy or producing any waste. He conserved energy by not driving, not using the elevators in his building, and even shopping locally as to not use energy that is used in the transportation of brand name produce.

I will remember to use the stairs in a couple different ways. First of all, the door to the stairwells is right down the hall from our apartment and is actually closer than the elevator. Also, in order to operate the elevator you have to carry a key card that if lost costs fifty dollars to replace.

I believe that the best way to inspire others is to lead by example. This being said, I hope by the fulfilling of my Earth Camp commitment others will be inspired to change some parts of their life to be more eco-friendly.

There are two symbols that will help me execute and remind me of my commitment. First is the key card that allows me to use the elevator. I will no longer carry my key card in order to make sure I stick to my commitment. Second is my alarm clock. along with sacrificing personal leisure I will also have to start getting up earlier to make sure I have time to spare for running down the stairs.

Questions & Answers

What was your favorite activity and why?

I enjoyed a game we played on the first day called 'Planks'. In this game everyone has to start by standing on a plank in a random order. The point of the game is to finish in alphabetical order by your first name without getting of the plank and without talking. This activity builds resourcfulness by forcing the players to communicate non-verbally and also helps you learn the other people's names moving forward.

What did we do at camp that impressed you the most and why?

One of the things that surpised me about this camp was how fast the kids here would start to bond. Even by the end of the first day I had the feeling I would be close friends with some of the people I have just met.

Who inspired you the most during camp?

Jacob, my team leader, was my biggest inspiration throughout Earth Camp. He alway knew exactly how to inspire education and teamwork in all of us.