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Decreasing our
Carbon Footprint
The American Youth
Foundation is committed to leading an effort toward sustainability and
understanding of global environmental concerns as we work to educate young
people. We conducted an in-depth assessment of our Carbon Footprint in order to
determine a baseline for decreasing our output of carbon and striving for an
annual reduction goal of 5%.
Renewable Energy at
Merrowvista
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Grid tied photovoltaic panels will offset much of
the annual electricity demand of the Farmhouse building and will reduce
the carbon footprint for purchased electricity.
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Hot water solar collectors provide all domestic
water heating as well as back-up space heating during the winter season.
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Sustainability in our Food
Program
Moving forward, the AYF has initiated an
effort to make our dining halls more than just the place where our kids eat. It
will be a classroom, demonstration space, focus of recycling/composting efforts
and the one place where all staff and participants assemble on a regular basis
to share information while enjoying the efforts of our Food Program Team.
Within the AYF Food Program we have
taken steps to:
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Buy foods locally. This year we will be purchasing
our bread products from a local bakery within ten miles of Camp Miniwanca.
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In partnership with our local farmers we are aiming to
acquire local produce whilst it is in season, we are establishing a working
relationship to pinpoint what foodstuffs we can utilize.
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Reduce the use of packaging in products we buy, buying in
bulk rather than packages aimed at individual use.
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Improve recycling systems within kitchens and dining
rooms, involving participants in a systematic approach to minimizing our
Carbon Footprint.
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Use compostable napkins and hand towels.
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Prepare and serve more whole foods and meals made fresh
daily.
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Invest in equipment which is required to fulfill the Food
Programs vision.
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Teach staff and participants about energy efficiency,
recycling and composting.
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