Pledge for the Polar Bears

Vital Stats

Emily G

Louisville, KY

  • People Doing It0

The Problem

After returning from a life-altering leadership camp in the Arctic to study climate change, I knew that I had to do something to help with this crucial issue. Knowing about climate change is one thing; to see it up close and personal, with starving polar bears and a struggling ecosystem, is an true eye opener. I come home ready and compelled to do whatever it is to help change this problem that is facing our entire planet. Since I believe that change starts in your own backyard, I came up with a plan to educate and motivate my community in Louisville, Kentucky, about climate change.

Plan of Action

As I am their Arctic Ambassador, I asked the Louisville Zoo if I could attach my website to theirs. Because they are working hard to help the environment, they were happy to do this. I then started my multi-fold plan for getting the word out about my website and project. I set up booths at the Louisville Zoo. I have given talks to camps, Girl Scout troops, Boy Scout troops, school groups, and many adult groups in the area - over 1,000 people so far. I met with the Superintendant of the Jefferson County Public School System, and convinced him to make policy changes which will save 6 million pounds of CO2 emissions per year. I then went to the Mayor's office and convinced them to make changes that will save 2 million pounds of CO2 per year. Along with pledges from thousands of individuals and dozens of companies, I have pledges for almost 16 million pounds of CO2 reductions. Along with the pledges from my state, I also have pledges from almost 30 other states, and even some pledges from outside the U.S. It is my goal to reach as many people as possible, to change policy in local companies in their energy use, to educate as many groups and individuals as I can, and to continue this project indefinitely.