As an outdoor residential camp in the woods of Raymond, Maine, it only makes sense that we promote a sense of environmental awareness and responsibility within our campers. In our continuing efforts to make camp greener and minimize our environmental impact, we have taken the following steps:
Composting Program
We are very pleased that our composting program has grown so tremendously over the years. At every meal we place compost buckets for campers to put any of their compostable food or compostable plates and utensils in. Each day there is a cabin assigned to supervise composting and make sure that only compostable items are put in these buckets. Our kitchen staff also contribute by filling their own compost buckets with any trimmings from fruits or vegetables. Our maintenance department then empties all of these buckets on the compost pile. They also deposit all of the grass clippings, leaves, and other landscaping trimmings from camp onto the pile as well. They maintain these piles throughout the year and use the finished compost on our flower beds and in various other areas of camp.
Energy Conservation
As part of our effort to conserve energy, we have completely made the switch to using only energy-efficient light bulbs in all of our buildings. Campers are also reminded to turn off the lights when they leave their cabin and that is even something our campus heads check when they are conducting daily cabin inspections.
We have also begun to convert our older hot water heaters to tankless models, which are much more energy-efficient and effective.
Zero-Sort Recycling!
Last summer, we were very excited to introduce our new zero-sort recycling program. Now of all our recyclables materials (glass, paper, plastic, etc) can be combined in one container. Each cabin has has a recycling bin that they they empty into the zero-sort recycling bin.
In addition, our kitchen receives many shipments of food inside cardboard boxes. These boxes are broken down and placed in the recycling bin (or used for some awesome camp activities like making cardboard armor!). They also recycle all empty plastic food containers, cans, foil, plastic wrap, and egg crates.
As you can see, we have been working over the years to decrease our environmental impact and we look forward to taking further steps to continue our commitment to keeping KP green for years to come.
