Centralight

I am Central: Sarah Lillian Teeple Junior Outdoor Recreation major, Natural Resources minor When did you become passionate about sustainable practices? I have always seen the Earth and nature as important. But it really hit home when I worked in a hoop house in the Upper Peninsula near my reservation in Bay Mills. I did research on growing seasons in the area. We grew tons of various vegetables, and then harvested, washed and gave "green bags" fi lled with fresh salad supplies to the elderly food program. We grew so much that bags were delivered daily. I saw how much the Earth gives when we are educated about it and we respect it. Who inspired your appreciation for nature? It was not one person. My Native American heritage has shaped the way I view the world. It creates an appreciation and respect for the earth and all the animals, plants and systems within it. Whether or not we understand it, everything on this world has a purpose. How do you get your message out? Chief Seattle said, "The Earth does not belong to us, we belong to Earth." I want people to know the earth is a fi nite resource. Even though we may become overwhelmed when we consider the damage being done to the Earth, each and every one of us can make a diff erence. What are you working on? One of my CMU professors and I are looking for ways to bring sustainable practices to my reservation. We are looking into grant writing to fund a windmill, and I am planning on holding educational sessions about ways to incorporate sustainable practices into everyday life – like a reservation-wide recycling program. What are some of those little everyday things that you do? I leave the water off while I brush my teeth to conserve water. I unplug appliances when I'm not using them. And I choose to ride my bike over driving often. It's better for the earth, my budget and it's faster than trying to fi nd a parking spot. • 40 centralight summer '12

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