By: Arel Martinez, 12 years old
The following is a submission of one of our applicants to this year’s Chaa Creek Eco Kids Summer Camp.
Officially known as the Children’s Summer Camp Scholarship Program, the annual event gives 24 young Belizeans between the ages of 8 and 13 a chance to learn about their natural world through a mix of adventure, social interaction, fun and hands-on education aimed at instilling a sense of wonder and responsibility for the environment.
The Eco Kids are selected after submitting a 300 word written essay which is reviewed and shortlisted by the Chaa Creek scholarship committee with the winners going on to attend the summer camp.
Chaa Creek will be providing all lodging, three healthy meals and snacks each day, structured educational activities, arts and craft materials, tee shirts, 24-hour camp counselor supervision, and guided tours conducted by licensed naturalist guides.
Good luck potential Eco Kids!
I am, Eco Kid
I want to be an eco-kid because I care for my environment and caring for the present means protecting our future. As an eco-kid, I will protect my environment so that a change in the way we live may start to take place. Belize is full of nature; it is like a little paradise in the heart of Central America. At nights when I go outside my house, I enjoy feeling the cool breeze given by the many trees as they dance and wave under the moonlight. It is a wonderful experience living in a natural, peaceful environment.
It causes me great disappointment when I see that people are cutting down trees and destroying our animal’s habitats. As a result of this, many species are becoming extinct. Moreover, people fail to realize that trees help to reduce the greenhouse effect because they capture carbon dioxide that causes damage to the atmosphere. Trees are also important since they provide oxygen that is needed for life. Last but not least, many plants are used as medicine to cure illnesses.
I am so proud because at our school we planted some plants that remind us how very important they are for us. The teachers also came up with an extraordinary idea to clean up some areas in our village. I felt so good doing these activities, which further encouraged me to become an eco-kid. I want to be an example for others by keeping my environment clean. My aim is to encourage other kids to reduce, reuse and recycle. I am confident that if I dedicate myself to being an eco-kid, I can literally make a change in my environment by impacting other kids.
We will not be here forever, but if we don’t take care of the environment, it will affect our future generation. We need to appreciate the natural beauty found in our beloved country, Belize. I want to do my best at protecting my environment so that Belize can remain a precious jewel in the Caribbean. Let us all go green for our beloved Belize – Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret!