Working the base of the pyramid

I spent a couple of hours today at the Fifth Ward Enrichment Program Teen Center. They've added an environmental component to their summer program that gives at-risk-youth life skills and role models.

What impressed me was the level of awareness these boys had about climate change, global warming and the economic instability we're now facing in America. What was also apparent is that few resources or media messages are being aimed at the young people in our country. I find this a bit ironic as they are the ones who will be much more impacted by what we do (or don't do!) than my generation.

When I asked if the boys either had asthma or know of someone who has asthma, every single hand in the room went up. Houston has some of the country's worst air quality. Ozone alerts are constant throughout the summer. Weather report includes air particulate counts -- so what do we actually find in Houston air? Small and large particulates and ozone are part of every 5 day forecast.

Awareness of water conservation and energy issues was also extremely high. These boys, like the rest of us have a great deal of anxiety about the future and are looking for things that they can do individually and with their families. Simple things like saving water, turning up the thermostat, turning off lights are things they can do immediately. Being thoughtful about using energy is something that will take a little more time -- empowerment takes time.

I will return to the Fifth Ward Program in two weeks -- having received questions from the boys and I plan to encourage them to give me the answers...they all have the ability to make contributions to the discussion and act to Save and Protect Community Earth which is the name of their environmental program.