The Sandspur

Issue date: 9/4/06 Section: Life & Times

Media Credit: Sara Shaw Scott Bitikofer from Facilities Management stands next to a mock-up of the future

Planet Earth has evolved vastly over time. Unfortunately, along with this evolution also comes the progression of pollution. Eco-Rollins, the Environmental Club at Rollins, has made tremendous growth in the past couple years in keeping Rollins current with the latest ways of respecting and conserving mother nature. Their goal is to educate the campus, motivate others to take action and step up environmental awareness.

"Our biggest accomplishment has been the approving and financing of the Solar panels," Sara Shaw, President of Eco-Rollins, '07, said. The introduction of this new economical source of power is a milestone for Rollins.

This alternative energy source is more efficient by directly converting sunlight into the form of electricity, without the use of fuel. It is also easier to maintain. A two-kilowatt system will placed on top of Bush Science center. Students will be able to choose the make and model of the solar panels, as well as helping install and construct them. In the future, a display on the solar panels will be made giving students taking environmental or physics classes in Bush Science Center the opportunity to learn about this new form of energy.

Another progression Eco-Rollins has made already this year is the further organization of making it easier for students to recycle. For example, instead of distributing the blue recycling trash bins at orientation, which caused chaos and confusion, the bins were already placed in the dorm rooms with instructions on how to use them before the freshman got to their rooms.

"I was instantly comforted upon finding the recycling trash can waiting for me in my room," freshman Justin Waldman reports, "I right away felt at home."

"The recycling program has had its ups and downs, but it has really improved," Shaw said, "We have greatly increased our student awareness and involvement." The student involvement fair was definitely a success, as many freshmen showed their interest.

Meetings will be held on Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. at the Beal Building, also known as the environmental studies building, located next to the bookstore. These meetings will be weekly continuing through the school year.

There are many fun activities to look forward to, especially Earth day on April 22nd!

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