Greenpeace Ice Camp Inventory

In order to create a liveable environment in harsh Arctic conditions, Greenpeace activists had to undergo careful preparations to ensure that they had the necessary equipment. In addition, the activists were particularly concerned with "stepping lightly on the earth," so it was essential to use renewable energy whenever possible. Following are the Greenpeace Ice Camp specifications.

The main shelters consist of 2 units: 15 feet wide, 20 feet long, 9 feet high (arched) (4.5 X 6 X 2.75 meters). They are made of 3 layers: a liner, one inch of insulation, and then a cover layer. This is stretched over a steel frame anchored to the ice, and rated to withstand 100 mph (160 kph) winds. Each is fitted with an "arctic entry," i.e., a foyer to control moisture and heat loss. The flooring is blue beadboard, covered by all-weather carpet.

One shelter is primarily for accomodation, and the other is divided into an office/communicationss work area, and a kitchen/dining area/common area.

Heat is provided by two electronically controlled super-efficient stoves which burn one litre of fuel per day maximum.

Power: primary power for charging the 8 gel cell battery bank is provided by wind generators: 5 "AIR 403" units producing 24 volts at a rating of 300 watts; 1 "Ampair" 24 volt/100 watt unit, and one "Aerogen 4" 12 volt unit with a rating of 100 watts. The batteries are rated for 190 amp/hours and will power an inverter which will provide mains power at 110 volts AC. The primary backup generator is a 5 KVA 3 cylinder diesel generator set, and the auxiliary generator is a 1000 watt portable gasoline powered unit. Once fully charged, the batteries should supply a two day reserve. If we’re lucky with the wind, we’ll never have to turn on the generators, other than for testing.

Communications: are provided by two satellite telephone/data connections, as well as conventional cell phones.

Transport: in addition to skis and snowshoes (and foot power) we have 2 Bombardier Skandic 380cc snow machines, and 1 Bombardier Skandic 500 cc wide track machine. Each machine has a dedicated sledge, primarily for carrying cargo.

Lighting: Primary lighting is provided by highly efficient compact fluorescent lights, as well as LED lights for some applications. Given the prevalence of darkness at these latitudes at this time of year, lighting will be one of our major power requirements.

Audio/Video/Photo equipment: is all digital, as space and the extreme conditions preclude the use of bulky camera gear, films, tapes, and developing chemicals. We are shooting digital video and photos, and all sound recording is digital as well.

Computers: all data communications as well as photo, video and sound editing is handled by three laptop computers.

Food: The provisions are designed to deliver approximately 3500 calories per person per day. The food is a mix of ordinary and freeze dried foods, chosen for their combination of high energy content and low weight. We have also allowed ourselves one luxury: an espresso maker!

Survival equipment: Travel in the Arctic requires that one be prepared to establish camp at any time on very short notice. Whenever traveling away from the camp, we will be carrying specialised polar survival gear, including tents and stoves.

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