Generally defined, a resource is something that you use. Some like wind and solar are renewable and exist in nearly unlimited (or can be replenished in our lifetime) quantities. Others like coal or oil are non renewable and once they are used they're gone forever.

There is no question that our endeavors here are fairly resource intensive. While we lead a very meager life on the trail, the carbon foot print supporting our efforts is substantial. It is something we wrestle with every day Yes, we buy carbon off sets, but our main hope is that our efforts will do more good than harm.

While we slept, our small ice pan drifted south past 85 degrees - crossing number four. In the morning, we made our way north crossing 85 for the fifth and final (this I swear) time.

'Chaucey,' was how AJ described today's conditions. 'Frozen foaming waves of powder.' he clarified. Later navigating in a growing white out, AJ observed, 'there was no depth of field; therefore, something as simple as placing your foot on an incline can be very difficult.'

Overall we have worked well as a team; however, since our resupply our negative drift and heavy sleds have created some tension in our dynamics. We are worried about our ability to make the pole. One possibility is to try to get another resupply - not our initial plan and using more resources. We are all motivated individuals with different perspectives. Our styles are different as well. Coming to a consensus has not been easy and has added another layer of stress to all this mess.

Yet, this process has allowed us to come together closer as a team. We have all vowed to move forward, together, from this point now. We are a stronger, more understanding, group because of these challenges.

And hopefully, we'll wake up on the north side of 85. jm

Image: Darcy and AJ making their way through a partial white out.

The Save the Poles expedition is sponsored by Bing with major support from the University of Plymouth, Terra mar, Seventh Generation, Goal0, Atlas, Sierra Designs and Optic Nerve.

Remember, it's cool to be cold. Save the Poles. Save the planet.

For more information, please visit www.ericlarsenexplore.com

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