Energy and water
“By 2020, the government would like all schools to be models of energy efficiency, renewable energy use and water management. They should take the lead in their communities by showcasing wind, solar and bio-fuel energy, low-energy equipment, freshwater conservation, use of rainwater and other measures.”
One of the most effective ways to approach this doorway is to conduct a thorough audit of energy and water usage and involve the whole school in working out ways to become more energy efficient and to monitor and reduce future consumption.
Top tips for sustainable energy and water usage
- Review resources by looking at fuel and water consumption.
- Delegate responsibility to a number of people to carry out an audit in different areas and look at ways of being more efficient.
- Get the whole school involved in thinking of energy saving ideas and ways of harvesting rainwater.
- Get students involved in setting up a committee that can develop a sustainability code for the school and a mission statement.
- Consider how you might communicate your vision beyond school. Think about holding a high profile event to show the wider community what you are trying to achieve.
- Focus on learning. Buy display energy meters so students can record data and monitor changes in energy use.
- Think globally by sharing ideas and projects with partner schools in other countries.
- Find out what other schools are doing and try to co-ordinate your aims.
Sustainable schools focusing on energy and water
