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By implementing just a few of the following suggestions your school can improve its energy use and provide a more environmentally friendly working and learning environment for staff and students: Simple passive solar techniques such as maximising the sunlight that shines into classrooms by rearranging desks and furniture around windows or installing skylights to reduce the need for lighting; Growing climbing plants up structures alongside classrooms which receive full summer sun to reduce the need for air-conditioning; Adjusting air conditioner and heater thermostats, installing timer controls for lights and other electrical appliances, cleaning filters and fans, fixing leaks and removing drafts will all provide savings on energy bills;
Establishing an organic vegetable garden as part of the curriculum. This will encourage children to grow food at their own homes, understand the concept of food miles and the impact of conventional fertilisers on the health of the environment. Students may also be interested in establishing worm farms or compost heaps to feed the garden and recycle their own food waste; Convert incandescent globes to more energy efficient lights such as compact fluorescent lights. This alone can provide up to 70% in energy savings. Where the opportunity arises also consider longer term investments in solar and other renewable power sources, rainwater tanks and waterless urinals. Modern low energy intensive appliances such as heating and cooling systems and low flow water fixtures will also contribute to a greener school community.
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