Saving Energy

Ideas for getting started: 

• In class, discuss all the ways energy can be reduced. 
• If air conditioning is used, keep classroom doors and windows closed. 
• Install LED lights, ceiling fans and solar panels in the school if possible. 
• Using thermometers to monitor the inside temperature and regulating temperature as much as possible by passive means – curtains, opening windows. 
• Use a Classroom Shutdown Checklist to make sure electrical appliances and lights are turned off when not needed. 
• Communicate ways to save energy and progress made to the school community via class visits, assemblies, newsletters, students pod casts and videos on social media. 

Examples in schools around the world

The following list of schools features examples of sustainability practices which are part of school programs around the world.

Generally, these schools aim to achieve a Whole School Approach; the school community integrating sustainability into their daily programs and school life.

These examples highlight some of the outstanding but achievable practices. Projects do not have to be on a large scale to be effective.  

Fiji: Navotua Infants Primary School

With a grant from its Time Foundation, the school installed solar panels.

Sri Lanka: Mailapitiya School

In 2016, two classrooms at the school were rebuilt to an environmentally sustainable design.

United Kingdom: St Luke's CE Primary School

The student Eco team plans programs each term to reduce energy across the school.

Northern Ireland: Holy Trinity College

This school has an Eco Team consisting of 12 students called the “Eco-Warriors”.

Australia: St Francis of Assisi Primary School

To deal with very extreme temperatures especially summer, the school’s buildings are made of rammed earth for insulation.