Did you know that October is Energy Awareness Month? Energy initiatives can be a great way to rally members of a school community around a common sustainability goal – to save energy. Check out this roundup of blog posts and Green Schools Catalyst Quarterly articles that include tips, strategies, and resources for pursuing zero-energy schools, using the school building to teach about energy, and engaging students in authentic learning experiences involving energy and energy efficiency.
Pursuing Zero-Energy Schools
A zero-energy school is the ultimate goal for every healthy, equitable, and sustainable school. Two keys to achieving net-zero energy are to start small and engage the whole school community. Adding green roofs and solar panels and conducting routine energy audits are some of the ways in which schools have started down the net-zero path. The following articles discuss additional energy efficiency initiatives and the benefits of net-zero energy and introduce you to some schools and school districts already walking the net-zero path.
- 100% Clean Energy School Districts: A Growing Movement
- Zero Energy – Coming Soon to a School Near You
- From Efficiency to Solar to Zero Energy
Using the School Building to Teach About Energy
School buildings can be powerful tools for educators looking to incorporate real-life lessons on energy and energy efficiency in their curriculum. The following articles highlight some of the ways in which educators are using school design and energy efficiency features to teach energy concepts and engage students in energy conservation measures.
- Sprint to Savings Connects Energy Efficiency, Building Operations, and Learning
- Engaging Authentic Place-Based Learning While Implementing a Zero-Net Energy Strategy
- Discovery Elementary: A 3D Textbook Comes to Life
Engaging Students in Real-World, Energy Efficiency Projects
Involving students in energy initiatives is critical in fostering sustainability mindsets. Hands-on learning in and outside the classroom fosters a deeper understanding of energy use and conservation. The following articles highlight some of the ways in which students are tackling energy efficiency at their schools through real-world, place-based projects.
- Data, Analysis, Action! Vermont Students Make a Difference with the Green School Energy Challenge
- Student-Driven Solar: How West Bloomfield High School Students Powered Their Science Department with Solar Electricity
- Energy Solutions from Nature: Emulating the Vespa orientalis to Increase Efficiency of Solar Energy Output
Want to learn what other schools and districts are doing to save energy? When you become a Green Schools National Network (GSNN) member, you can connect with like-minded peers in our exclusive member center to discuss all things energy – from student-led energy audits and data dashboards to challenges encountered on the path to net-zero energy.
