Green School Initiatives Essay Example

reveal that green school construction costs less than two percent more than conventional schools, and the direct and indirect financial savings to the school and community were around $70 per square foot. Additionally, on average, green schools consume 33% less energy than conventional schools and reduce average water usage by 32%.

Thanks to the green design implemented by the school, including a water storage system, the city of Dedham, MA acknowledged the improvement as worth $400,000. The highly reflective green roofs in place can typically last 30-50 years or more. Across five different buildings, there was an average decrease of 38.5% in asthma cases attributed to better air quality.

Holguin (2004) states that asthma rates worldwide are increasing by 20-50% every ten years. Some schools choose to implement environmentally-friendly practices, such as building green, for various reasons - one of which is the desire to provide a healthy, productive and comfortable environment for both students and staff (Lafee, 2010). By adopting green methods, schools can achieve cleaner air which could lead to a reduction in student absenteeism - particularly beneficial for those with respiratory issues. Alongside energy conservation efforts, many institutions are starting to incorporate solar panels as an alternative means of generating clean energy.

The use of solar panels offers numerous benefits in terms of economics, health, environment, and finances as stated in What Are the Benefits of Solar Power? (2010). Schools can enjoy cost savings on electricity bills through the utilization of solar panels while reducing air pollution. Additionally, only one yearly cleaning is required for solar panels instead of monthly cleanings.

Solar energy panels offer a solution to the dangerous emissions produced by fuels like

kerosene and gasoline, resulting in cleaner indoor air and a reduction in respiratory issues. The use of solar energy panels, which does not release carbon monoxide, further enhances air quality. Additionally, integrating solar panels into school buildings allows students to learn about the importance of sustainable architecture and renewable energy sources (Solar Energy Finally…, 2010). Moreover, by installing wind turbines on school grounds, we can also bring additional benefits to the school through the utilization of wind power.

The implementation of wind power, similar to solar panels, can decrease a school's electrical expenses and offer tax benefits. Additionally, it can enhance student education in science, math, and civic classes. The Wind for Schools Project strives to introduce small wind turbines to rural elementary and secondary schools while also establishing Wind Application Centers at higher education institutions. This initiative allows schools to gain knowledge about the various benefits of utilizing wind power.

Many schools are adopting eco-friendly practices by introducing recycling initiatives for students to dispose of their empty plastic milk and beverage containers after lunch. This involves placing recycling bins in school cafeterias, which encourages students to use them instead of simply throwing their containers away. The benefits of this approach are manifold and include resource conservation, environmental protection, cost savings on waste disposal, the establishment of a viable recycling program volume, and teaching children about social responsibility (Why Recycle Plastic Milk and Beverage Bottles?, 2010). Additionally, recycling plastic beverage containers can help reduce odors and leaks since they come with caps that students are encouraged to replace once they have emptied them.

Recycling Plastic Milk Bottles At School (2010) states that plastic beverage bottles, including milk,

soda, water and juice containers, as well as aluminum cans are recyclable. While the degree to which schools engage in recycling is dependent on their district, most are enthusiastic about the idea and ready to make any required preparations.

Engaging students in the process of going green can enhance their understanding. When students feel included, they are more driven to participate. Additionally, eco-friendly schools offer advantages that may not be immediately apparent; they can act as educational tools for students.

One idea is to install solar panels at schools to utilize renewable energy. Another possibility is to study local ecosystems by using a wetland. Additionally, organic vegetables could be grown for elementary school students to eat during lunchtime.

Students are given a complete green experience in their art classes, as they incorporate eco-friendly concepts by utilizing natural materials instead of recyclable ones. They can create projects using leaves, sticks, sand or other outdoor objects to promote environmental responsibility while enjoying themselves. According to Kauffman (2009), there are numerous techniques for producing artwork with found objects, and those who incorporate natural items are more likely to feel inspired.

Using natural materials for art in schools is a great way to save money and encourage creativity, especially among younger students. Some elementary schools have even embraced "garbage art," which involves using unconventional items like beans, rice, buttons, fabric, string, dry pasta, yogurt, dryer lint, and pencil shavings to make one-of-a-kind projects.

Pedersen (2010) states that younger students may prefer this type of art over others. Additionally, "green building" in schools offers a chance to enhance the well-being of students, teachers, and the community while also producing cost savings for both the school

and surrounding city.

The growth of green initiatives and design is beneficial for the environment globally and the country. (www.greenschoolbuildings.org) When students are involved, their morale improves, leading to an increased desire to learn. Moreover, environmentally conscious schools benefit as their students implement their knowledge of helping the environment. Going green positively impacts student health beyond clean air.

Green buildings have numerous benefits for education. Cleaner air improves test scores and teacher retention, while proper acoustics give teachers greater control over the classroom environment. Students benefit from natural daylight exposure, which enhances their performance and lessens the risk of seasonal depression. Additionally, implementing softer lighting in classrooms can reduce headaches caused by poor lighting conditions, preventing eye strain and making it easier to read. By choosing to adopt sustainable lighting practices, schools can create a more comfortable and productive learning environment for students.

Aside from the advantages for children and staff, implementing daylight use, energy reduction, and water recycling leads to operational cost savings. Pursuing environmentally sustainable solutions for building repairs, upgrades, and system replacements helps to curb utility expenses in the long run. (www.greenschoolbuildings)

As per information from www.org, green schools do not have higher operating costs compared to conventional schools. This is because they use water and energy more efficiently, which leads to significantly reduced operating costs. Additionally, a green school can save up to $100,000 annually in indirect costs. If all schools were constructed or renovated with green technology, it is predicted that a total of $20 billion could be saved over the next decade.

According to Greenschoolbuildings.org, schools are taking steps to become more environmentally friendly. These actions include teaming up with recycling brokers

to recycle glass, plastic and paper, repurposing old cardboard boxes as art supplies, implementing "IT Green" practices like putting computers on standby when not in use and scanning copies instead of printing them, and transitioning to low voltage IT servers. A prime example is the University of Buffalo's Center for Computational Research which has installed energy-efficient supercomputer servers that save $150,000 annually. Additionally, organizations such as "Go Green Initiative.org" provide support to schools by training staff on green teaching methods for students.

Assisting with grant procurement for schools, providing quarterly progress updates, and offering tools to track and measure green savings are just a few of the ways that going green benefits educational institutions. In addition to environmental and financial advantages, one of the most significant benefits is the opportunity to teach the next generation about better living practices and creating a better world. The lessons learned during childhood about living sustainably will shape values and guide moral decisions throughout adulthood, making this investment in education particularly valuable.

Problem Components/Root Problem – Mandy ; Kate

Although some green initiatives, such as water or material recycling, only require minimal investment, construction projects can be much more expensive. When attempting to make a school more eco-friendly, whether renovating an existing building or building a new one, it is important to consider the overall cost rather than just individual expenses. However, many communities do not have the extra funds available to invest in such ventures, particularly during lean times like these. As a result, a common obstacle to green projects is the high initial cost. Numerous environmentally friendly projects have failed over the years due to the prohibitive expense required at

the outset.

Some groups argue that the government should assist in initiating green building projects to reduce the initial costs. However, as green building becomes more frequent and supplies become more available, the expenses are decreasing. In actuality, transitioning to sustainable building methods is comparable in cost to continuing conventional methods. Although, it may require creative thinking and effective planning. The main challenge in terms of cost arises when schools are renovating existing buildings.

King (2010) notes that building green schools is slightly more expensive, ranging from 1% to 2%, compared to traditional schools. However, bureaucratic obstacles such as permits and zoning requirements imposed by planning commissions, school boards, or other government agencies can hinder the process of going green when constructing a new school, as highlighted by Kennedy (2010). The extent to which a school can adopt environmentally-friendly practices depends greatly on funding. With sufficient funds, a school can invest in energy-efficient lighting and air ducts, but lack of funding can impede efforts to make a school more eco-friendly.

Insufficient support for green initiatives in schools presents a major challenge. King (2010) notes that America's public education system doesn't furnish the necessary tools and authority to enable communities, parents, and teachers to provide top-notch educational experiences for children. Without sufficient resources, eco-friendly enhancements made to schools will not have the desired impact. Additionally, in some areas of the country, incorporating sustainable design features into building projects does not create additional financial strain during bidding processes; instead it offers multiple long-term financial benefits such as lower energy costs and operational expenses, better health outcomes, and more affordable insurance rates.

The US Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and

Environmental Design (LEED), found at www.eda.gov, establishes green initiative standards. LEED evaluates projects according to material sourcing and use, as well as system design, construction, and efficiency in regards to water, energy, air quality, lighting, acoustics, waste, and transportation.

(www.ecoliteracy.org) Miranda and Kate discuss the process of generating and evaluating alternatives for schools, which is similar to any other large project. They note that schools must determine what best suits their specific needs through the development of implementation plans based on both needs and monetary ability.

One option for schools to adopt eco-friendly practices is by making gradual changes. Due to limited funding, it may not be possible for all schools to make immediate and necessary changes. Therefore, schools can choose to take green initiatives independently with low investment. They can analyze areas where changes can be made and take steps such as recycling and reusing bottles, paper, glass, and plastics. Additionally, building a rainwater catch system can help in water reuse.

By estimating cost savings to the school and environment, children can learn about the concepts of recycling and reuse. Schools can address low initiatives on their own and invest in larger improvements such as low voltage servers, scheduled modes for electrical output, and "low power" usage computers on standby mode. Although this option requires a higher initial investment, it provides a greater return in the form of cost savings.

- Schools have the option to independently address medium initial investment items and renovations to existing structures, such as installing solar panels or constructing new buildings, which can bring significant cost savings and have a great impact on the student's environment and green experience. However, there is

a high initial investment required for these green initiatives.
- Alternatively, schools can receive assistance from organizations like the "Go Green Initiative" to implement their green initiatives from start to finish. This allows schools to utilize the resources and expertise of established organizations instead of learning through their own experience. These initiatives also provide communication with other schools about their green projects, educate school staff on green methods, offer information on green building, and provide data tracking and community education. Schools have the flexibility to make changes at any desired level according to their own time schedule.

Chosen Alternative – Tomika ; Kate advocate for a High initial investment – green initiatives taken on with assistance option as the best way to benefit schools and the environment. They suggest that schools can receive free assistance from various organizations, and that initiatives need not begin as high investment projects. Instead, schools can make small changes, such as recycling and using cost savings to fund student activities. Additionally, energy waste can be reduced by conserving water and turning off computers when not in use. Representatives from organizations like the Go Green Initiative can assist in communicating the rationale behind these actions to the community.

If the school explains how green changes can lead to long-term profitability, it is more likely that the community will be receptive to additional green initiatives that result in short-term savings. Open communication and community support are vital for successfully implementing change in public facilities. Seeking help from external sources provides access to data from similar schools that have undergone comparable changes, which can measure green savings and environmental benefits. This motivation can enhance the

school's appeal to potential new families and inspire entire communities.

Tomika & Kate have devised a plan for implementation that consists of multiple steps. Their first recommendation is to identify the goals and aspirations of the school. Next, they suggest engaging with both the school board and community members to solicit ideas, apprehensions, and possible contributions towards a project. Lastly, they suggest reaching out to various organizations such as "Go Green Initiative" to acquire information that can be presented to the board.

Consider various organizations when meeting with your board and community, and select one to collaborate with. Additionally, communicate your objectives, budget constraints, and specifications to the chosen organization. Request suggestions for implementing immediate improvements that generate short-term returns on investment and enhance the school environment.

The school board, superintendent, and any interested party should hold a training session and meeting to review all aspects. During this meeting, establish specific, measurable, attainable, and timely six-month goals. Determine the responsible party for data collection and implemented programs.

After a period of six months, data should be acquired and progress should be evaluated. Moving forward, another option is available through Tomika. This would involve schools taking on the responsibility of managing their own projects, starting with small ones. They would conduct their own research and consult with neighboring schools to see which eco-friendly strategies have been effective for them.

Although the chosen alternative would require the schools to carry out more of the necessary tasks, such as discovering eco-friendly materials and contractors and evaluating viable substitutes, it is achievable. It could be a tougher task to procure the information, but it remains possible. There could be individuals within the local

community who possess the necessary knowledge to aid schools in achieving their environmentally-friendly endeavors.

In starting to address environmental issues in schools, any changes made are significant. Alicia emphasizes the importance of going green for both the future of children and the planet. Implementing a green system within schools is the ideal approach to educating students on the importance of energy preservation, environmental conservation, and financial savings. This enables practical learning and living of green practices in tandem.

Given the current state of low funding in schools, it is crucial to have the opportunity to start with small adjustments and gradually work towards bigger changes. Effective communication within a community is also essential in achieving a shared objective, while seeking external support can greatly aid in improving the community.