Take Action on Climate Change at Hillcrest

(Did you know that “over 70 percent of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions comes from operating buildings?”* And, with over 1,500 school buildings taking up over 135 million square feet, that is a lot of energy use!)

The Energy Climate Action Day will be a full-day event at Hillcrest where it is suggested that teachers/staff participate in “Lights Out Day” using natural light to conserve energy instead of artificial light. And, to show unity and make more of a statement, let us all wear black.

This is a voluntary event. Some teachers may participate, and others may not. 

Students can participate in “Lights Out Day,” too, by wearing all black. Also, at home you can conserve energy by using natural light instead of artificial light and turning off the lights when you leave a room.

 According to the 2017 Waste Categorization Study, 86% of school waste can be diverted from landfills. (i.e. 51% of materials can be used for composting. 35% of materials are recyclable.) 

Did you know that by March of 2024, all New York City public schools will have daily curbside composting? Every school will be required to separate all food scraps and compostable materials from all other trash. Our school is designated to receive compost bins by January 8, 2024.

Our school’s cafeteria is set up where students can take what they want versus cafeteria staff serving lunch that students might not want which limits food waste. The DOE Office of Energy & Sustainability has put together lesson plans regarding landfill waste, food waste, fabric waste, and e-waste. On Wednesday, February 7, students can learn more about waste and its effect on the environment in their advisory class and other subject classes.