Energy Efficiency & Conservation

Green Schools Challenge Activities:

STE(A)M Activity - Energy by Design: Planning a Solar-Powered Campus

CREATE YOUR OWN - Submit Lesson Plan here   or utilize a previous lesson created by DIG from our Lesson Library.

Points for participation will be based on a rubric. Download here.

Energy Efficiency & Conservation Activity Submission Form Click Here.

What's the problem?

As the global population grows exponentially, the demand for energy has grown alongside it. Due to our extreme reliance on fossil fuels across the globe, most of this energy comes from non-renewable resources such as coal, petroleum, and natural gasses. These, alongside other non-renewables, emit greenhouse gasses which trap heat within our atmosphere and are the root cause of climate change. Now, all of these non-renewables can be replaced with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric power that are not as damaging to the ecosystem. However, they are not as commonly used due to issues such as high implementation costs, as well as behavioral challenges such as resistance to change or lack of awareness. If we don't change our ways and act now, we will deplete our precious limited resources alongside causing irreparable damage to our environment. 

Why should we care?

Doing our part as a society to prioritize clean energy and energy efficiency helps to. While the amount of energy which comes from renewable resources has increased in recent years, it still only produces around 35% of the world's energy, meaning that the other 65-70% still comes from heavily polluting non-renewables. By using less energy for tasks, as well as using renewable resources instead of non-renewables, saves homes and businesses money, improves health, conserves our limited natural resources, and supports new jobs and economic growth while still meeting energy demands, just more sustainably.

What can we do?

Individuals can start with the easy stuff such as converting the lights in your home to energy saving LED bulbs, turning off lights and appliances when not in use or not needed, and making sure your lights and appliances follow the ENERGY STAR program guidelines, which helps to identify appliances that meet strict energy saving criteria. Then, if you have the means to, implement energy saving tactics into your home such as making sure that your home is properly insulated and sealed to prevent energy loss, convert your homes power supply to solar or another renewable energy source, and practice energy efficient landscaping, such as xeriscaping, to reduce your homes energy consumption. However, the most important part of this is education and advocacy. Make sure to educate yourself and your community on the aspects of energy, and make sure to try your best to advocate for clean energy use within your community.