Post on 30-Dec-2015
description
Green Schools
Eugene C. Cordero
Department of Meteorology
San Jose State UniversityOutline Global warming: Current status Solutions Greening your school, steps forward
Earth – Our Planet
Human Activities Can Intensify The Greenhouse Effect
Transportation
Utilities
Industry Source: U.S. EPA State and Local Climate Change Outreach Kit, March 2000
CO2 over the last 1000 yearsToday
Temperature: the last 125 years
`
Svalbard, ,
Norway (79ºN)
Northern Alaska
Temperature through to 2100
3-10ºF warmer
California‘s Temperature Forecast
Sierra Snowpack: The Future
Solutions
Prudence
Foresight (or wisdom) that leads
to the avoidance of danger or error.
The Design of Effective Solutions
GovernmentEmission
targets/regulations
TechnologyAdvances/
innovations
EducationSociety’s awareness of
personal connection
We know that what causesWe know that what causesglobal warmingglobal warming
But sometimes it’s harder to But sometimes it’s harder to see…see…
Green Schools
Local solutions that
inspire and educate
– Pollution and greenhouse gas reductions
» Bike/walk to school
» Energy efficiency
– Recycling and reducing waste
» Zero Waste, Gardens and Compost
– Develop green guidelines for the school
» Incorporate existing environmental programs into curriculum.
Walking and biking to school…
– Promote healthy and active lifestyle
– Use resources from national Safe Routes to Schools
– Help promote community
Promoting energy efficiency– Energy efficient classrooms
» Lighting, computers etc.
– Increase use of renewable energy
Reducing waste– Establish a commitment towards ‘Zero Waste’
» recycling centers and reduction of paper use
» Work towards eliminating styrofoam/plastic from school
» Develop educational experience around gardens (compost)
Challenges and opportunities
– Financial» Green solutions often cost more initially…but may
save money in long run.– Use creative solutions to fund projects
» Campaign for “Styrofoam-Free School” » Campaign for solar installation» Campaign to develop edible garden
– Consider educational value
Solutions make sense, create community and enrich our children’s lives
Children are our future Champions are needed!!