Green Practice Assessment
by
George O’Loughlin & Kelly Green
Smashwords Edition
Copyright 2009 George O’Loughlin & Kelly Green
This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
The information presented herein represents the view of the view of the author as of the date of publication. Because of the rate with which conditions change, the author reserves the right to alter and update his opinion based on new conditions. The eBook is for informational purposes only.
While every attempt has been made to verify the information provided in this eBook, neither the author nor his affiliates/partners assume any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. Any slights of people or organizations are unintentional. If advice concerning legal or related matters is needed, the services of a fully qualified professional should be sought.
This eBook is not intended for use as a source of legal or accounting advice. You should be aware of any laws that govern business transactions or other business practices in your country or state. Any reference to any person or business, whether living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Welcome to the Green Practice Assessment.
As you read the following there is no doubt that there will a lot of material you have seen before, but there will also be a lot material you have not, and a lot of resources you can refer back to at your convenience. You will not be quizzed on any of the following, but it makes sense that you should know as much as possible. After all, you never want your clients to know more than you do.
Good luck!
The Earth Savers Team & Green Earth Corporate Kindness
The information presented herein represents the view of the view of the author as of the date of publication. Because of the rate with which conditions change, the author reserves the right to alter and update his opinion based on new conditions. The eBook is for informational purposes only.
While every attempt has been made to verify the information provided in this eBook, neither the author nor his affiliates/partners assume any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. Any slights of people or organizations are unintentional. If advice concerning legal or related matters is needed, the services of a fully qualified professional should be sought.
This eBook is not intended for use as a source of legal or accounting advice. You should be aware of any laws that govern business transactions or other business practices in your country or state. Any reference to any personal or business, whether living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Appliances
Question:
Do you leave appliances on standby?
Why is this question asked?
Millions of tons of greenhouse gases are pumped into the atmosphere every year by appliances left on standby, so it’s obvious to see where energy savings can be made. Switching off appliances at the mains and not on standby would save enough energy to power millions of homes for a year.
Eco Action Plan:
Make it a habit at the end of the day to check that you’ve taken the plugs out on big appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, right down to mobile phone and MP3 player chargers. It all makes a difference, but 71% of us admit to forgetting to switch off.
Resource:
Question:
Do you own/use energy efficient appliances?
Why is this question asked?
Energy efficient appliances including fridges, freezers, washing machines, tumble dryers and boilers that carry an energy efficient logo will cost less to run by saving energy, without necessarily being more expensive to purchase.
Eco Action Plan:
Replace your old appliances with those carrying a logo that indicates that the item meets the requirements to be energy efficient.
Question:
Do you reuse or recycle old appliances?
Why is this question asked?
Many electrical retailers willingly offer recycling services for old electrical equipment. Otherwise, it’s up to you to dispose of your unwanted or broken appliances yourself, so make sure you do it the green way.
Eco Action Plan:
If possible, reuse or recycle your goods rather than throwing them away, even if they’re damaged or broken. Check if your local area has recycling facilities for electrical items. If it’s still in working order, then your appliance could find a good home with someone else.
Donate them to your local charity shop or try free-cycling.
Audits, Inspections, & Tests
Question:
Do you conduct your own audits, inspections, and tests or do you hire professionals?
Why is this question asked?
Sometimes you need to hire a professional to conduct important audits, inspections, and tests for you.
Eco Action Plan:
Calculate Your Buildings Energy Use. eere.energy.gov/calculators
Conduct on-site lighting audit. kilojolts
Contact your local solid waste utility or state environmental agency for advice and information about finding qualified waste auditors. environmentalwasteauditors
Have a Test for Radon done. epa.gov/radon
Have a general mold inspection review done. certifiedmoldinspectors
Have a general humidity review done.
Have an Indoor Air Quality test performed. indoorairtest.com
Install Carbon Monoxide detector(s). epa.gov/iaq
Resource:
Building Efficiency
Question:
Was your home or office building built “green?”
Why is this question asked?
The building environment has a vast impact on the natural environment, human health, and the economy. By adopting green building strategies, we can maximize both economic and environmental performance. Green construction methods can be integrated into buildings at any stage, from design and construction, to renovation and deconstruction. However, the most significant benefits can be obtained if the design and construction team takes an integrated approach from the earliest stages of a building project.
Eco Action Plan:
Before you design a new home or remodel an existing one, you should consider investing in its energy efficiency. You'll save energy and money in the long run.
It's also a good time to invest in a renewable energy system that will provide your home with electricity, water heating, or space heating and cooling.
If you'd like to design an energy-efficient home, no matter what type of design, you should use what's called the whole-house systems approach.
If you're remodeling a home, conduct an energy audit to help you determine what energy efficiency improvements should and can be made to your home.
Resources:
Learn how to optimize energy efficiency with the following home designs and construction techniques:
Reduce lumber use and waste—improving energy efficiency—in the construction of a traditional wood-framed house.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10100
Incorporate earth into their structure and design for durability and energy efficiency.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10160
Use wooden logs to provide structure and insulation.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10210
Feature energy-efficient options for new homes and improvements for older homes.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10250
Take advantage of climatic conditions, especially the sun, for heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10350
Use straw bales to provide all or part of their structure and insulation.
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10360
Produce more energy than they use.
You should also explore your options for financing an energy-efficient home or improvements
Financing & Incentives
Find Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency Energy Savers
http://www.energysavers.gov/financial/70010.html
Professional Services
Find an Architect American Institute of Architects
Federal Government Resources
Energy-Efficient Rehab Advisor U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
http://rehabadvisor.pathnet.org/index.asp
Related Links
A Showcase of Resource-Efficient Homes Homes Across America
http://www.homes-across-america.org
Energy & Environmental Building Association
Decisions for Environmental Buildings Green Tree
http://www.ncat.org/greentree/welcome.html
Green Building Home Guidelines National Association of Home Builders Research Center
Reading List
Krigger, J.; Dorsi, C. (2004). Residential Energy: Cost Savings and Comfort for Existing Buildings. Helena, MT: Saturn Resource Management.
Question:
Have you made any “green” changes?
Why is this question asked?
Use these ideas to help turn any space into a stylish, inviting and eco-friendly venue, whether you're remodeling a home, office or designing for a special event.
Eco Action Plan:
Decorate with Plants
Plants can act as natural air filters, removing harmful chemicals like benzene and carbon monoxide from the indoor air. And they look great too, giving your home a more natural and vibrant feel. The best plants for improving indoor air quality include the peace lily, bamboo palm and gerbera daisy.
Maximize Daylight
Maximizing daylight -- through skylights, open shades, and south-facing windows -- substitutes electrical lighting with the natural light of the sun, saving money and preventing the emission of air pollutants and greenhouse gasses.
Use Energy Efficient Lighting
Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs use a third of the energy of regular incandescent bulbs and last up to ten times longer. Replacing a traditional incandescent bulb with a CFL can save you more than $30 over the lifetime of the bulb and prevent the emission of air pollutants and greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Look for the Energy Star label.
Choose FSC Wood Products
Much of the wood that we buy comes from unsustainable operations in endangered forests, including the Canadian Boreal, Cumberland Plateau, and the rain forests of Borneo. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is the only credible international certification organization for sustainably harvested wood and wood products. Look for the FSC label.
Select Efficient Windows
Windows are a significant source of heat loss in the winter and unwanted heat in the summer. Energy-efficient windows are lined with special coatings that reflect heat and provide superior insulation, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Efficient windows save money on reduced heating and cooling bills and prevent the emission of greenhouse gases. Look for the Energy Star label.
Opt for Low VOC Products
Many common household products, including paints, carpets and furniture, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to human health. When buying these products, look for those with a low VOC content.
Buy Locally
Locally produced products travel fewer miles to their end destination, resulting in less air and global warming pollution from transportation.
Resource:
Building Envelope
Question:
Is the office well insulated?
Why is this question asked?
Insulation is a commonly used product in the building industry. The manufacture, use, and disposal of insulation are associated with a number of positive and negative environmental impacts.
What is our general
recommendation?
Insulate as well as possible. Also -
because aesthetic demands are minimal, insulation can be a good use
for waste materials from other industrial processes or recycled solid
waste. Some insulation materials are available with very high levels
of recycled content. Look for high recycled content in all
insulation materials, meeting or exceeding the EPA’s Comprehensive
Procurement Guidelines’ (CPG) standards for recycled and
post-consumer content.
Rock Wool – 75% recovered slag
Fiberglass – 20-25% recovered glass
cullet
Cellulose Loose-Fill and Spray-On – 75% post-consumer
paper
Perlite Composite Board – 23% post-consumer paper
Plastic
Rigid Foam, Polyisocyanurate/Polyurethane:
Rigid Foam – 9%
Foam-in-Place – 5%
Glass Fiber
Reinforced – 6%
Phenolic Rigid Foam – 5%
Plastic, Non-Woven
Batt – 100%
Specific recommendation:
BioBased insulation
Why do we make that recommendation?
All insulation materials reduce pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions by reducing heating and air-conditioning requirements of a building. This benefit almost always outweighs environmental problems associated with certain materials. By making sure the insulation used is being created from industrial waste and recycled materials - you further decrease your businesses negative impacts on the environment.
Why do we make that specific
recommendation?
Biological products are almost always
the right environmental choice.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.biobased.net/index.php
Question:
Do you own the
building or rent?
Why is this question asked?
This is an essential question for determining just how much green change can be done.
Question:
Any
construction projects planned?
Why is this question asked?
Construction projects represent an
opportunity to become greener.
What is our general recommendation?
Depending on the work being performed - enlist the help of a LEED accredited contractor.
Why do we make that
recommendation?
The Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System encourages
global adoption of sustainable green building and development
practices.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.usgbc.org/myUSGBC/Members/MembersDirectory.aspx?PageID=77&CMSPageID=140
Question:
Roofing materials?
Why is this question asked?
Your roof presents an opportunity for energy creation, water runoff abatement, and carbon emission capture.
What is our general recommendation?
Make use of your roof space wisely. Green improvements can include:
Solar shingles or panels
Small scale wind turbines
Green native plant roofing technology
Why do we make that recommendation?
In the case of solar and wind energy
production: Why not? These systems have become so economically viable
that even the smallest of businesses can make use of the technology
some how. Green roofs are advisable if your roof can support the
extra weight because green roofs bring the following benefits:
Grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers
Reduce heating (by adding mass and thermal resistance value) and cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building — especially if it is glassed in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir
Increase roof life span
Reduce storm water run off — see water-wise gardening
Filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air — see living wall
The soil and plants on green roofs help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies.
Filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater
Increase wildlife habitat in built-up areas — see urban wilderness
A green roof is often a key component of an autonomous building.
A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the
University of Toronto showed that green roofs could also reduce heat
loss and energy consumption in winter conditions.
In a recent study on the impacts of green infrastructure and in particular green roofs in the Greater Manchester area, researchers found that adding green roofs will help keep temperatures down, particularly in urban areas: “adding green roofs to all buildings can have a dramatic effect on maximum surface temperatures, keeping temperatures below the 1961-1990 current form case for all time periods and emissions scenarios. Roof greening makes the biggest difference…where the building proportion is high and the evaporative fraction is low. Thus, the largest difference was made in the town centres.”
Question:
Where does the buildings water run off flow to?
Why is this question asked?
Polluted runoff is a major problem
throughout the United States and the rest of the world. Whenever it
rains, a toxic soup of chemicals and bacteria flows out of our cities
into our waterways. Eventually, these pollutants can lead to the
poisoning of aquatic wildlife or the creation of vast dead zones
where there isn't enough oxygen for marine life to survive. And, our
beaches and rivers can be unsafe for swimming and other recreational
activities due to high bacteria levels and other toxins.
What is our general
recommendation?
Capture and Reuse
Storm Water For Irrigation
Install rain barrels or cisterns at the end of gutter downspouts
Design some of your landscaping areas to function as rain gardens. Rain gardens are the same as regular gardens except for three things: they are slightly depressed so that they can store water, they employ plants that can tolerate wet conditions, and they sometimes have gravel placed underneath them to increase drainage. Stunning gardens can be created using water-tolerant plants and flowers. Find landscape architects in your area who can help with rain gardens.
Install dry wells. Dry wells are pits filled with crushed stone that route runoff underground before it gets to the street or local stream. They are easy to build, and offer your plants a greater supply of underground
water. Oftentimes, dry wells receive runoff from your gutter downspouts, or from a drain installed across your parking lot. Find a landscape architect in your area who can assist with dry wells and other storm water
projects.
Reduce paved surfaces
Runoff comes from our rooftops, driveways and paved pathways. With slight changes, these areas can be made much more river-friendly. Find landscape architects or general contractors in your area who can help with runoff-reducing paving projects.
Where possible, use paths and surfaces constructed out of pavers with spaces in between or other materials such as decomposed granite rather than solid concrete. This allows water to filter in rather than drain to the
street and storm drains.Replace long entry roads with paved tire pathways, so that the area in between is natural and allows water to penetrate the ground. Use “permeable” paving options.
Plant trees that grow over paved surfaces or rooftops
Trees stop water from hitting the ground by trapping it in the leaves and branches. It either evaporates there, or else runs to the edges of the tree's canopy and falls to the ground there (called the drip line). The strategic
planting of trees over paved surfaces or roofs can not only reduce storm water, but will also help your business be cooler and more energy-efficient (not to mention beautiful!).
Practice good stewardship. You might not be able to eliminate all runoff, so make sure that which you can't eliminate is clean.
Reduce use of toxic pesticides and herbicides. Many herbicides and pesticides don't discriminate. They'll kill whether it's the weed in your lawn or the plant down next to the lake. Use natural alternatives where
possible. If you need to bring out the heavy artillery, use only as directed and in as small of quantities as possible.Use lower-strength organic fertilizers, and follow the application instructions. Excess fertilizer that makes its way into our rivers and oceans is the chief cause of the algae blooms that can sicken people and deprive fish and shellfish of the oxygen they need to survive. Most of us over-fertilize our businesses lawns and gardens, so read and follow the instructions carefully! And, use lower-strength organic fertilizers
whenever possible.
Why do we make that recommendation?
GECKO believes this represents a comprehensive plan for limiting runoff and its associated environmental impact.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
Eco-friendly
Landscape Design &
Maintenance
http://www.lowimpactliving.com/providers/category/26
Question:
Any plans to repaint any rooms?
Why is this question asked?
Paints are usually a toxic mix of chemicals.
What is our general
recommendation?
Use paints made from non-volatile organic ingredients.
Why do we make that
recommendation?
Two reasons: Less damage to the environment and less damage to the humans near the paint.
What
is the contact info to help implement?
http://www.bioshieldpaint.com/
Question:
What sort of flooring do you have? Any plans to replace?
Why is this question asked?
There are trillions of square feet of commercial flooring in the world. This area represents a massive ecological impact.
What is our general recommendation?
Opt for one of the wide varieties of 'Green Flooring' options out there. This topic is business case specific.
Why do we make that
recommendation?
In general:
Green Flooring...
1...
is recycled and reduces dependency on oil.
2... meets government
regulations for recycling.
3... can last longer than conventional
flooring.
4... creates pride in ownership and contributes to a
better world.
5... is safe for you, your employees and the
environment.
6... is recyclable to prevent needlessly filling up
our landfills.
7... can save you time and money and makes you look
and feel good.
8... ensures a healthy environment for future
generations.
What is the contact
info to help implement?
http://www.greenfloors.com/
Question:
What are your carpets made of? How old are they?
Why is this question asked?
Waste disposal of old flooring is also
an issue. What happens to all that old carpet impacts us all.
What is our general recommendation?
If you’re going to get rid of old
flooring it can and should be recycled
Why do we make that recommendation?
You are either going to pay to have it
removed or pay to have it recycled. The obvious right choice for the
environment is to have it recycled.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.carpetrecovery.org/
Question:
How energy
efficient are your windows? Any plans to replace? Are they caulked or
taped at all?
Why is this question asked?
Inefficient windows can be responsible
for 50% of a business’ energy loss.
What is our general recommendation?
New 'Smart Window' technology.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Old windows are almost always
inefficient and 'Smart Windows' allow people to change the tint of
the window to help cool things off in summer and warm things up in
winter. They can also be used for privacy and for decreasing glare.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.refr-spd.com/
Question:
Is your office furniture made of recycled materials? Any plans to replace, upgrade it? Add staff?
Why is this question asked?
Three million tons of office furniture
— most of which is not biodegradable — ends up in landfills each
year.
What is our general recommendation?
Buy reused at 30-50% less or office
furniture made of recycled materials for 30-50% more.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Buying used furniture is an increasingly popular option for small and mid-sized firms for one main reason: It's good for a business's bottom line.
Reused office furniture, which currently accounts for $1.2 billion of the $13.6 billion commercial office-furniture industry, typically costs 30 percent to 50 percent less than new furniture. Once you figure out how much money you can save, buying another company's discarded furniture begins to sound like a pretty good idea.
However, if the budget truly allows and
the boss is agreeable - opt for buying furniture made from recycled
materials. You help create a market that breaks the causal chain of
disposable economies.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.resources.com/recycle/
Question:
Do you make
use of solar shading in any rooms? Are there any rooms that might
make sense in?
Why
is this question asked?
Solar shading systems make sense in
specific rooms. Business owners are usually far more in touch with
which rooms could stand to be darker and cooler.
What is our general recommendation?
This
is a room specific question. Many businesses have rooms that get too
much light, too much heat,
etc. Beware that solar shading on windows can be
used to mitigate issues.
Why do we make that recommendation?
It is case specific. Can have a
dramatic effect on cooling costs.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
3M Solar Shading
Question:
Is your
company responsible for the landscaping here?
Why is this question asked?
From pesticides to invasive and
poisonous plant species - this is a big environmental
responsibility.
What is our general recommendation?
Be careful. If you handle things
yourself - select native plant species & opt for 'good local
bugs' first when pest control is needed. If you hire out - opt for a
local contractor that uses native plant species and eco-friendly
methods of pest control and maintenance. Even the most
environmentally conscious 'green' thumbs will find themselves making
a boo-boo now and then. That’s what happens when you tamper with
nature.
Why do we make that recommendation?
N/A
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.epa.gov/greenkit/landscap.htm
Question:
Are there deciduous trees planted to the south and west of your office?
Why is this question asked?
Deciduous trees provide shade in summer
and lose their leaves in winter allowing more light in for warmth.
What is our general recommendation?
Plant native deciduous trees within
relative proximity to your building but not too close. Visualize the
tree at full height before planting.
Why do we make that recommendation?
We recommend native species to avoid
invasive problems. We recommend planting deciduous trees to help as a
carbon sink, assist cooling, and to act as a wind break. Not too
close though because you can ruin your roof and the roots can damage
your buildings foundation and other underground infrastructure.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.arborday.org/index.cfm
Question:
Are your parking lots shaded? How?
Why is this question asked?
Your car and your employees’ cars
take energy to cool off in summer and warm up in winter. If your
parking lots provide too much or too little shade at certain times
per year - ecological harm is done.
What is our general recommendation?
Scope it out - if there is too much
shade in winter or too much sun in summer on the vehicles in the
parking lot - then make a change. Deciduous trees can be helpful by
blocking sun in summer and letting more light in during winter.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Common sense is all too often thrown by
the wayside during the normal business day. A bit of strategic
planning minimizes the risk that individuals get stuck in the cold,
sweltering, or burning up the planet long term to increase their own
comfort short term.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
Consult with GECKO
Question:
Are your break rooms or open spaces for employees green areas?
Why is this question asked?
Usually the office break room in most
businesses is sort of industrial and lifeless - generally not a very
nice place to take a 'break' at all.
What is our general recommendation?
Align the space with its mission. Make the break room and other spaces green by including indoor plant species. Make sure the plant species will thrive indoors. Be careful to select plant breeds that do not contain allergens.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Living & natural break room and open space area elements have a proven effect of lowering employee stress levels: Thereby making your employees happier and more productive. From an environmental standpoint - the greener the better when it comes to carbon sink and capturing particulate matter.
A study noted that for those who
work in a corporate environment a "forested" area (which
was set up for the study) was highly sought after by employees. A
behavioral assessment revealed increased peace of mind and
cooperation within those who worked in this space. When the plants
were removed, behavior was affected negatively: irritability and
quarreling rose.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
EHow Article
Question:
Know anything about your heating and air conditioning system? Mind if we look? Any plans to replace?
Why is this question asked?
Heating and cooling causes air
pollution. Here’s how: Each day your local power plant will burn
coal, oil, or natural gas to generate energy for your HVAC system, as
well as for your other electrical needs. While burning, fossil fuels
produce an instantaneous supply of electricity and...air
pollutants.
Air pollutants cause global warming, acid rain, and
smog
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) - Causes global warming
SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide) - Causes acid rain
NOX (Nitrogen Oxide) - Causes both acid rain and smog
What is our general recommendation?
If your system needs replacing or
upgrading soon, then please consider using an alternative energy
(such as solar, wind, or geothermal) HVAC setup.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Three reasons:
They save your business money over time.
They decrease our nation's dependence on foreign resources.
Solar, wind, & geothermal are far better for the environment than burning fossil fuels.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.builditgreen.org/taxonomy_menu/3/4/31/42
Question:
What kind of urinals and toilets do you have? Age, any plans to replace?
Why is this question asked?
Fresh water is the lifeblood of our planet. We need to stop
wasting it and polluting it.
What is our general recommendation?
If urinals need replacing then opt for
water-free urinals. If toilets need replacing then install 2 button
flush toilets to help conserve water.
Why do we make that recommendation?
A water-free urinal typically saves an
average of 40,000 gallons (151,000 liters) of fresh water per year.
By opting for a 2 button flush system the end user is empowered to
save water.
SPECIAL NOTE - We are not
recommending anything fancy like a composting toilet because that
technology does not seem generally applicable to most businesses.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.falconwaterfree.com/
http://www.caromausa.com/toilets
Question:
Are there any company vehicles? What type – make model- any plans to replace? Do you recycle the oil from the fleet?
Why is this question asked?
According the EPA - A gallon of gasoline is assumed to produce 8.8 kilograms (or 19.4 pounds) of CO2
What is our general recommendation?
Given that global warming from CO2 emissions will be one of the greatest challenges to the human race - replace old vehicles that need replacing with vehicles that are greener. Recycle the oil from the fleet.
Why do we make that
recommendation?
Three reasons:
• Cost savings on
fuel
• Tax incentives
• Better for the environment
What is the contact info to
help
implement?
http://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/Index.do;jsessionid=8230d473e1a4604b517e
http://www.thegreenmotorist.com/
http://www.recycleoil.org/
Question:
Do you have office plants?
Why is this question
asked?
Modern office buildings spew out hundreds of chemicals from the new carpets, paints, upholstery, computers and plastics
What is our general recommendation?
Have 1 plant for every 100 square feet of floor space.
Use:
Areca Palm
Peace Lily
Rubber Plant
Why do we make that recommendation?
A study carried out by Chichester
College confirms the advantages of having house plants around because
they make our environment a healthier place in which to live and
work. Researchers have found that one potted plant per 100 square
feet of floor space can help
clean the air.
The students rated the most effective plants and the ubiquitous Areca Palm came first for removing ammonia, and formaldehyde (found in many cleaning products) from the air and releasing moisture into the air. Next was the Peace Lily, which removes acetone, then the Rubber Plant, then Ficus Benjamina (weeping fig) then the dracena. Number 6 is english ivy that eliminates mould causing asthma, boston ferns are highly rated for improving air quality, then the spider plant and lastly the moth orchid (phalaenopsis)
What is the contact info to
help
implement?
http://www.happynews.com/living/gardening/office-decor-guide.htm
Question:
Is there an office refrigerator? What kind? How old?
Why is this question asked?
Old refrigerators can suck up
electricity like nobody's business.
What is our general recommendation?
When it comes time to replace the old
fridge: Opt for refrigerators rated as 'excellent' on energy
efficiency by greenerchoices.org. Also please make sure that the
fridge is right-sized for your operation. Too much fridge = to much
energy and cost.
Why do we make that recommendation?
They are better for your electricity
bill and better for the environment.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.greenerchoices.org/ratings.cfm?product=fridge
Question:
Are there
vending machines here? Do you own them?
Why is this question asked?
They could be stealing your electricity!
What is our general
recommendation?
Make sure they have “Vending Misers” installed to reduce electrical drain.
Why do we make that
recommendation?
If the machine is yours - you want to
save energy. If the machine belongs to someone else - you
DEFINITELY want it to save energy.
What is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.vendingmiserstore.com
MISC. QUESTIONS:
What is the age of the roof?
Is the roof in need of replacement?
Do you plan to add insulation when the roof is replaced?
Are there opportunities to reduce air leakage through weather stripping on doors and windows?
Are there opportunities to repair cracks or add insulation to the building foundation?
Are there opportunities to install insulation between conditioned and unconditioned spaces?
Window type (tallied): Single-pane Double-pane Cracked or broken
Do you plan to replace any windows?
Is the building well insulated?
Does weather stripping around doors and windows need to be replaced?
Are cracks around doors, windows and foundations properly sealed?
Are there open doors around loading docks or other frequently accessed areas?
MISC. SUGGESITONS:
Orient buildings to catch breezes, minimize heat gain and take advantage of natural shading
and light.
Preserve existing vegetative cover and trees, along streams and other natural waterways to reduce storm water runoff. Design in bio-swales instead of ditches to help treat runoff as it passes through vegetation.
Ensure that walls, floors, roofs and windows are as energy efficient as possible.
Use high efficiency HVAC equipment that is “right sized” for the estimated demands of the facility. Use economizers and other controls that optimize system performance.
Use a geothermal system to heat and cool your school.
Design for good indoor air quality. Select building materials to limit the introduction of pollutants into the building in the first place.
Specify particular building materials with recycled content, such as concrete aggregate, carpeting, insulation, ceiling tiles, drywall, floor tile, playground surfacing and parking stops.
Consider wood products produce from sustainably managed forests.
Use durable materials like linoleum sheet flooring made from natural sources.
Maximize the use of natural daylight in building interiors as a source of ambient light.
Consider on-site renewable energy like solar hot water and photovoltaics to generate a portion of your school’s energy use. Use the project as an opportunity to teach students about renewable energy resources.
Use water efficient plumbing fixtures, such as aerators and self-closing or electronic faucets for lavatories.
Equip locker room showers with push button or timed on/off operation.
Set high lighting efficiency standards, such as high efficiency lamps, reflectors and ballasts. Specify smart controls such as occupancy sensors and daylight dimming.
Do not over-illuminate. Lighting levels should be tailored to the type of task being performed and the function off the illuminated space.
Develop optimum design criteria for insulation and windows. Do not rely on code minimums.
Specify light-emitting diodes or LED exit lights.
Direct exterior lighting downward to reduce light pollution and allow the use of lower wattage lamps.
Recycle demolition and construction waste, whenever possible.
Design pedestrian and bike-friendly features.
Consider implementing a building commissioning plan to ensure installed components or systems meet the intent of the original design.
Business Travel
Question:
Do you work with an eco-friendly travel company?
Why is this question asked?
Eco friendly travel agents are up-to-date with the latest ideas in eco travel and have eco-friendly business relationships.
Eco Action Plan:
Work with an eco-friendly travel company.
Resources:
Question:
Do you offset business travel?
Why is this question asked?
Business travel leaves a large carbon footprint.
Eco Action Plan:
Buy carbon offsets, or plant some trees.
Resource:
Question:
Does your
company offer telecommuting?
Why
is this question asked?
Billions of workers commute to their jobs every day. The ecological toll from greenhouse gas emissions alone is staggering.
What is our general
recommendation?
Offer
telecommuting to autonomously productive workers with appropriate job
responsibilities. However, telecommuting is not for every individual
or job task. The critical
issues in implementing effective
telecommuting programs are top management support, careful selection
of the telecommuting candidates, employee training, and formal
policies and procedures detailing
performance standards and measures.
Why
do we make that recommendation?
There are strong environmental
positives from reducing worker commutes. Moreover: 96% of IT staff
would like telecommuting to be offered and 36% of them would be
willing to accept reduced wages to get it. Telecommuting leads to a
significant reduction in carbon emissions even when increased
home-based carbon emissions are taken into account.
That's according to a survey commissioned by the US Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The survey, The Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Impact of Telecommuting, found that telecommuting in the U.S. caused increased emissions of carbon from home-based offices. This is due to extra lighting, heating and power for electronic devices. However, this was more than compensated for by the savings in petrol consumption.
Telecommuting reduces energy
consumption associated with transportation to and from the office
and, in some cases, a portion of the energy associated with
commercial office space.
The report states that there are 3.9 million people in the U.S. who work from home at least one day a week. By avoiding an average 22-mile commute to the place of work, and taking into account the increased power use in the home, this practice saves about 840 million (U.S.) gallons of petrol, equivalent to taking two million cars off the road for a year.
What
is the contact info to help
implement?
http://www.csupomona.edu/~jis/1999/preiser-houy.pdf
Question:
Do you use
videoconferencing or face-to-face meetings?
Why
is this question asked?
On the main, meetings that require travel of participants are unproductive from a time stand point and are ecologically damaging.
What
is our general recommendation?
To the greatest extent possible- replace face-to-face meetings where even 1 participant must travel with one of the following 3 types of video conferencing systems:
Group (sometimes called room) videoconferencing endpoints. These are high-quality systems designed to be used in shared environments such as meeting rooms, boardrooms, and auditoriums.
Desktop or personal videoconferencing systems. With cameras and microphones designed for personal or single-person use, this product segment includes videophones, executive systems, and PC-based solutions optimized for the office and cubicle work environment.
Video infrastructure: Includes multipoint control units (MCUs), also known as bridges, that enable more than two participants to be in a single videoconference; gateways that connect users on different networks (typically IP and ISDN as well as PSTN), gatekeepers that provide sophisticated user and bandwidth management functions as well as directory services; and NAT-firewall traversal solutions that enable audio and video calls to connect across different networks and user domains.
Many of these infrastructure products are available to end users on a “pay-as-you-go” basis by conferencing service providers.
Why do we make that recommendation?
Overall these systems will save participants time, money, and spare our environment the unnecessary wear and tear from all that travel.
What
is the contact info to help implement?
http://www.tandberg.com/
Question:
Do you have a telecommuting program for your employees, or encourage them to form carpools, and encourage the use of mass transportation?
Why is this question asked?
One of the easiest ways to cut down on your energy costs and protect the environment is to adopt green commuting options, such as a telecommuting program for your employees, forming carpools, and encouraging the use of mass transportation.
Eco Action Plan:
Check out the following links to learn more about these commuting options:
Information and tools to help employers reduce costs, keep good employees, and showcase their company.
Learn how to implement green commuting options in your business.
http://www.itsdocs.fhwa.dot.gov/JPODOCS/REPTS_PR/13669.html?cm_sp=ExternalLink-_-Federal-_-DOT
Figure out how much you can reduce air pollution by implementing carpool and telework programs.
http://www.telcoa.org/id134.htm
Learn how every trip you take can affect air quality.
http://www.italladdsup.gov/resources/what_can_i_do.asp?cm_sp=ExternalLink-_-Federal-_-DOT
Find out why telecommuting is good for business, employee morale and the environment.
http://www.greenbiz.com/research/report/2003/11/18/telecommuting
Resources:
Question:
Do your employees car or van pool?
Why is this question asked?
Carpooling reduces the costs involved in repetitive or long distance driving by sharing cars, sharing rental charges, or paying the main car owner. Some countries have introduced high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to encourage carpooling and use of public transport, to combat rising traffic congestion. In wartime, carpooling was encouraged to save oil. In reducing the number of cars on the road, carpooling decreases pollution and the need for parking space, and in a global perspective, reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Shared driving carpooling can also reduce driving stress.
Eco Action plan:
Encourage car and vanpooling. Carpooling can arise in accommodating en-route stops or changes to working times/patterns. Some larger carpools offer 'sweeper services' with later running options. A further backup can also be a 'guaranteed ride home' arrangement with a local taxi company.
Resources:
Question:
Do You Encourage your staff to take alternative forms of transportation?
Why is this question asked?
Taking public transportation reduced the environmental impact of your staff as they travel to work.
Eco Action Plan:
Encourage your staff to take public transportation. Offer to pay for them to do so, or buy subway cards and bus tickets.
Question:
Do you try to reduce your carbon footprint while on the road?
Why is this question asked?
Green travel tips can help you reduce your carbon footprint while you're on the road for work.
Eco Action Plan:
Bring a Water Bottle
Klean Kanteen stainless steel water bottle looks sleek enough for professional settings. Another option is to reuse your disposable water bottle several times over the course of a short business trip.
Carry Green
From your carry-on bag to your toiletry kit and clothes, make eco-friendly purchases whenever possible. Some things to look for include:
PVC-free bags.
Naturally occurring fibers (cotton, bamboo).
Toiletry items made from organic materials and without animal testing.
Carry One Bag
If you’re a frequent business traveler you probably having packing in one bag down to a science, but if not, check out tips for packing light.
Conserve on the Road
From recycling to carrying your own water bottle and switching off lights and electronics when not in use, pretend you are footing the bill for all of your energy use. You likely watch the thermostat and long showers at home, so don't give up that thrifty spirit on the road. Some other ways to cut back:
Hang up those towels; follow any hotel guidelines for conserving towel use.
Don't be wasteful; tote partially used hotel toiletries home.
Fly Less
Flying may be unavoidable in many instances, but there are things you can consider when it comes to air travel:
Fly non-stop when possible; you'll get there faster and reduce emissions. Check out best nonstop search engines.
Will a train do? Use alternative modes of transportation whenever possible.
Plan trips wisely; try to plan meetings back-to-back so you can take one flight to the furthest destination and then work your way back home.
Green your Stay
See 11 Tips and Tricks for Greening your Hotel Stay.
Hop in an EcoCab
Most major cities now have hybrid taxis and eco cabs. If you must take a taxi, see if this is an option.
Select a Hybrid Rental Car
If renting a car is the only option that makes sense, get a hybrid rental car. The prices usually fall within a company’s per diem and you can justify it with gas savings.
Share Transportation
If you’re traveling with co-workers, schedule your travel at the same time so that you can share taxi rides or rental cars.
Skip the Car Rental
If you can, skip the car rental altogether and take public transportation instead.
Stay in a Green Hotel
Green hotels are a great option for business travel.
Support Green Companies
If you have a choice in where you stay and eat on the road, you can, at least, reduce your negative environmental impact. Support hotels, restaurants and local stores with green initiatives.
Take Public Transportation to Get Around
Once you’re at your destination, take public transportation to get around. In many cities taking the subway or metro can be faster than a cab inching through traffic.
Take the Train or Bus
If you can, take a bus or train to your destination. It is less of a hassle (no security lines, easier to get to, fewer delays) and a fun way to see America.
Teleconference
Before you decide a business trip is absolutely necessary, check first to see if a teleconference could happen in place of meeting in person.
Ideas
Encourage eco-friendly travel (carry only 1 bag)
Encourage eco-friendly travel (carry stainless steel water containers)
Encourage staff to use mass transportation while on business trips
Encourage Virtual Meetings, such as teleconferencing, web-conferencing, or video-conferencing.
Offer the option of a 4-day / 10-hour work week (or some variation thereof)
Offers bike racks for employee use.
Rent hybrid cars while on business trips
Schedule business trips back to back
Stay in an eco-friendly hotel
Use eco cabs
Encourage staff to form carpools
If possible, have some or all staff work from home. Move away from a culture of attendance to one based on performance.
Carbon Credits & Footprint
Calculate your carbon footprint http://www.ghgprotocol.org
Question:
Do you buy carbon credits/offsets?
Why is this question asked?
Carbon offsets are becoming an increasingly popular way for individuals and businesses to participate in solutions to global warming.
The basic idea of a carbon offset is to figure out your personal contribution level to the global warming problem from such activities as driving, flying, or home energy use. This contribution is called a "carbon footprint." The term refers to carbon dioxide, the principal greenhouse gas.
You can balance out your carbon footprint by buying carbon offsets. Your purchase funds reductions in greenhouse gas emissions through projects such as wind farms, which produce clean energy that displaces energy from fossil fuels. By funding these reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, you balance out, or offset, your own impact by an equivalent amount. Carbon offsets help you take personal responsibility for the environmental consequences of your activities.
Eco Action Plan:
Buy the offset! Most offset providers sell through the Internet, so you’ll be able to buy with a credit card and get confirmation of your new clean-living, clean-driving status within minutes.
Resources:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2170138_buy-carbon-credits.html
Question:
Do you take any steps to reduce your carbon footprint on the road?
Why is this question asked?
A carbon footprint is "the total set of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by an organization, event or product." For simplicity of reporting, it is often expressed in terms of the amount of carbon dioxide, or its equivalent of other GHGs, emitted.
The concept and name of the carbon footprint originates from the ecological footprint discussion. The carbon footprint is a subset of the ecological footprint and of the more comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).
An individual, nation, or organization's carbon footprint can be measured by undertaking a GHG emissions assessment. Once the size of a carbon footprint is known, a strategy can be devised to reduce it, e.g. by technological developments, better process and product management, changed Green Public or Private Procurement (GPP), Carbon capture, consumption strategies, and others. The mitigation of carbon footprints through the development of alternative projects, such as solar or wind energy or reforestation, represents one way of reducing a carbon footprint and is often known as Carbon offsetting.
Eco Action Plan:
Before buying a new or used vehicle (or even before renting a vehicle), check out EPA's Green Vehicle Guide and the jointly run EPA/DOE Fuel Economy Guide Web site. These resources provide information about the emissions and fuel economy performance of different vehicles.
Drive smart
Many factors affect the fuel economy of your car. To improve fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, go easy on the brakes and gas pedal, avoid hard accelerations, reduce time spent idling and unload unnecessary items in your trunk to reduce weight. If you have a removable roof rack and you are not using it, take it off to improve your fuel economy by as much as 5 percent. Use overdrive and cruise control on your car if you have those features. For more tips to improve your gas mileage, visit the Fuel Economy Guide Web site.
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/driveHabits.shtml
Tune your ride
A well-maintained car is more fuel-efficient, produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions, is more reliable, and is safer! Keep your car well tuned, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, and use the recommended grade of motor oil. Also check and replace your vehicle’s air filter regularly. For more details, including potential savings from these actions, visit the Fuel Economy Guide Web site.
Check your tires
Check your tire pressure regularly. Under-inflation increases tire wear, reduces your fuel economy by up to 3 percent, and leads to increased emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. If you don’t know the correct tire pressure for your vehicle, you can find it listed on the door to the glove compartment or on the driver's-side door pillar. More details are available on the Fuel Economy Guide Web site.
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/maintain.shtml
Give your car a break
Use public transportation , carpool or walk or bike whenever possible to avoid using your car. Leaving your car at home just two days a week will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,600 pounds per year. Whenever possible, combine activities and errands into one trip. For daily commuting, consider options like telecommuting (working from home via phone or over the Internet) that can reduce the stress of commuting, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save you money.
http://www.publictransportation.org
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bikeped
Use Renewable Fuels
Both E85 and biodiesel are renewable fuels that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your vehicle. E85 is a fuel blend containing 85% ethanol that can be used in certain vehicles called Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). FFVs can be fueled with E85 or with traditional gasoline. There are approximately 6 million FFVs on the road today. To find out if you own one of them, check the inside of your car's fuel filler door for an identification sticker or consult your owner’s manual. If you own a diesel vehicle, consider filling up with a biodiesel blend such as B5, a fuel blend containing 5% biodiesel. Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from agricultural resources such as vegetable oils. The Department of Energy’s Alternative Fueling Station Locator can help you locate both E85 and biodiesel fuel stations in your area.
Resources:
http://www.cleanair-coolplanet.org/action/footprint.php
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/actionsteps.html
http://green.wikia.com/wiki/How_to_reduce_your_carbon_footprint
http://www.nature.org/initiatives/climatechange/calculator/?gclid=CNuDlOqakJ4CFVhJ2gods0P_og
http://www.cleanair-coolplanet.org/action/footprint.php
Question:
Do you do anything to reduce your carbon footprint at work?
Why is this question asked?
People who are concerned with the environment and interested in saving money try to reduce their carbon footprint at work.
Eco Action Plan:
Manage office equipment energy use better
Office equipment and electronics use energy even when idle or on stand-by. To save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions at work, always activate the power management features on your computer and monitor, unplug laptop power cords when not in use and turn off equipment and lights at the end of the day. Consider using a power strip that can be turned off when you're done using your computers, printers, wireless routers and other electronics.
Look for ENERGY STAR qualified products for the Office
When buying new products for your office at work or at home, get the features and performance you want and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollutants. Look for ENERGY STAR qualified office equipment, such as computers, copiers, and printers, in addition to more than 50 product categories, including lighting, heating and cooling equipment and commercial appliances.
Ask your office building manager if your office building has earned the ENERGY STAR ENERGY STAR-labeled buildings provide safe, healthy, and productive environments that use about 35 percent less energy than average buildings. Their efficient use of energy also reduces the total operational cost of the building.
Use less energy for your commute
Switch to public transportation, carpooling, biking, telecommuting and other innovative ways to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions on your way to and from work. Encourage your employer to offer commuter benefits that address limited or expensive parking, reduce traffic congestion, improve employee recruiting and retention and minimize the environmental impacts associated with drive-alone commuting. If you do drive, find out the fuel efficiency of your vehicle using EPA's and DOE's fuel economy Web site, and make more environmentally-informed choices when purchasing your next vehicle by using EPA's Green Vehicle Guide.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Recycle office paper, newspapers, beverage containers, electronic equipment and batteries. Reducing, reusing, and recycling in your office helps conserve energy, and reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal. You can reduce, reuse and recycle at the office by using two-sided printing and copying; buying supplies made with recycled content; and recycling used printer cartridges. For your old electronics, investigate leasing programs to ensure reuse and recycling or donate used equipment to schools or other organizations.
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/recycle.htm
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/reduce.htm
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/index.html
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/ecycling/index.htm
Question:
Do you do anything to reduce your carbon footprint at home?
Why is this question asked?
People who are concerned with the environment and interested in saving money try to reduce their carbon footprint at home.
Eco Action Plan:
Change 5 lights
Change a light, and you help change the world. Replace the conventional bulbs in your 5 most frequently used light fixtures with bulbs that have the ENERGY STAR and you will help the environment while saving money on energy bills. If every household in the U.S. took this one simple action we would prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions from nearly 10 million cars.
Look for ENERGY STAR qualified products
When buying new products, such as appliances for your home, get the features and performance you want AND help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Look for ENERGY STAR qualified products in more than 50 product categories, including lighting, home electronics, heating and cooling equipment and appliances.
Heat and cool smartly
Simple steps like cleaning air filters regularly and having your heating and cooling equipment tuned annually by a licensed contractor can save energy and increase comfort at home, and at the same time reduce greenhouse gas emissions. When it's time to replace your old equipment, choose a high efficiency model, and make sure it is properly sized and installed.
Sealing air leaks and adding more insulation to your home is a great do-it-yourself project. The biggest leaks are usually found in the attic and basement. If you are planning to replace windows, choose ENERGY STAR qualified windows for better performance. Forced air ducts that run through unconditioned spaces are often big energy wasters. Seal and insulate any ducts in attics and crawl spaces to improve the efficiency of your home.
Not sure where to begin?
A home energy auditor can also help you find air leaks, areas with poor insulation, and evaluate the over-all energy efficiency of your home. By taking these steps, you can eliminate drafts, keep your home more comfortable year round, save energy that would otherwise be wasted, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Use green power
Green power is environmentally friendly electricity that is generated from renewable energy sources such as wind and the sun. There are two ways to use green power: you can buy green power or you can modify your house to generate your own green power. Buying green power is easy, it offers a number of environmental and economic benefits over conventional electricity, including lower greenhouse gas emissions, and it helps increase clean energy supply. If you are interested, there are a number of steps you can take to create a greener home , including installing solar panels and researching incentives for renewable energy in your state.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
If there is a recycling program in your community, recycle your newspapers, beverage containers, paper and other goods. Use products in containers that can be recycled and items that can be repaired or reused. In addition, support recycling markets by buying products made from recycled materials. Reducing, reusing, and recycling in your home helps conserve energy and reduces pollution and greenhouse gases from resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal.
Be green in your yard
Use a push mower, which, unlike a gas or electric mower, consumes no fossil fuels and emits no greenhouse gases. If you do use a power mower, make sure it is a mulching mower to reduce grass clippings. Composting your food and yard waste reduces the amount of garbage that you send to landfills and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. See EPA’s GreenScapes program for tips on how to improve your lawn or garden while also benefiting the environment. Smart Landscaping can save energy, save you money and reduce your household’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Use water efficiently
Saving water around the home is simple. Municipal water systems require a lot of energy to purify and distribute water to households, and saving water, especially hot water, can lower greenhouse gas emissions. Look for products with EPA's WaterSense label; these products save water and perform as well or better than their less efficient counterparts. There are also simple actions you can take to save water: Be smart when irrigating your lawn or landscape; only water when needed and do it during the coolest part of the day, early morning is best. Turn the water off while shaving or brushing teeth. Do not use your toilet as a wastebasket - water is wasted with each flush. And did you know a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water per day? Repair all toilet and faucet leaks right away. See EPA's WaterSense site for more water saving tips.
Spread the Word
Tell family and friends that energy efficiency is good for their homes and good for the environment because it lowers greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Tell 5 people and together we can help our homes help us all.
Resources:
Question:
Do you do anything to reduce your carbon footprint at school?
Why is this question asked?
People who are concerned with the environment and interested in saving money try to reduce their carbon footprint at school.
Eco Action Plan:
Students
Bring science to life
Explore the Climate Change Kids Site and watch Climate Animations that bring to life the science and impacts of climate change. The site also provides games that help students, their parents and their teachers learn about both the science of climate change and what actions they can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
High school students check your school's climate impact
High school students can investigate the link between everyday actions at their high school, greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Using EPA's Climate Change Emission Calculator Kit (Climate CHECK) students can learn about climate change, estimate their school’s greenhouse gas emissions and conceptualize ways to mitigate their school’s climate impact. Students gain detailed understandings of climate-change drivers, impacts, and science; produce an emission inventory and action plan; and can even submit the results of their emission inventory to their school district.
Get Involved your College or University
College students can play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions at their colleges or universities by reducing their emissions from energy they use in dorm rooms. Students can also work with school administrators to: increase energy efficiency on campus, reduce their school's greenhouse gas emissions by using green power, create a campus climate action plan , or develop an inventory of their school's greenhouse gas emissions.
Educators
Teach students about climate change and ecosystems
Use the new Climate Change, Wildlife and Wildlands Toolkit for Formal and Informal Educators to learn about the science of climate change and its potential effects on our nation’s wildlife and their habitats.
Engage middle school students in estimating emissions
Enhance critical thinking skills by introducing the Global Warming Wheel Card Classroom Activity Kit to middle school students. A hand-held wheel card and other resources help students estimate household greenhouse gas emissions in order to encourage students to think about ways to reduce their personal, family, school and community contributions to climate change. If you are an informal educator, simply use the Global Warming Wheel Card as a part of your field activities.
Learn from other educators
Investigate what other schools and organizations are doing to educate their audiences on climate change by clicking on Educators’ Links, a searchable database offering links to resources such as lesson plans, videos, books and toolkits.
Administrators
Save money and the environment
Download this book for your ebook reader.
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