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!!