Are you aware of the energy wasted around us all?
Cody Maggi
Issue date: 3/16/10 Section: Features
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With a failing economy and resources running thin we can all take a new look at our efforts to become more green, while also helping out our pockets.
David Reed, an employee of JEA, performed a walk through Downtown Campus to help bring awareness to the students on ways that the school could become more energy efficient.
"There are so many reasons for us to make better choices in terms of our energy use- whether it's saving the planet or saving money on the light bill," said Downtown Campus guidance counselor Amy Perkins, who is also aiding the students with the Nature Awareness Week.
Among the many areas that could increase energy efficiency, most things were easy and free.
"Turning off lights in vacant classrooms, bathrooms, and hallways can help," said Perkins. "Every classroom we visited had a DVD player and other equipment that had lights on them which uses electricity even when they are off"
Energy vampires are what Perkins likes to call them, meaning machines that are running and sucking energy even when off or in hibernation mode.
"Think cell phone chargers, play stations, DVD players," said Perkins. "These can add up to 10 percent of your energy bill."
Another area in which Reed saw a window for improvement was making the most out of natural light.
"Walking around campus, almost all the blinds were closed," said Perkins. "If those blinds are opened, a lot more natural light enters and a lot less lighting is required."
Heating and cooling the school is probably the number one energy cost at the campus.
According to Reed adjusting temperatures down two degrees in winter and up two degrees in summer can lead to drastic savings that can be done. This suggestion can be used in our own homes too.
Landscaping was another area in need of improvement.
"We found sprinkler heads for plant beds with Florida-friendly plants, that should not require additional watering," said Perkins. "If we want to save money and resources, it will take a culture change."
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