Should a School Implement Green Business Practices?

Did you ever think you would send your children to school to become environmentally friendly? Once upon a time children were sent to school to learn only practical subjects however these days the range of subjects being taught to children has been extended. Schools now are looking to implement green business practices not only to reduce the environmental impact of the school but also to teach children about environmental stewardship. The desire to create new schools with green building concepts is not just about protecting the environmental but also recognition of how physical environments can affect learning. This article outlines drivers for schools to go green.Motivation for Green SchoolsSchools are one of the many industries seeking to green their business. As well as the cost savings that can result from implementing green business practices, schools also benefit by creating lessons for students around their own environmental initiatives. There is also recognition that green schools are not only better for the environment but are also better for students. By making sure classrooms have good acoustics, high-quality air and ample natural light a more productive learning environment is created. The importance of these factors is such that a number of States in America have policies requiring schools to be green.Green Business Practices for SchoolsSchools do not differ too much from other industries when it comes to green business practices that can be implemented. While they have some specific needs the key areas of energy and water use along with waste disposal still apply. Reducing energy use through making use of natural light and using occupancy sensors to automatically switch off light can create significant cost savings. In some schools solar energy is used to supply lighting needs. Water use can be reduced through installing low flow toilets and fixtures in bathrooms as well as educating students on the importance of saving water. Students can get involved in recycling programs not only reducing the waste disposed of by the school but also acquiring a good knowledge of recycling which they then take home with them. There are many green business practices that can be implemented without major alteration but new schools being constructed or those undergoing major renovation can be more environmentally friendly by creating green school buildings.Green Buildings in SchoolsThe US Green Building Councils LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has a category specifically for school buildings. Aside from the usual green building issues, the certification also addresses such things as mold prevention and classroom acoustics. According to the Council 20% of America goes to school each day and greening both new and existing schools can impact student health, improve teacher retention and reduce school operating costs. A range of green school case studies can be found on their Green School Buildings website.Going green in schools is going to be an increasing trend. Although establishing green business practices can take considerable work the benefits of reducing operating costs and improving the well being of students and staff are likely to outweigh these. Further to this, incorporating environmental lessons around actions the school is already taking creates an understanding of environmental stewardship for future generations.