Our facilities are continually being used by a number of outside groups. What can schools do to conserve energy and natural resources under these conditions?
With the growing number of before and after-school programs, community meetings, adult education courses, sporting events, and performances, our facilities are operating long after students have gone for the day. Our best defense is a good offense, so spread the word about energy and resource conservation. Be sure to post conservation materials throughout your building and in particular, in those areas most used by outside groups. Informing outside groups of how their actions directly impact your building’s operating costs is a step in the right direction. Attach conservation reminders to Use of Building Contracts, reminders such as limiting the use of stadium lights for practices, not leaving outside doors open when HVAC systems are in operation, or turning off lights and equipment when leaving.
