Projects
Curriculum
The Environmental Council aims to develop a comprehensive curriculum covering Year 1-Year 9, where multi-faceted approaches varying from theory based to practical lessons will be taught. This curriculum would cover all of the topic areas directed under the sustainability guidelines. Community engagement through inviting experts to talks as wells as presenting findings regularly to the community will also contribute to education.
Energy conservation and alternate energy
The Environmental Council will continue use of Entrak, and aim to make data more publicized. The council will continue to work with the school to develop weather based air condition and fan policies, as well as identify sources of energy waste.
Recycling
The Environmental Council has installed paper recycling bins in all classrooms, and will work to ensure collected recyclables are in the correct bins. The council will follow up on collected recyclables to ensure they are put to good use. The Council will also attempt to encourage local upcycling and recycling in creative art projects and other opportunities, as well as educate the public on proper use of recycling bins.
Food Waste Management
The Environmental Council will work with the Food Crusaders to continue and expand the current composting program, and work to reduce the amount of food waste produced by students, as well as thrown out unsold food. The Council is also negotiating with Chartwells to expand upon current guidelines and minimize food waste as well as carbon footprint of meal options. Other waste related to food such as packaging and takeout containers are also in the process of removal.
Biodiversity
The Environmental Council will work to expand the current gardening initiatives, incorporating PVOC removing plants as well as crops into gardening programs. The Council also aims to integrate plants into building design, and is working to integrate plants into the cafeteria, have plants in all classrooms by the end of 2018-2019 academic year as well as retrofit all the plant pots in the corridor areas.
Indoor air quality
The Environmental Council aims to install carbon monitors in all classrooms, and work to procure updated air conditioning and fans to improve ventilation and air quality. This will also combine with the biodiversity project to include PVOC targeting plants in all classrooms, as well as natural flora scents and dehumidifiers to provide a better learning environment for all students.
Water consumption
The Environmental Council aims to install water monitors and ensure excessive water is not wasted during catering and in the science, art and technology departments. Greywater collection and reusing water where safety guidelines permit will also be looked into.
Catering management
The Environmental Council is currently negotiating with Chartwells to introduce various reforms to the catering system First, the Council is working on introducing a pre-order and review system, where students can pre-book meals to reduce queue times. The review system will give Chartwells analytics on popular dishes and aid in the reform or removal of less popular options. The Council is also working closely with Chartwells in the modernization of the canteen. With the ground floor, including the canteen, is scheduled for renovation in the Summer of 2019. We are also negotiating with Chartwells to remove plastic cutlery and containers, introduce more vegetarian options, organize more carbon friendly procurement, new meal size, rebate scheme for finishing food and reward for bringing your own containers and mugs.
Development plan
The Environmental Council has written a comprehensive sustainability overview, and is working with the Senior Leadership Team on integrating elements of environmental protection in school redevelopment and policies.