Energy-saving tips just a click away for schools

Lester Kok Straits Times 25 Mar 11;
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ENERGY-EFFICIENT measures and practices are now just a mouse click away for schools wanting to go green.

Titled 'South West Energy Efficiency 'Cool' Guide for Schools', the Internet guide details the methods that helped 47 schools save up to 300,000 kilowatt hours of electricity in six months.

The energy saved is enough to power 1,000 three-room HDB flats for a month.

Yesterday, these schools in the South West District were recognised by Mayor Amy Khor for promoting energy conservation efforts among their students.

A total of 47 primary, secondary and pre-tertiary institutions had joined the South West Community Development Council's 'Green Schools' programme last year.

Dr Khor, who is Minister of State in the Ministry for the Environment and Water Resources, presented the awards to them at the annual Mayor's Dialogue with Schools and Institutions held at Nan Hua High School.

Some of these schools' best practices include appointing a representative for every class to make sure all electrical appliances and lights are switched off during recess and after classes.

'I am encouraged to see the strong and continued support from our schools and institutions to help promote eco-friendly habits and lifestyle among our young,' said Dr Khor.

This year, 56 schools in the South West District pledged to do their part for the environment by joining the programme.

Apart from the 'green schools', 10 primary school pupils also got awards for their efforts in community services and volunteer work.

Known as the Youth Excellence Award in the Heartlands (YEAH!) Junior, the programme aims to instill the community spirit among children aged 10 to 12.

During the dialogue, Dr Khor was given feedback by both students and teachers, among which was a suggestion to hold an event in the heartland to showcase student talents from schools in the South West District.