SHS Green School

We are all becoming increasingly aware of the impact modern life is having on the planet and the need to think deeply about choices affecting our environment.  At Sterling Hall, we are committed to lessening our impact on the Earth.  In the Spring of 2007, the SHS Green School Task Force was struck to examine what we’re already doing right in this area and how we can improve.  Our goal is to inspire all members of the SHS Community to preserve the planet for our generation as well as those to come.

Since Spring 2007, we’ve completed the following projects:

• Performed comprehensive water and energy audits of the school’s facilities.
• Hired Bullfrog Power to supply enough electricity for the Sullivan Music Centre.  All of the energy is generated from either wind or certified low-impact hydroelectric sources.
• Installed moisture and humidity sensors on the playing fields to reduce the amount of water used for irrigation.
• Replaced the urinal water release control units in the boys’ bathroom to prevent unnecessary flushing.
• Switched to FSC-certified, forest-friendly paper in the Advancement Department.

As of Fall 2007, the following projects are underway:

• Begin tracking monthly water, electricity and natural gas consumption to use as a baseline from which to compare future conservation.
• Install motion sensitive taps in the boys’ bathroom.
• Investigate the cost and benefit of adding a solar array on the SHS roof.
• Launch a ‘no vehicle idling’ campaign on the SHS property.
• Host fundraising and consciousness-raising events to heighten awareness of the plight of our mascots, the Sharks, worldwide.
• Investigate hosting a ‘carbon-neutral event’ at SHS.  Track the amount of carbon generated by the event and offset it by planting trees or purchasing carbon credits.
• Reduce the use of plastic water bottles on the SHS property.  Make reusable aluminum water bottles available for sale in the Shark Shop.
• Establish a battery collection center at the school.  Accept used batteries from the homes of students and staff who might otherwise have thrown them in the garbage.

This is just the beginning.  Check out our “Green School Project List” to find out what else we’d like to tackle or for ideas on how you can get involved.