How Your School Can Prevent Pollution
Many pollution prevention opportunities are available to schools. Below is a list of some things schools can do:
- Purchase less toxic cleaning supplies.
- Use double-sided copies. Set all computers to print double sided.
- Join the Clean Air Zone Program and actively encourage parents to adhere to the signs by no idling.
- Use energy-efficient fluorescent lights and properly recycle them when they are spent.
- Start an alternative transportation program at school to encourage biking, walking, or carpooling.
- Turn off lights when not in use.
- Use recycled products and other environmentally friendly products.
- Plug holes and caulk windows to stop heat loss.
- Lower the thermostat during unoccupied hours.
- Turn off all machines when not in use.
- Fix leaks in faucets and pipes.
- Only run the dishwasher when it is full.
- Use water-efficient and native landscaping.
- Water school grounds in the morning or in the evening to prevent evaporation. Do not over water.
- Use a minimal amount of fertilizers and pesticides and follow directions. Find natural alternatives if possible.
- Use non-chemical pest control methods such as swatters for insects and mechanical traps for mice.
- Use integrated pest management.
- Start a Chemical Roundup Program to properly dispose of old and potentially hazardous materials and prevent the accumulation of chemicals in the future.