The effect of CO2 emissions is a focus for significant scientific and political debate all over the world, and finding the energy balance which recognises the need for economic development and environmental protection is a priority for most of the countries in the rich world, and an increasing number of developing ones.
Governments such as Scotland’s – though still heavily dependent on non-renewable sources such as gas, oil and coal – have set targets for the use of renewable energy sources. The Scottish Government wants renewable energy sources like on- and off-shore wind, tidal and wave to generate 40% of Scotland’s energy use by 2020.
Dunbar Primary School has a Junior Climate Challenge Steering Group which works to help reduce the schools C02 emissions related to Energy, Food Miles and Transport.
Dunbar Primary School has carried out an Energy Audit and we monitor the school’s energy use and set targets for its reduction, through measures such as switching off lights more regularly and buying energy-saving lightbulbs.
This is a whole school initiative involving pupils, teachers and other staff such as janitors – we find it is a good way to foster cooperation and teamwork as well as saving energy and money for the school.