As colleges face rising utility costs and pressure to curb emissions, energy conservation is critical. While campus operations can upgrade systems and infrastructure, the real power lies with students taking simple actions to reduce energy waste. Here are some bright ideas students can lead the charge on saving energy:
- Turn Off Lights
One of the easiest habits is being diligent about turning off lights when leaving a room. Remind friends to flip switches when done studying in lounges, leaving classrooms, exiting bathrooms, etc. Put up reminders like sticky notes, signs or stickers. Report burnt-out exit sign bulbs and exterior lights left on during daylight so they can be replaced with LEDs.
- Unplug Idle Electronics
Phones, laptops, printers, TVs and gaming systems draw standby power even when “off.” Unplug chargers and power strips when not in use. Enable power management settings to automatically sleep or hibernate devices. Opt for ENERGY STAR certified electronics that use less power in sleep/standby modes.
- Power Down Before Breaks
During weekends, holidays and summer, many campus buildings are left empty with lights, computers, lab equipment and appliances still running. Coordinate “Power Down” campaigns before breaks to ensure all non-essential electricity loads are fully shut off. Residence halls could compete for the highest percentage reduction.
- Use Stairs When Possible
Campus buildings often have centralized HVAC systems running constantly to condition air in stairwells, hallways and other low-occupancy areas. Taking stairs when feasible reduces the cooling/heating loads and what floors need ventilating. It’s also a healthy way to get some extra exercise!
- Get Outdoors
Instead of cranking up AC and lighting in study rooms, take advantage of nice weather by studying or working outdoors. Bringing in natural light and fresh air greatly reduces energy used versus enclosed, climate-controlled spaces.
Every bit of energy conserved translates into cost savings for the school and emissions reductions for the environment. Even small individual actions taken by students add up exponentially across an entire campus. Students have a major role to play in creating a culture of sustainability.
Sources
- Energy Star – “Student’s Guide to Energy Efficiency” https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/studentsenergy/3daykit
- University of Colorado Boulder –
https://www.colorado.edu/ecenter/energy
- Ohio State University –
https://fod.osu.edu/sustainability
- University of Florida –
- Louisiana State University – “Study Outdoors to Save Energy” https://www.lsu.edu/sustainability
Author: Connor Coursey
Georgia College Green Initiative 