We are living in an era of inventions, innovations, and developments, where development is a crucial part of society. Technology lies at the heart of development, but it has a significant impact on society in various ways, whether positive or negative. Technological advancements have made life much easier and more convenient, helping humans improve their effectiveness in life.
Green Technology Integration in Education: A Sustainable Approach for the Future
On the other hand, technology impacts the human ability to control and adapt to their natural habitat and is producing pollution, toxic waste, and reducing natural resources. Green technology is the use of products and systems to preserve the environment and reduce the negative impact of human activities. It is the best alternative for sustainable growth.
Nowadays, integrating technology in education is taking schools to the next level. Quality education is one of the crucial agendas of sustainable development goals. Many nations are emphasizing the sustainable growth of the education sector. Green technology can be applied in the education sector to make it more sustainable and eco-friendly. Schools are a great place to take green initiatives as they teach the next generation of consumers how to take care of our planet while using it. Here are some ways schools can embrace green practices:
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Water conservation
Schools use enormous amounts of water every day for various activities like heating-cooling systems, kitchens, laboratories, drinking water, and outdoor playing fields. The water demand in India is estimated to double by the year 2030. Schools, especially in rural areas, struggle a lot during summer days regarding water issues. Rainwater harvesting is one of the solutions to mitigate the effect of exhausting underground water levels and fluctuating climate change.
Schools can install roof-based and land-based rainwater harvesting structures. Water can be collected on rooftops and used for various activities, and water collected at ground structures can be used to recharge groundwater tables. Children have not developed the ability and sense to use water carefully. Schools can install eco-taps and eco-showers with built-in flow limiters and aerators to save up to 50% of water without affecting quality and performance. This increases the sustainability of the school.
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Recycling program
Recycling not only helps schools reuse materials but also helps reduce expenses and save money. Schools produce different types of waste, including food, paper waste, electronic waste, metal waste, and plastic waste. To avoid food waste, teachers can encourage habits among students such as not wasting food and using sustainable wrapping options. If the school prepares food, they can donate extra meals to those in need. In the education sector, paper is the main waste, and schools need to understand efficient ways to use resources to prevent this waste.
Both sides of papers can be used or given to students for rough work if blank space is available. Papers can also be sold for recycling, earning some money. Metal waste can also be sold for recycling. Electronic devices contain toxic chemicals that can be released into the environment if not recycled and disposed of properly, so schools can separate and send them for recycling.
Generating own energies
Electricity is a crucial resource for running a school, and over 37% of schools in India did not have electricity until 2017. Using green technology like solar power can overcome the crisis of electricity shortage. Schools in less electrified areas can install solar technology, providing classrooms with free and clean energy. They no longer have to depend on government-generated electricity from fossil fuels. Solar energy is renewable and reduces carbon emissions, providing students with a safer environment.
Many schools in India provide students with meals that require natural resources or fuels, causing pollution, carbon emissions, and less sustainability. Schools can convert their waste into compost, which can be used in the kitchen garden and form biogas. The availability of electricity and other renewable resources helps students reach their potential and bridge the gap.
Say no to plastic
Plastic is one of the most environmentally harmful components used everywhere. Teachers and staff can reduce plastic use and spread awareness about its impact to make schools more eco-friendly. The most effective way to reduce plastic pollution is to use it minimally. Teachers can encourage students to bring less plastic in their tiffin. Instead of packing outside food, students can bring a tiffin or use non-plastic wraps and cutlery.
Schools can reduce plastic use in cafeterias and encourage students to use reusable or metal bottles. Students can use non-plastic materials for art projects. Education is the key to making the world more sustainable and green. Make students aware of plastic waste and how it harms the environment. Teach them how to use alternatives to plastic.
Environment-friendly transportation
The first and most important step a school can take to promote sustainability and an eco-friendly environment is to encourage walking and public transportation. This can significantly reduce the unnecessary use and burning of fuels that harm the environment. If walking is not feasible, parents can organize group transportation. Schools can also promote the use of electric vehicles, bicycles, and biodiesel as eco-friendly and cost-effective options. By taking small steps, schools can make significant progress toward sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Benefits of sustainable and eco-friendly school:
Health Preservation
Schools that are built with ample space for daylight and ventilation provide a healthy environment for students. This can help reduce breathing issues and provide vitamin D for stronger bones. Healthy paints and carpets are also better for staff and students.
Increased Student Performance
A lack of fresh air and natural light can reduce student attentiveness and make them feel suffocated. In contrast, green schools with a natural environment help students feel refreshed and more focused. This increased attention can improve students’ test scores and class attendance.
Improved Teacher Retention
Eco-friendly schools that save energy can reduce operating costs for energy and water by 20%-40%. School leaders can use these cost savings to fund teachers’ salaries, textbooks, and computers, which can improve teacher retention.
Conclusion:
As we have seen how green technology can make schools more eco-friendly, let’s also understand why green technology is the future of education. Green schools can enhance energy lessons, they can set an example for others so parents and the community can adopt it at their homes. Using digital devices can reduce the cost and waste of paper which provide an opportunity for students to learn about forest conservation. Lesser energy use leads to less carbon emission which reduces ozone layer depletion. Which is very essential for our future survival. These are the reasons why green schools are needed for future education.
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FAQs
1. How can we make our school green and sustainable?
To make a school green and sustainable, start by reducing energy consumption with LED lights and solar panels, recycling paper and plastics, planting trees, and educating students on eco-friendly habits like composting and water conservation.
2. How does green technology help sustainable development?
Green technology supports sustainable development by reducing pollution, conserving resources, and promoting renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, leading to a cleaner environment and long-term economic stability.
3. Why is green technology important in India?
Green technology is vital in India to address environmental challenges like air and water pollution, deforestation, and energy scarcity. Adopting eco-friendly solutions can improve public health, mitigate climate change effects, and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s future.
4. Why is green technology important in India?
Green technology is crucial in India due to its vast population, rapid urbanization, and environmental degradation. Embracing sustainable practices can alleviate pressure on natural resources, enhance energy security, and create employment opportunities while addressing climate change and improving living standards.
5. What are the 5 sustainable green technologies?
Five sustainable green technologies include solar power for renewable energy, wind turbines for clean electricity generation, green building designs for energy-efficient structures, electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions, and wastewater treatment systems for water conservation and pollution control.
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