Calhoun Goes Green

Listed below are some of the initiatves Calhoun has taken to reduce its carbon footprint. Also included are plans for future projects.

ECO-FRIENDLY and ENERGY-SAVING PROGRAMS

• GREEN ROOF: Calhoun's Green Roof, which was opened in May 2005, provides real environmental benefits in terms of energy savings (heating and cooling insulation); contributes to a reduction in water run-off and carbon dioxide emissions; and provides a natural habitat for insects and birds. The Green Roof is also the home of Calhoun's herb garden. Read more>> See photos>>
• HERB GARDEN: An herb garden on Calhoun's Green Roof is harvested for use in the School's lunch program. See photos>>
• COMPOSTING: Fourth graders started "worm composting" during the 2007-08 in their classrooms; compost goes to the Green Roof Herb Garden. The Food Service staff also composts its food scraps to fertilize the Green Roof herb and flower gardens.
• RECYCLING: The school community has recommitted itself to recycling, with receptacles placed throughout the school buildings for bottles and paper as well as batteries. Student Green Groups are trying to educate their peers; the maintenance staff has also received instruction on the separation of recycled materials. It is an ongoing effort! 
• REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS: Calhoun student Green Groups are selling Calhoun reusable shopping bags, to educate and encourage community members and to raise money for environmental initiatives. [For purchasing information, see Calhoun Store.] 
• NO IDLING CAMPAIGN: At the behest of fourth graders who were studying air quality, the school installed NO IDLING signs in front of each of its buildings, and informed parents and vendors that the 3-minute "no idling law" (car, bus and truck engines left running) would be enforced. [read more; see the video]
• PAPER USE: Initiatives were put into place by administrative departments, faculty and the Parents Association to cut back on paper use and to use recycled paper. The school has moved almost all publications to electronic format, on the web site.
• CHEMICALS USAGE: The School maintenance staff has switched to eco-friendly, biodegradable cleansers.
• LIGHT BULBS have been switched to flourescent
• WATER COOLERS: The school has switched to bottleless water coolers that connect directly to the school's water system.

IN THE PLANNING STAGE 

• CARBON FOOT PRINT ANALYSIS: Looking at ways to cut energy useage.