Projects
The main goal of the Eco-Club is to reduce the environmental impact (ecological footprint) of its members and to educate the students and local community on environmental and sustainable issues. Students can be involved in some of these important projects aimed at reducing the community’s negative impact on earth.
- Clean Water Initiative
- Clean Energy Initiative
- Green Car Initiative
- Tree Planting Initiative
- Wetlands Initiative
Water, especially clean water is essential for good health and survival of mankind. Many countries are struggling to provide clean, accessible water to their people. Students can take up this challenge and partner with organizations like cleanwaterinitiative.org to help bring safe clean drinking water to developing nations.
“Every child deserves to grow up with water that is pure to drink, lakes that are safe for swimming, rivers that are teeming with fish. We have to act now to combat these pollution challenges with new protections to give all our children the gift of clean, safe water in the 21st century. ”
Global Warming. Air Pollution. Energy Crisis. Where are we heading? Most people believe there is nothing they can do to change things. But as Students, you can do something, and collectively make a real difference. Students can be more Energy Efficient. Turn off the television when not in use – no standby. Use energy-saving light bulbs. Choose a green car. Walk, cycle or use public transport whenever it makes sense. Students can create a plan to tackle it – raise awareness, raise money, conduct demonstrations, campaigns, etc.
“Time’s running out. Act now!”
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We all know that cars and other motor vehicles impact our environment in many ways. But do we really know how? Vehicular emissions include major pollutants like carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, hydrocarbons, and particles. These Greenhouse gases contribute to global warming and climate change. Noise pollution is another major impact. The best way to solve these problems is to buy energy efficient cars like electric or hybrid vehicles. But this may cost a lot of money. The other alternative is Eco driving. Students can play a major role in promoting good driving habits like Eco driving. This a way of driving that reduces fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and accident rates. It’s about driving in a style suited to modern engine technology: smart, smooth and safe driving techniques that lead to average fuel savings of 5-10%.
Golden rules of eco driving:
* Shift up as soon as possible
* Maintain a steady speed
* High gear and low engine RPM
* Anticipate traffic flow
* Decelerate smoothly
* Check the tyre pressure frequently
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Why are trees important?
Trees are one of the most useful and cost effective way to reduce pollution and clean the air. Since trees absorb carbon dioxide and give out oxygen, it is beneficial for the human population and the environment. Trees also cools the environment and provides shade during hot seasons. Last but not the least they beautify the neighborhood. Students can play an active role in increasing the urban forest and revitalizing the neighborhood. Some ways they can help with tree planting
– volunteer with local organizations which are involved in the tree planting program
- organize fund raisers and provide monetary support to these organizations
- have a tree planted at the local park
- actively talk to the public about the importance of urban forests
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Wetlands are areas where either water covers the soil or water is present at or near the soil surface. Water can also be present within the root zone, all year or just during various periods of time of the year. They are neither just land, nor just water. They can actually be both at the same time, or seasonally aquatic, or terrestrial.
Wetlands are considered valuable because they clean the water, recharge water supplies, reduce flood risks, and provide fish and wildlife habitat. In addition, wetlands provide recreational opportunities, aesthetic benefits, sites for research and education, and commercial fishery benefits. Students can get involved in wetland protection in many ways:
– Get involved & find out where wetlands exist near your home, try to learn more about them, and support educational efforts.
- Support wetlands and watershed protection initiatives by public agencies and private organizations
- Encourage neighbors, developers, and state and local governments to protect the function and value of wetlands in your watershed.
- Learn more about wetland restoration activities in your area; seek and support opportunities to restore degraded wetlands.
- Purchase federal duck stamps from your local post office to support wetland acquisition.
- Follow the State and Federal Wetland Regulations. State and federal laws and regulations mandate what you can and cannot do to wetlands on your property.
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