Roscommon Community College first won their litter and waste green flag in 2005. With 128 students in the school and 18 staff, the committee consists of 6 students and 5 members of staff.
Green Code: ‘Always be bright, switch off the light’
They have been increasing awareness of energy consumption by conducting an energy awareness study in the home. A ‘lights off’ campaign at lunch and break is underway. They visited Arigna Mines to see where coal comes from and learn about energy production. The students were also fortunate to visit the Leitrim Windfarm and learn about renewable energy. The school holds competitions to keep recycling levels active.
Achievements;
70% Reduction in no. of electrical units consumed by lights.
From an average weekly consumption of 650 units down to as low as 100.
Increased awareness within the school in the area of light conservation.
Prompted through visualization of signs and an action day. Clear graphs showing progress.
Replaced old double strip lights with single strips.
Light switches painted red so ensure use only when necessary.
Heating oil per student has reduced from 16.9 litres per student in 2004 to 15.2 litres per student in 2006 attributed to the new energy saving system installed 2005
ESB costs have also significantly reduced from €42 per student per year in 2004 to €39 per student per year in 2006.
Students constructed a model house powered by alternative energy sources. Solar panels were fitted to the roof and wind turbines powered the light fittings, aided by the fieldtrips and a visit from Duncan stewart