Energy is everywhere! Energy powers our lights, computers, refrigerators, video games, air conditioners and so many other things we use every day. But did you know that using energy often burns fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas that pollute the air? Earth is also running out of fossil fuels, which are a limited resource.
Explore Environmental Elementary for tips on how to be energy-smart.
- Recycling saves energy! Did you know that recycling an aluminium pop can saves 95 per cent of the energy it would take to make a brand new can? Recycling glass saves 33 per cent energy.
- You know that button you can push to open the door? It uses electricity. Unless you really need help, use those big, strong arms of yours to open it yourself. Be kind and hold the door open for others too!
- Did you know we can make electricity from wind? Wind energy comes from wind farms that have huge windmills called "wind turbines". They spin in the wind and collect energy, which is then turned into electricity.
- Fans are great because they keep you cool and use a lot less energy than air conditioning. But don't forget to turn the fan off when you leave the room. An empty room doesn't need to feel cool!
- Hope that game uses rechargeable batteries! You can use them over and over again. When they run out, you plug them in and recharge them. This means less energy is used to make new batteries.
- Did you know that making one tonne of recycled paper uses only 60 per cent of the energy needed to make one tonne of regular paper? Ask your family to buy notebooks that are made from recycled paper. Save energy and trees!
- Is that whistling you hear? Oh no! That sound means air is escaping through tiny cracks. This wastes energy because the heat or air conditioning is getting outside. Tell your teacher so the leak can be fixed!
- Hey - where is everybody? All the lights are on but the gym is empty. What a waste of energy. Turn those lights off please!
