How to Encourage Students to Go Green
Going "green" has been an alluring way to live life for many people, while to others it may seem a little bothersome to go out of the way for the environment, or deviate from a personal routine that doesn't employ "green" habits. To ensure the survival of and quality of life on the planet, going "green" should begin in the classroom. No one can be forced into a "green" lifestyle, but a good teacher can encourage better habits, or increase awareness of the fragile environment and ecosystem.
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Instructions
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Tell your students the benefits of "green" living. Such benefits could include properly inflating tires to gain optimum gas mileage. Another benefit to suggest would be carpooling to decrease carbon monoxide emissions, and save money on travel. Encourage younger students to walk, or ride their bike, rather than ride in a car with mom or dad. Explain that exercise at a younger age builds healthy muscles, and in turn, helps the environment by decreasing emissions.
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Encourage the students to purchase a tap water filter, or a filtering container instead of buying bottled water. Let the students know the amount of money they will save by using a readily available water source as opposed to buying a bottle at a time. Encourage younger students to ask their parents to use a water filter by having them point out the money that could be saved at home, and mention the better taste of filtered water as opposed to non-filtered tap water.
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Encourage your students to save energy by keeping their computers, stereos, video games and all other electronic devices turned off and unplugged when not in use. Explain to them the drain these devices cause on the power, and the amount of money they could save with a lower energy bill especially if they share an apartment or house with other students. Less money spent on energy equals more money to spend on holidays and spring break. Encourage younger students in grade school to save energy as well. The less money their parents spend on energy bills, the more money that could be applied toward future college, allowance or a car.
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Tips & Warnings
Cite statistics to your students about the benefits of re-using products rather than repeatedly buying disposable plastics, batteries and paper plates.
References
- Photo Credit a blue recycle symbol image by wayne ruston from Fotolia.com
