Green Computing for K-12 Schools
Growing public concern over greenhouse effects, concerns over safe disposal of e-waste, and local K-12 school district needs to conserve funding are forcing schools to address green IT issues as a matter of conscience, budget and political value.
The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) Green Computing Leadership Initiative provides tools, tips, and resources for school technology leaders to help reduce their school district carbon footprint.
Take the lead for your district, setting an example for students and the community at large. For broader school-wide sustainability programs, unite with other schools to take action on climate change and the environment by joining the Green Schools Alliance. Also, NEA (National Education Association) has developed a "Green Across America Groupsite" - a meeting place that provides educators interested in green schools and environmental education with a shared calendar, discussion forums, member profiles, photo gallery, file storage and more. Finally, become a US Dept. of Education Green Ribbon School, or check out their website for resources to provide a healthier and more energy efficient learning environment.
Share Your Green Computing Story
Take a few minutes and share your green computing success with other school technology leaders.
Certification
Go for Green Computing Certification from CoSN and EPEAT.
It's easy - check out the Green Computing Certification Guide
Technology Energy Use, including Calculator
Energy use calculator to estimate kilowatt-hour use and related cost for your current and planned computing and network infrastructure, plus tips and resources concerning reduction of power consumption.
Purchase and Disposal
Resources and tips for making responsible computer purchases with consideration for disposal.
Reduce Waste and Save Natural Resources
Often referred to as Green IT 2.0; resources and tips for using computers to reduce waste and preserve natural resources, reducing the overall carbon footprint for your school or district.
Resources
General information from CoSN and other organizations to help you understand issues, set achievable and verifiable goals, and set an example for your district or school. Resources include organizations, articles and white papers, presentations, case studies, and blogs and feeds.
Green Computing News
Green Computing news items of interest to K-12 school technology leaders.
Go to the news page and click on the RSS Feed icon (
) to receive news as it is posted.
Permission is granted under a Creative Commons Attribution License to replicate, copy, distribute, transmit, or adapt the information on these pages provided attribution is provided. © CoSN 2010.