About Resource Conservation

What is Resource Conservation?
Resource Conservation is a combination of resource management and conservation. A "natural resource" is something that is typically found in nature and is necessary or useful to humans. This includes things like natural gas, water, oil, and electricity. The focus of the Seattle Public Schools Natural Resources Conservation Program is long-term, sustainable measures and practices that reduce consumption of natural resources and seek out alternative energy and green technologies.

Why Conserve Resources?
For Our Students
These practices set good examples for students.  Teaching conservation is a great way to instill responsibility and accountability.  What better way to teach than through example?  Conservation is also a great opportunity to use the classroom as a laboratory with practical application. Rising fuel prices, limited resources, and air pollution are just a few reasons.
For Our Schools
In addition to having limited resources, most utility rates are steadily rising. Seattle Public Schools spent almost $9 million on utilities in 2005-06. Through being aware and changing our energy consuming habits we can save money on electricity, natural gas, water, and garbage collection, leaving more money for the classroom. Every person that interacts with a District facility has an effect on how much we spend to operate it.  Do you remember to turn off the lights when you leave a room, or do you forget?  Whether we are conscious of it or not that light continues to use electricity long after we walk away.
For Our Environment
We impact our environment and the world around us every day.  Through conservation and environmental stewardship we can reduce some of the negative impacts.  Wasting resources contributes to many environmental problems such as global warming, water pollution, habitat degradation, and acid rain. When we conserve energy and water, reduce solid waste, and utilize green alternatives, we help reduce and prevent environmental damage. Conservation is not about being cold in the dark. It is using only what we need, recognizing wasteful usage and eliminating it.