Timely Presentations Planned for Environmental Awareness Week

Published 04.17.2008

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The Energy Conservation Subcommittee of the Governance Facilities Committee will host a series ofrelevant discussions in observance of Environmental Awareness Week (April 21-24).

Each day's program will take place between noonand 1 p.m. Monday's presentation will be held in CC, Room 164. On Tuesday through Thursday, the daily events will be held on the CC patio, near the Children's Learning Center playground.

Monday
"Off-Grid Home," with Thomas J. Anderson; noon-1 p.m.
Ever dream of having your dream home? Learn about the motivations, feasibility, principles and methods of building an off-grid, energy-efficient home in Pennsylvania, from the perspective of someone who is doing it.

Tuesday
"Sustainable Design," with Thomas E. Ask; noon-12:30 p.m.
The design decisions made when developing new products and buildings will have a powerful effect on the environment. What materials and design approaches are best for the environment? How do you separate myth and wishful thinking from hard facts? Some materials and "green" technologies consume a tremendous amount of embodied energy that may not be reflected in their market price. This presentation will present the impact of embodied energy and sustainability as they apply to design.

"In Your Own Back Yard: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Restore," with Gail B. Landers; 12:30-1 p.m.
What have you recycled today? In Celebration of Earth Day (April 22), share how we all can help the Penn College community become more environmentally friendly. (And, because Tuesday also is Election Day, remember tovote to help Pennsylvania's future!)

Wednesday
"Green Tips From Students" Noon-1 p.m.

Penn Collegeseniors participating inRick Taylor's"Environmental Impacts of the HVAC Industry" class will present timely information on topics including "You Can Make a Difference," "Use Programmable Thermostats," "Buy Efficient Appliances" and "Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems" All are welcome and questions will be answered.

Thursday
"Rain Barrels,"with Marcia H. Campbell; noon-12:30 p.m.

Rain barrels are containers that collect and store rainwater from rooftops. This collection system provides valuable opportunities for water conservation, prevents stormwater runoff and decreases household water usage while providing rainwater for landscapes and gardens.

"Composting," with Marcia H. Campbell; 12:30-1 p.m.
Composting is nature's way of recycling organic materials, which form a rich soil-like substance when broken down by microorganisms. Composting reduces the amount of yard waste, kitchen scraps and paper items that are deposited into landfills.