FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Getting started
We are looking at sustainability at our school but are not sure how to get started. What do you suggest?
Answer
If you look at the Action! page of this web site you will see some suggestions. Most schools find it helpful to set up a Change Team with representation from all members of the school community, especially pupils. You could then look at the page ‘what could we aim for’ and follow the link to the DfES s3 tool; completing this will help you decide where you would like to start. The pages on this web site provide a lot of information and contact details for people who could help you.
For example, you may already be following the Healthy Schools programme; you could opt to do the Sustainable Schools focus area. If you are not recycling you could contact Julie Price at CountySupplies (01962 826910) to sign up to the recycling contracts; over 70% Hampshire schools are now signed up and they are open to all. There are many others who can help you with energy and water, recycling, your grounds, travel plans and more. Just look at the appropriate page on this site for more information.
Question: Old computers
Can you give me advice on disposal of computer equipment please?
Answer
The County Council has made an arrangement with Seek-IT, a Hampshire-based company which reuses and recycles Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). If you look on the Purchasing and waste area of this web site, under ‘Recycling other materials’, and scroll down to bottom of the page you will find some information and a link to Seek-IT.
Question: New buildings
Have you any suggestions as to how we can put sustainability into practice for our new building? We are keen to include renewable energy technology and would like some advice on funding.
Answer
You would need to speak to your Strategic Planning Officer to raise your requests early on in the project; he or she can give you advice on what would be appropriate for your school. All new builds are now required to be to BREEAM ‘very good’ standard. The HCC architects employ environmental consultants for major builds, so there is a holistic approach to sustainability.
There are a number of web links on the energy page of this web site that might be useful; for external funding please see the Low Carbon Buildings Programme.
Question: Solar energy
I am making initial enquiries into solar photovoltaic modules as a means of reducing our electricity bill and adding to the national grid.
Answer
Generally speaking, HCC Property Managers would recommend ensuring that energy efficiency is addressed before considering renewable technology measures. If you are planning this as part of a new build, the Strategic Planning Unit and Architect involved in the build would be able to advise you about what would be appropriate for your site.
You might also find the following useful: British Photovoltaic Association, Energy Savings Trust, Low Carbon Buildings Fund. Alan Dowdell, HCC's Energy Manager would be able to visit the school and advise on energy efficiency measures (01962 847768.)
Question; Office furniture
Over the summer holidays we will be refurbishing our science and maths rooms. Quite a lot of old equipment will be ‘thrown out’, including desks, chairs and stools. Is there a programme which collects and recycles such equipment instead of it ending up in the skip.
Answer
There is a not for profit social enterprise called Green-Works, tel 0845 2302231, which redistributes or recycles redundant office or school furniture. They have a warehouse in Portsmouth.