It's not easy being green - but worth it

This year in Science class one of our main focuses was being "green". We learned about different ways to conserve energy and which methods of practicing energy conservation were good for our school. We also learned why going "green" is important and how we can plan for our future.

First we did a research project to find out various ways to conserve energy. We identified methods such as wind turbines, solar panels, solar lights and Lutron Lights. All of the ideas involved some form of using natural resources to power our school. Wind turbines used wind, solar lights and panels used the sun's energy and Lutron Lights used green light. They were all good ideas but not all of them would work for South.

On paper wind turbines looked good, but as we continued our research we found that the turbines were expensive and if they fell, might damage our school. We had already purchased some Lutron Lights but it would be expensive to power the entire school with them. We found out that solar panels were the best for us because they use the sun's energy and they have little maintenance.

Learning how to be "green" is important to know as well as practice. As we are now aware, our planet isn't in the best shape. It is very important that we figure out what we need to do to preserve our planet. Whether it be turning off a light when you leave a room or buying a "green" car, conserving our precious resources is critical to our future. Some of the ways to be green are quite simple, such as not leaving water running while brushing your teeth.

I realized that being "green" isn't that hard. When Mark Kirk came to our school he made me aware that we can be "green", we just need to act. Through our research I learned that there are other forms of energy besides solar power.

Conserving our natural resources is crucial. In order to get kids more committed, South and other schools should continue research projects like the ones we conducted during this school year.

If we continue our bad habits Earth will not be around much longer. We need to be environmentally friendly and help conserve this great planet. I learned that in small ways I could really make a difference.

Nick Schwingbeck

8th grader, South Middle School

Arlington Heights