Chennai’s Green School Initiative: A Path to Sustainable Learning
In Chennai, Tamil Nadu is making strides with its Green School Scheme. This initiative focuses on creating eco-friendly schools that teach students about climate change while reducing energy costs.
Implemented by the Department of Environment and Climate Change, this program has transformed campuses into experimental spaces for climate awareness. It includes features like rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and composting, along with green spaces for gardens.
A study by the Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS) highlights significant benefits. The scheme is being rolled out in 297 schools. In the first two phases alone, 97 schools saw impressive results. Schools reported a stunning 46% drop in electricity use after installing solar panels, with usage declining from about 608 kWh to 328 kWh each month. This means an annual saving of around 3,572 kWh per school, adding up to an estimated Rs 26,000.
For instance, at the Government Higher Secondary School in TN Palayam, Erode, electricity use plummeted from 325 units every two months to just 60 units post-solar installation—a reduction of 50 to 60%.
Despite these successes, some schools still rely heavily on grid power because of high energy needs for things like borewell pumps and outdated electrical appliances. This shows there’s still work to do in improving energy efficiency.
In addition, the state has initiated a “Cool Roof” project in certain schools, reporting temperature reductions in classrooms. A pilot program in Chennai found that classroom temperatures decreased by 3-4 degrees, helping students stay comfortable.
Chief Minister MK Stalin emphasized the program’s goal of creating heat-resistant educational spaces. He noted that such measures not only help with climate issues but can also enhance student focus and attendance, particularly benefiting girls.
Experts have also praised the initiative. Balakrishna Pisupati from UNEP India stated that keeping classrooms safe and cool improves students’ concentration and learning. He highlighted how extreme heat, worsened by climate change, uniquely affects children. Tamil Nadu’s approach shows that practical, scalable solutions can greatly improve lives and contribute to a sustainable future.
Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for the Department of Environment, pointed out that some districts in Tamil Nadu face higher risks of heat waves, intensified by urbanization. The program aims to retrofit schools with cooling solutions, ensuring that students learn in a comfortable, healthy environment.
Overall, Tamil Nadu’s Green School Scheme is setting a vital example. It combines climate education with practical solutions, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
For more information on similar projects and their impacts, you can explore resources like the UNEP Cool Coalition.
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