A Few Small Steps

Alongside the roll-out of our community program in Trafford, AfSL is partnering with the council in a pilot project to support six primary schools in reducing their energy consumption. The project is based on the success of measures taken by staff and students at the award winning Woodheys Primary School in Sale and, thanks to the commitment and support of Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (TMBC), and our schools volunteers, 'A Few Small Steps' sets out to achieve ambitious targets that will both reduce the schools' carbon footprints and save them money (particularly useful in the face of rising fuel costs). The 'Don't Be A Waster' promotional campaign will see over 4000 colourful posters put up in primary schools and council buildings around the borough. Posters include tips on the small steps we can all take to reduce our energy usage and feature the campaign's mascot, Snowy the Polar Bear. Concept images for the campaign were devised by students at Woodheys Primary - the UK base for visiting eco-campaigner Snowy - with the help of AfSL staff and local professional artists. Snowy and AfSL support staff will be visiting the six primary schools to help deliver 'Who Wants To Be An Energy Saver' assemblies and recruit student Energy Teams who will be ready to spring into action in October. The launch will be followed by an on-campus support program for each school, including: classroom activities, workshops, assemblies and staff training for teachers and school managers; plus competitions and prizes for everyone that helps to achieve energy savings in their school. According to the Carbon Trust, the average school can save up to 20% on their energy bill through simple behavioural changes that don't cost any money and TMBC's own targets are for a 15% reduction in council-linked buildings within the next three years. For this program the energy savings in each school will be monitored through their student Energy Teams with expert support from Mark Wrigley of Trafford Council's Building & Planning Dept. The successful completion of the project, as measured in KwH savings, will see AfSL awarded further work in other schools across Trafford. We will be sending out progress updates in future newsletters and case studies from each of the pilot schools.In order to achieve our targets, AfSL is recruiting schools volunteers, all of whom will be provided with comprehensive training and support. If you are interested in joining the team, or would like more information, please contact us.