Lesson Description:
The first part of this audit can be done during daylight hours. It simply looks at the types and numbers of light bulbs used in the parking lot and outside areas of the school. Additional audit questions for the outdoor lighting of your schools follows this audit. (Note: You may need to speak to the head custodian to determine the number of hours each night the lights are on and the wattage of the lightbulbs. Night lighting will most likely vary from month to month so consider calculating an average for the entire year.)

Take Things a Step Further:
There are more things to look at and think about as you investigate the energy use in the parking lot and outside areas of the school. Some of these items involve observing the school grounds at night. Consider taking an “outdoor tour” of your school on a night of a school dance or a sporting event when the school is most lit up. Other lighting issues can be  addressed by speaking to the principal, head custodian, athletic director, or grounds keepers. It is fine if you may unable to get answers to all your questions. Thinking about the outside lighting in a new way and to raising awareness within the school community is also important.

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Lesson Type:

• Audit

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Sustainability Topic:

• Energy
• Green Building

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GEF Program Category:

• Green Building Program
• Green Energy Challenge

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