The Langley School District is dedicated to creating a culture of energy conservation through investment in energy efficient technology, awareness, education and facility upgrades.
The District has made this commitment to reducing carbon emissions in order to leave a positive legacy for the future, as explained in Administrative Procedure 546.
"The District takes it as its responsibility for ensuring that every effort is made to conserve energy and resources in order to reduce the District's carbon footprint. This requires an ongoing, integrated and systematic approach to energy management, including assessing performance, setting goals, creating an action plan and tracking and communicating results."
That commitment can be seen in the District's Facilities, Transportation and Capital Projects department. The transportation fleet is the second-largest carbon emissions emitter (counting for about 10 per cent of the District's emissions), but through recent government funding opportunities, the District has accelerated its plan to switch to electric vehicles. The District currently operates two electric school buses, as well as seven white electric vans and one plug-in hybrid fleet vehicle.
To keep up with future additions to the District's electric fleet, agreements are in place with BC Hydro and the federal government to expand vehicle-charging infrastructure across the District over the next 10 years.
"Energy conservation and green initiatives such as moving to an electric fleet are a priority for the Langley School District. We are excited about the work we have done so far and know more can be done, and we look forward to taking those steps in the coming years for future students in our growing district," said Secretary-Treasurer Brian Iseli.
Moving towards net-zero emissions for building is another priority, and the District has taken steps including adopting heat-pump technology at schools and other District sites; last summer, for example, heat pumps were installed at both Willoughby Elementary and the Facilities and Maintenance building. As well, the District continues to transition and install LED lighting throughout its schools and other buildings. It's estimated that there are 30,000 fluorescent lights and bulbs throughout the District, and once they are all replaced with LED technology, it is estimated that there will be an annual energy savings of around 950,000 kWh.
"I'm passionate about finding energy efficiencies in our system as there are many benefits," said Ronald Lam, District energy specialist. "It is not only good for reducing our carbon emissions but the cost-saving in the long-term means the District can keep funds in the classroom where they are needed the most."
When it comes to recycling and green waste, the District has already started to improve its recycling program, which includes organic collection, as well as glass, metal, plastic and paper recycling. Blue bins for recyclables, green bins for organics and black bins for waste are located within District schools.
There are also a number of student and staff-led initiatives at District schools, including Green Teams and Environment Clubs, that promote recycling, sustainability, and reducing carbon emissions.
For more information, visit the District's Energy and Environment webpage.
