Does your residence hall have what it takes to save the most energy? As part of Campus Sustainability Month, we’re partnering with EcoReps to host a week-long energy reduction competition between on-campus residence halls. As a resident, you play a key role to reducing waste within your residence hall—this is also a great opportunity to learn environmentally sustainable behaviors!
The EcoReps Energy Saving Competition starts Monday, October 16th and lasts until Sunday, October 22nd. The winning residence hall will have a special party with food! We’ll be updating the standings daily on @rhagt and at the bottom of this page!
Tips & Tricks for Reducing Energy Use
- Open blinds for natural light instead of turning on the lights.
- Turn off lights when not in use.
- Keep AC/HVAC close to outside temperature.
- Conserve water—heating water takes a lot of energy!
- Unplug all appliances when not in use.
- Report any drips or leaks by submitting a maintenance request.
- Only wash your laundry when you have a full load, wash laundry on cold.
- Air-dry instead of using a dryer.
Why is Energy Conservation Important?
- Georgia’s energy profile is only 12% renewable.
- Non-renewable energy emissions contribute to climate change and harm human health.
- Air pollution is responsible for deaths related to lung cancer, stroke, and ischemic heart disease.
- BIPOC are more likely to live/work near dirty energy sources, therefore exposed to 1.2-1.5x more to particulate matter than white non-Hispanic people.
As a resident, you’re an important part in reducing the negative environmental effects of on-campus residence halls! While you may not be paying for utilities now, the ability to reduce waste by practicing environmentally sustainable behaviors is an essential skill that will help you transition to living on your own.
Who’s Winning?
This challenge has ended. Congratulations to the Graduate Living Center!
