A recent survey of marketing executives by Anderson Analytics indicated that “green marketing” is hot. Even though “green marketing” or “going green” are the buzzwords now on the top of the trendy lists, there is a realistic sense of environmental and social responsibility which we all must be cognizant of. Now don’t get me wrong – I am by no means a proponent of those “green” extremists. I do feel, however; a more sensible, balanced and centrist view regarding the environment would do all of us good.
I will tie this into online learning but, before I do, could you do the following:
· Save $250 per year simply with smart landscaping. Strategically planting trees and shrubs to shade your home can lower surrounding air temperatures during warm summer months by up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit and can reduce wall and roof temperatures by 200 to 400 F, reducing energy costs for cooling and home carbon emissions by 3,952 lbs per year.
· Save $798 a year when you perform regular maintenance on your car to keep it running efficiently. Properly inflated tires, for example, can keep 5,800 pounds of carbon from entering the air each year.
These steps, and dozens of others, are all viable but little-known. Did you know that General Electric has saved $6.5 million in electricity costs per year simply by changing its computers’ settings? This can, and does, translate to a professional and personal level.
Most of us in online or distance learning know that convenience has been and will always be an attractive benefit. Studying online – anytime and anywhere – is a major selling point especially for busy, working adults. But how does this translate to “going green?” You can begin by answering the following questions:
· How many pounds of carbon would not be released into the air each year if adult students were not required to attend class at a brick and mortar institution or if there was a limited residency requirement?
· What natural resources would be saved or conserved if an institution did not have to build more classrooms, dining facilities, student service centers or just “light up classrooms?
· How environmentally friendly is a virtual classroom compared to a traditional one?
I wouldn’t say online learning and going green go hand in hand but there is a distinct correlation at some levels. What are some simple “green” steps that you can take personally, professionally, and educationally?