Objective 2: Operation and Design of School Building
Environmental best management practices (BMPs) are modeled in the operation,
design, and maintenance of the school building and grounds - the school models
what it teaches.
To be a Maryland Green School, your school must demonstrate that it meets at
least 4 of the 7 criteria below:
THES has chosen to focus on the following 4 BMPs: Water Pollution
Prevention, Solid Waster Reduction, Responsible Transportation, and Habitat
Restoration. Projects related to the other BMPs are still allowed.
1. Water Conservation and/or Water Pollution Prevention
The school and/or students practice water conservation and/or water pollution
prevention.
2. Solid Waste Reduction
The school and/or students practice solid waste reduction, reuse, and/or
recycling.
3. Responsible Transportation
The school and/or students promote and provide responsible transportation
options. Examples are carpooling, walking, biking, use of public transportation,
and the use of rain gardens and curb cuts for stormwater runoff.
4. Habitat Restoration
The school and/or students design/enhance, implement, and maintain natural
habitat restoration areas on the school grounds or in the community.
5. Energy Conservation
The school and/or students practice energy conservation.
6. Building Structures for Learning about the Environment
The school and/or students design or implement structures that enhance learning
in the outdoors or improve habitat. Examples are bluebird houses, trails,
signage on gardens and trails, viewing blinds and outdoor classrooms.
7. Healthy School Environment
The school buildings and grounds are managed and maintained to ensure that all
students and staff enjoy the benefits of clean air, clean water, and a healthy
learning environment. Examples are the safe use of chemicals, an Integrated Pest
Management plan, indoor air quality and the purchase of environmentally friendly
products.
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