by Sumin Lee
Trash on the floor, recyclable paper being wasted, and an overuse of electricity are all reasons as to why the EAC Sustainability Club is so important for our community. As a newly established, student-led organization dedicated to fostering environmental responsibility, our very own sustainability club provides an opportunity for students to positively support their environment. Meeting every Tuesday after school, the club is open to both middle and high school students and hopes to provide young leaders the chance to develop and implement their ideas for sustainability projects. Additionally, the club aims to inspire its members to take an active role in promoting sustainable practices, starting with EAC’s internal community and soon moving forward to make lasting impacts on our community as a whole.
“Our generation has been affected by climate change, but the following generations and those that come after that will be affected significantly. Placing a greater emphasis on effective support for sustainability is essential.”
– Mr.Colin, EAC Sustainability Club Coordinator
The Inspiration Behind the Sustainability Club
As Mr.Colin aptly stated above, the EAC Sustainability originates from the increasing need for environmental consciousness and, thus effective action within the school community. Small, student-led initiatives can eventually lead to undeniably meaningful change; the EAC sustainability club not only provides a space for students to voice their concerns but to take the initiative and solve sustainability-related issues right on campus. Not only this, but this club aligns wholeheartedly with EAC’s core values, emphasizing the role of students as global citizens who actively contribute to their community.
Moreover, a defining feature of the Sustainability Club is its student-led structure. Mr.Colin will actively facilitate and support the students’ connection with other teachers or administration, thus bridging the gap between students and proper authorities. This effectively allows students to freely express their concerns and possible solutions and allows proper support to be given so that these ideas are implemented effectively. Mr.Colin, acting as the Sustainability Club’s coordinator, is sure to help transform concepts into tangible solutions, all the while, encouraging student autonomy and personal responsibility.
Major Student-Led Sustainability Projects
Currently, the club is focusing on several key sustainability projects as a beginning step for EAC’s health that students can actively participate in:
- Paper Recycling Program: The school produces a significant amount of paper waste, and the club is working on implementing a structured recycling system. This includes reusing scratch paper and ensuring that used paper is properly recycled.
- Energy Conservation Efforts: With air conditioning being a major source of energy consumption, the club has worked on revising guidelines for more conscious energy use. Additionally, solar panels are being explored as a long-term solution to reduce energy dependence.
- Rainwater Collection and Reuse: The school utilizes rainwater capture tanks to collect and reuse water, promoting water conservation as a key sustainability effort.
While these projects are just the beginning, the club has aspirations for more ambitious sustainability initiatives in the future, including partnerships with eco-friendly suppliers and expanded student-led campaigns to reduce waste and energy consumption. While keeping this in mind, it should be noted that these small initiatives are crucial for the flourishing of not only the club but the sustainability of EAC itself. Small actions can have incredible results and so students should take notice and motivate themselves to help support and join the sustainability club.
The Importance of Starting Within the EAC Community
In the same vein, before reaching out to external sustainability efforts, the club recognizes the importance of beginning at home—within the EAC community. By first creating a culture of sustainability within the school, students can build a strong foundation for future environmental initiatives that extend beyond the campus. Nevertheless, the club seeks to make sustainability an integral part of school life, encouraging students to take responsibility for their environment and inspire others to do the same.
Sustainability is not just an abstract goal—it is a necessity, especially for the sake of future generations. The EAC Sustainability Club provides students with the opportunity to take meaningful action, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to create lasting change. However, it is only through internal support and collective effort that EAC can become a model for sustainability which demonstrates the everlasting impact that small but meaningful ideas can grow into. Overall, by fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness, the club ensures that sustainability remains a priority for years to come allowing EAC and its students to flourish.
EAC PRESS 