Sustainability at Wilton High School
A word from our principal:
"It's the small things that make a difference"
The Wilton High School principal Dr. O'Donnell believes that having sustainability goals and initiatives is important. Each student can play a part to make our school more environmentally friendly. One issue Dr. O'Donnell pointed out was the use of plastic water bottles. Many students choose to throw them in the trash instead of using the recycling bins. Our school also has water bottle refilling stations that can help students reduce the use of plastic bottles. Wilton High School has also implemented solar power and converted from petroleum to gas fuel sources. He says that the school is constantly working to optimize energy use by decreasing energy consumption while the building is not in use. In an extended interview, Dr. O'Donnell mentioned the school's use of green cleaning products and the recycling program.
WHS Recycling & Gardening Club
The Wilton High School gardening and recycling clubs work to make WHS more environmentally conscious. Recycling club participates in local events like the Wilton Go Green festival and creates school events like Thank a Custodian Day. The gardening club donates plants and even provides fresh produce for the cafeteria.
Textile Recycling
Wilton High School recently added textile recycling bins in the entrance to the senior parking lot. Old clothing and other textiles can be recycled in these bins. Items like shirts, linens, hats, gloves, and even old shoes can be recycled. Some textiles are reused and others are recycled into other products. This promotes local sustainability and decreases unnecessary waste.
The full list of accepted items can be accessed here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ft5NIfFZzjtBloQv-QmYdYRB9ulf4zHAEB8Unngw8yY/edit
Local Organizations
Wilton Go Green
Wilton Go Green is a prominent Wilton group that hopes to "promote and support efforts by the Town of Wilton and other Wilton organizations to achieve environmental sustainability." Their website provides many resources to improve local sustainability. They also host many local events like the WGG Festival.
Recycling Programs
The Wilton Transfer Station, located on Mather street, recycles many items free of charge. They accept tech like printers and old computers, clean metal glass and plastic, CFLs, all batteries, and clothes or shoes. There is a more detailed list available on their website. This program makes it easier for local families and businesses recycle.
Wilton Conservation Commission
The Wilton Conservation Commission manages town owned open spaces and local resources. They work to educate locals on conservation issues, as well as promote recycling and green energy practices. The website has many useful links and resources that provide information on conservation.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Environmental regulation is key to conserving the environment. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) works to conserve, improve and protect natural resources and the environment in Connecticut. DEEP has three branches that manage different resources. The Energy Branch, Environmental Quality Branch, and the Environmental Conservation Branch. Their goals are to create energy and environmental policies and programs, lower the cost of electricity, and increase conservation efforts and innovation.