Divine Infant one of 24 schools receiving recognition for meeting reduction target for 2008-2009

The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) saved more than $2.2 million in energy costs over the past year.

Stephen Blais, OCSB trustee for Orléans Cumberland is applauding schools in his ward for the success in the board's energy management plan.

"The OCSB is leading the way in being energy efficient," said Blais. "In the past four years, we have saved more than $7.5 million, and that's money we are able to invest into our classrooms."

The energy reductions since the program's inception are equivalent to eliminating emissions from over 3,700 cars.

"Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing our society," added Blais. "In addition to saving millions in tax dollars, our energy management plan has led to important reductions in the green house gas emissions that cause climate change."

The OCSB set baselines in both electricity and natural gas consumption when it introduced the program in the 2003-2004 school year, where the board consumed 58,451,159 kw/h of electricity and 5,937,946 m3 of natural gas.

In 2008-2009, the OCSB consumed 40,969,267 kw/h of electricity and 4.902,113 m3 of natural gases. This year, the board also introduced water reduction initiatives which saved the OCSB $24,835.

Blais said the board was able to initiate a two prong approach, where it was able to educate staff and students which led to changes in individual behaviour. The board also invested in energy efficient improvements to facilities.

"Our school communities are encouraging local change that supports planet friendly behaviour that will ensure a sustainable future for our children," said Blais. "Our energy management plan is consistent with these values and provides an opportunity for our board to be a leader in the field."

Divine Infant Catholic School is one of 24 schools across the board receiving a plaque of $500 for its involvement with being a leader in being energy efficient.

The school's environmental club hosts a number of initiatives over the course of a school year to promote the importance of climate change.

For the third straight year, the Orléans school will receive a plaque for meeting its energy reduction target.

"The staff and students at Divine Infant deserve a lot of credit," said Blais. "As we move forward with this plan, it is my hope that every school in the board will exceed its targets."