ENERGY AND WATER CONSERVATION FOR THE BASIC EDUCATION UNIT

October 9, 2015
 
To: The Basic Education Community
 
ENERGY AND WATER CONSERVATION FOR THE BASIC EDUCATION UNIT
 
With a campus as large as ours, it is important to bear in mind the energy and water resources that we consume.  Our use of water and electricity has become so much a part of daily life that it is easy to take it for granted. 
 
As a sustainable campus, the Ateneo de Manila University recognizes that water and energy are resources that need to be conserved.  While the University is already undertaking programs to reduce our water and energy consumption such as through the provision of natural rainwater storage systems, wastewater treatment, recycling, and the use of energy-efficient lights and equipment, we enjoin the community to participate!
 
It is our duty and responsibility to be more aware of our personal consumption in order to use electricity and water wisely.  Please consider the following water and energy conservation guidelines.
 
GUIDELINES ON LIGHTING
1.       Turn off lights during break time and at the end of the day.
2.       Unplug equipment after use when applicable.
3.       As much as possible, keep windows unobstructed to allow the entry of natural light.  Curtains or blinds may be partially opened to counteract the effect of heat from the sun. Clean mosquito screens regularly for better ventilation.
4.       Maximize the use of natural light.  If sunlight is enough to illuminate the room, please avoid using the overhead lights.
5.       Report flickering or dimming light bulbs immediately to help ensure that all light fixtures are operating at their full potential. Clean light bulbs and diffusers of dust and cobwebs regularly to fully optimize expected illumination.

 
GUIDELINES ON TEMPERATURE CONTROL
1.       Maximize the use of natural ventilation as much as possible. Open all windows during regular hours.
2.       Use less consumptive ways of cooling such as electric fans, whenever possible.
3.       Increase the efficiency of air conditioning units (ACU) through the following guidelines from the Ateneo Institute of Sustainability (AIS):
a.       Thermostat control is set at 21-23°C.
b.       Turn on/off ACUs 30 minutes before start and end.
c.       Turn on ACUs only as needed and on a staggered basis to prevent power surge.
d.       Ensure that there are no blockages in front of the ACU and check that the vents are turned upwards to allow for more efficient circulation. Clean ACU filter regularly.
e.       Report defective ACUs (e.g. compressor fails to stop automatically, noisy, vibrating, dripping, with open edges) immediately to your unit FMSO.

GUIDELINES ON THE USE OF COMPUTERS AND OTHER ELECTRONICS
1.       Use energy-saving settings for computers and other peripherals such as photocopying machines, printers, scanners, etc. This will allow such equipment to switch to power saving mode after long periods of inactivity.
2.       Religiously practice CLAYGO for appliances
a.       UNPLUG, NOT JUST SHUT OFF/DOWN ELECTRONICS AT THE END OF THE DAY.  Most electronics still consume electricity even if they are turned off but remain plugged.
b.       Make sure that all computers and LCD projectors are switched off and unplugged when not in use for long periods of time.
 
GUIDELINES ON WATER CONSERVATION
1.       Make sure that all faucets are fully closed after use.
2.       Avoid leaving the tap running and use a glass when brushing your teeth.
3.       Report leaky faucets, toilets, water pipes, and drinking fountains immediately to your unit FMSO.
4.       Use dual flush toilets properly. 
5.       After flushing the toilet, make sure that there is no excess water running in the bowl.  If this happens, report it immediately to your unit FMSO so they can check the valve of the water closet.
6.       Clean pavers and corridors regularly as the use of a pressure washer wastes a lot of water and energy.
 
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND COOPERATION!  WE ARE ALL RESPONSIBLE STEWARDS OF GOD’S CREATION.  LET’S PRACTICE MAGIS… THIS TIME FOR THE ENVIRONMENT!
 
 
MA. VICTORIA PANLILIO-DIMALANTA
Facilities Management and Security Officer for the Basic Education Unit
 
 
Approved by:
 
 

 
 
Endorsed by:
 
 
 
Fr. Anthony C. Pabayo, SJ
Vice President for Basic Education