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Students Propose Sustainability Suggestions at Symposium

Seniors studying environmental science presented a handful of thoughtful proposals aimed at reducing McDonogh’s contribution to climate change at a campus symposium on Wednesday, March 2. The annual event, coordinated by AP Environmental Science teacher Dr. Josh Jones, was attended by Head of School Dave Farace ‘87, members of the administrative team, Director of Roots Farm Sharon Hood, and Upper School biology students. 

Backed by scientific data and research, among the proposals were:

Installing Green Roofs on campus buildings to lower heating and cooling costs, counterbalance the school’s carbon output, reduce runoff into the local watershed, and provide academic opportunities.

Converting McDonogh’s Bus Fleet to Electric Buses to lessen McDonogh's emissions output, and reduce the potentially hazardous materials on campus. The group suggested replacing two buses each year and noted that buses powered by electricity cost less to maintain.

Adding Solar Panel Canopies to the Woods and Eagle Parking Lots which could supply up to 40% of the school's electricity. The group noted that the roofs could be learning tools for science and math classes, and also protect cars from the elements.

Expanding Sustainable Farming at Roots Farm by introducing agroforestry and regenerative agriculture to restore the health of the soil at McDonogh. This change would also allow for the production of more crops that could be used on campus and in the local community 

Read more about their ideas in the Winter 2022 issue of McDonogh Magazine in the feature story, “Lessons from a Groundhog and More.”