California Cooling Initiative
the problem:
Californians use a large amount of energy during the hot seasons. Air conditioners go on full blast, causing energy waste. In addition, our cities continue to get warmer every year, and dark rooftops and roads are not helping. Many communities are aware of global warming but think that they cannot do much to help save energy; new energy saving technology is quite expensive. Generating some popularity recently, Dr. Akbari's research on "Cool Roofs" shows that white rooftops help save energy and curtail greenhouse gas emissions. Although the government is aware, little progress has been made to inform the public and create stricter building codes to whiten commercial or residential rooftops. Our project aims at sharing this knowledge with our local communities, showing children and adults that they can get involved in painting roofs, an inexpensive yet fun way to help save energy and combat global warming.
vital stats:
people impacted:
2people involved:
2why it's important:
It is important for everyone to know that they can help the environment and combat global warming. Dark roofs and pavement create heat islands in big towns and cities allowing increased heat trapping carbon dioxide in the air, and of course, causing us to use more air conditioning which wastes energy. If we all participate actively in energy saving activities, we can make a difference and show the government that this is an important issue to us.
the plan of action:
Our plan:
1. Learn how to paint a roof properly by consulting a professional painter.
2. Appropriate paint and supplies with the help of donations and grant money.
3. Spread the word to clubs at high schools and colleges about our project, and recruit volunteers to help save energy and have fun doing it.
4.Find businesses and/or residents who are willing to let us paint their rooftops for free, sharing our knowledge about cool roofs.
5. Work with our local elected officials to make sure that we are following the established building guidelines, and/or help change any environmentally unfriendly guidelines.
how you can get involved:
Others can help by 1)finding participating businesses, 2)donating their time to volunteer 3)donating paint and supplies and 4) spreading the word!
project updates:
Related Projects
Related Guides
Tips and Tools:
Action Guides:
Action Tips: Recycle Your Old Cell Phone to Help Our Troops
Recycle your old cell phone to help our troops
