Page 3647 - Week 10 - Thursday, 19 September 2019
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schools new, efficient gas condenser boilers are being installed. As an example, at Hawker College, a hybrid gas-electric system is being installed for the first time. Space-use analysis has been completed and the design of the system is almost complete. The system is scheduled to be installed before winter next year.
The program is expected to save 621 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually once all systems are installed. In addition to this program, the heating system at Melba Copland Secondary School is being upgraded using the same principles.
MS CHEYNE: Minister, what are the benefits to schools and students of these upgrades?
MS BERRY: These upgrades are of course about improving environmental sustainability in schools. But they also improve the learning environment for our students. Class environment is one of the factors that influence student learning. A comfortable, fit-for-purpose learning environment is critical for getting the best out of students. Upgraded heating systems improve the comfort of students and teachers, making sure that they can focus on learning. Creating comfortable environments also supports inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel safe and valued and are able to engage in the learning process.
As every Canberra family knows, heating and cooling are energy-intensive activities. By upgrading heating systems in our schools to make them more efficient, the government is making a significant impact on our energy use. Part of the environmental sustainability benefit is a reduction in utility bills, enabling those resources to be directed to other priorities.
And of course it is hugely important that the government set the best possible example for the ACT’s future leaders. Investing in sustainability programs in schools is a critical part of that. I am proud of the contribution that ACT students are currently making to tackling climate change. I hope that the government can continue to encourage their leadership through our own actions.
MS CODY: Minister, how else is the government improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in ACT schools?
MS BERRY: There are many ways ACT public schools are improving their energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. For example, double glazing can make a huge difference to heating efficiency. At Turner Primary School the windows and doors to the hydrotherapy pool have recently been double-glazed. At North Ainslie Primary School the junior school hall and classrooms have been double-glazed. On the south side at Wanniassa Hills Primary School the kindergarten and years 3, 4 and 5 classrooms and staffroom have all been double-glazed. This year we are installing air locks to Gordon Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School’s Melba campus. These projects are due to be completed by the end of the year.
Increasing the number of trees surrounding our buildings also assists with long-term management of heating and cooling and provides students with cool shade in the playground. That is why the government has invested in its tree planting program. The
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