Sint-Calasanz (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Sint-Calasanz Primary School’s 460 children experienced a day without electricity to learn about energy conservation. Kathleen Truyts initiated the project to highlight the importance of responsible energy use, teaching students that energy is finite, costly, and environmentally impactful.
At Sint-Calasanz Primary School, 460 children are having a school day without electricity. The lights are off, and it is cold inside. Computers cannot be used. Kathleen Truyts started this plan to show kids how important energy is. She wants them to think about using energy wisely.
According to Truyts, energy is not endless. It costs money and affects the environment. By turning off the power, the school hopes kids will notice how much they rely on energy every day. She stated that the project demonstrates how small changes can save a significant amount of energy. Turning off lights when leaving a room and lowering the heating when it is unnecessary can make a difference.
She stated that by forcing kids live without electricity for a day, the school hopes to teach them about energy conservation. This is not just about one day without power. It teaches kids to be responsible and care for the environment. They can use these lessons at home and in the future.
“We take a lot for granted, but it isn’t. Energy costs money and it requires raw materials. We hope that thanks to our campaign, the children will be more careful with energy.”
Says Truyts.
How do small changes contribute to energy savings?
According to officials, at Sint-Calasanz Primary School, kids are learning how small actions can help save energy. They are taught to turn off lights when leaving a room and wear a heavier sweater instead of heating up.
They are also taught not to waste water by turning off the tap when they brush their teeth. Students are encouraged to keep the door of the fridge closed to conserve energy. They mentioned that these simple changes help them understand how their daily habits can protect the environment.
According to the officials, as part of this program, students get a chance to learn about energy use in a fun way. They ride a stationary bike to feel how hard it is to make electricity. Pedalling helps them understand that energy is not free and needs the effort to produce. After they finish, the school turns the electricity back on to show that energy should be valued and used carefully.