Keep the Green Habits Growing This Summer

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we are celebrating a year of learning, curious minds, and environmental leadership across schools in Nova Scotia.

Over the past year, GSNS Engagement Officers have connected with students and staff through both virtual and in-person school visits, bringing energy education, sustainability workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities to communities throughout the province. While summer break offers a chance to relax and enjoy the warmer weather, it is also a great opportunity to continue the green habits we have all been building throughout the school year. The choices we make at home can help reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and create a more sustainable future for Nova Scotia. 

Remember: every little action helps to shrink our ecological footprint, and when many people take small steps together, the impact can be significant.

Simple Summer Energy-Saving Tips

Turn Off Lights When You Leave a Room 💡

One of the easiest ways to save energy is to switch off lights when they are not needed. Making this a daily habit can help reduce unnecessary electricity use.

Unplug Electronics When They’re Not in Use 🔌

Many electronics continue to use power even when turned off. We call that phantom power! Chargers, gaming systems, televisions, and other devices can draw electricity while plugged in, so unplug them when possible or use a power bar that can be switched off.

Keep Cool Naturally 🪭

Open windows during cooler mornings and evenings to let fresh air circulate through your home. Closing blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day can also help keep indoor spaces comfortable.

Walk, Bike, or Roll 🛴

If you’re heading somewhere nearby, consider walking, biking, or scootering instead of taking a car. Using our own body’s energy helps us to stay healthy while also reducing emissions.

Take Shorter Showers 🚿

Heating water requires a lot of energy. Cutting just a few minutes from your shower can help conserve both water and electricity!

Wash Clothes in Cold Water 👚

Using cold water for laundry can significantly reduce the energy needed for washing clothes, and most detergents work just as effectively without hot water.

Use Natural Light ☀️

Take advantage of the longer summer days by opening curtains and blinds instead of turning on lights indoors.

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle ♻️

Before throwing something away, think about whether it can be reused, repaired, donated, or recycled. Reducing waste helps to save the energy and resources needed to make new products.

Small Actions Create Big Change

Throughout our school visits this year, we shared an important message: every little action helps. Whether it’s turning off a light, unplugging a charger, choosing to walk, or using less water, small everyday actions can add up to meaningful environmental benefits.

This summer, we encourage students, families, and communities across Nova Scotia to keep the momentum going. By continuing the energy-saving habits you’ve learned throughout the year, we can help create a greener, more energy-efficient province for everyone.

Thank you for adopting green habits in your schools and communities. Have a safe, fun, and energy-efficient summer! 🌱☀️