Living Green

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is dedicated to encouraging good stewardship of Earth, the planet we all share. The facility has been designed to exceed environmental standards by 20%, and efforts are constantly made to minimize the impact of construction on the surrounding land by preserving existing landscaping and tree lines. Many of the construction materials used in the creation of the new facility are recycled. Much of the new landscaping includes native, drought-resistant plants.

The original Christa McAuliffe Planetarium has a small solar array that has been producing power for the grid since 1999. In 2007, the Planetarium was recognized with an Energy Efficiency in State Government award for reducing its energy consumption by 34% by upgrading its theater technology. Most of that energy savings came in the form of LED cove lighting, which reduced the energy consumption to 700 watts from a whopping 35,000 watts.

Some of the programs at the Discovery Center also cater to promoting the environment and awareness of how unique Earth is. Planetarium show Breathing Space conveys the realities of climate change and is available for school groups and private events for younger audiences. Ice Worlds, a show for all audiences, demonstrates the delicate balance of the Earth's climate and how global warming is destroying the world's polar caps, creating real problems for all living things.

What can you do to help the environment? Environmental conservation is a global effort so even small changes by individuals can have a far reaching effect. Think about the possibility of adding photovoltaic panels or solar hot water systems to your home to offset electrical bills! Your town may also allow for wind turbines, and many towns, states and countries offer some sort of rebate for energy saving additions to your home. If that is not in your budget, not to worry! Save on grocery bills by planting a garden. Even in urban settings, gardening is a possibility with small, raised beds or container gardens! Recycling is the easiest and most cost-effective way to help the environment. Almost all materials can be recycled - even food scraps! If you do not have space for a traditional out-door compost bin, there are many in-door possibilities as well. There are a lot of easy things that you can do every day to both help Earth and your wallet.

Green Resources

Clean Air - Cool Planet
www.cleanair-coolplanet.org

Earth 911
www.earth911.com

Tree Hugger
www.treehugger.com