The Green Corner
The Acadia Students Union building (ASU) is currently sporting a lovely wind-turbine and solar panel on its roof top, the result of an engineering project that was underway a couple years ago. Technical difficulties were encountered, interest waned, and the turbine and solar panel have remained disconnected ever since. In the Fall semester 2008, there were suggestions of removing the equipment from the rooftop; however the SO, AES and other individuals on Acadia’s campus did not want to see that happen. After a few meetings, it was determined that the wind turbine and solar panel may not be able to generate as much electricity as hoped, but would be at least be able to power an electrical socket that would be available to students. The instalment, for now, would be more symbolic. We wanted to expand on this concept by involving the idea of past SO coordinators. Their vision was to revamp the corner in which the renewable energy control panel is located, and turn the space into a Green Corner.
The Green Corner will be a space with informative displays on renewable energy and sustainability, potted plants, and eventually a green wall. A green wall (or living wall of plants) is already planned for the new Biology building, and we hope to use this design sometime in the near future. Students will be able to relax on the sofa in the Green Corner with their laptop and admire the displays. The Green Corner will be a permanent visual reminder of Acadia’s dedication to environmental sustainability and education.
At the beginning of the Winter Semester of 2009, funds for the project will be determined. We hope that the wind turbine and solar panel will be connected shortly thereafter, leaving time to complete the Green Corner by the end of the semester.
Any comments or questions can be forwarded to the Sustainability Office (sustain@acadiau.ca).