Crabapple Crossing Commended for Being Green

was among four Georgia schools commended by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle Monday morning for their efforts to be green.

Crabapple Crossing, which is located in Milton, and three others were nominated to represent Georgia in the National Green Ribbon Schools contest, launched this year by the U.S. Dept. of Education to award conservation-minded schools. The other Georgia schools are Arabia Mountain High School in DeKalb County, Springdale Park Elementary in Atlanta and the Savannah Country Day School.

According to a press release from the Georgia Dept. of Education, Crabapple Crossing can win up to $10,000 — pledged by the Turner Foundation — if it is one of the schools recognized with a National Green Ribbon.

The Green Ribbon program draws attention to schools that promote the “three pillars” of green school activity — 1. Optimal efficiency in energy, water and waste management; 2. Healthy students and school environment; and 3. Environmental education.

According to the press release, Crabapple Crossing excelled in many ways, including: an outdoor water efficiency plan that decreases the need for irrigation; diverting more than 32 tons of material in its recycling program last year; an outdoor habitat that includes a science lab for every grade to be used for hands-on education.

The school also has been tracking energy consumption since 2007 through the Energy Star Portfolio Manager. It is an Energy Star Certified School, and a member of the Evergreen School Program.

Crabapple Crossing also is a Clean Air School, which works with The Clean Air Campaign to help reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality through commute alternatives and no-idling programs.

The deadline to become a Clean Air School for the 2011-2012 year is Friday, March 16.

"In these challenging times, school systems across the state are embracing innovative ideas to reduce costs and focus on the classrooms where students learn," Lt. Gov. Cagle said during a commendation Monday at the State Capitol Building. "I'm proud to launch the National Green Ribbon Schools contest to recognize Georgia schools that are implementing groundbreaking tools to reduce their energy costs."