LETTER: Can we cut down the heat we experience and get to a little cool heads for us and our cities? Yes is the answer. It is about insulating the buildings.
Insulation acts as a barrier to heat loss and heat gain, particularly in roofs and ceilings, walls and floors. May be this is what we need now offset the heat we are experiencing now. While planting more trees and going green does help here too.
We could also help reduce heat by installing solar panels and grow a roof garden but they are dependent on fans and air conditioners. Global warning, after all, is at our front door.
As I see it, insulation is the most practical and cost-effective way to make school buildings more energy-efficient. Some claims suggest that up to 40 per cent can be saved with proportional reduction in heating and cooling bills.
In addition, insulation may reduce condensation and reduces dampness. To insulate is also a kind of protection when you take into consideration the lifespan of a building.
Unlike other energy-saving steps that require significant lifestyle changes or financial commitments, installing and maintenance for insulation is simple and arguably affordable.
In the long-run, this initiative may mitigate the effects of drastic climate change we experience today. On energy-saving ways, I suggest school use fans while the use of air-conditioners should be minimal.
Schools should also be encouraged to use compact flourescent bulbs instead of incandescent ones. Most importantly, all of us and especially school-going children should be reminded to switch off appliances that are not in use.
Also, turn off computers, laptops and the television when not in use. Spread the message and influence others. We can go a step further by educating family members, friends and classmates. The time has come for us to save on electricity and save the planet.
MARDE K
Petaling Jaya, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times