Board Policy on Sustainability
The Policy Statement for Sustainability
Heathwood Hall Episcopal School
adopted 2010
“Development is sustainable when it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.” - United Nations Commission on Environment and Development
Heathwood Hall Episcopal School recognizes that our times provide us with the opportunity and also the imperative to make decisions that promote the economic viability of the school while simultaneously advancing sound environmental practices. Embracing this challenge continues Heathwood’s tradition as a school committed to innovation and excellence. Seizing this opportunity positions Heathwood Hall to increase its critical mission as a learning community which prepares young people to stand on an intellectual and ethical par with their peers from outstanding schools around the globe. We do this when we equip our students to be servant leaders in a world which calls us to be mindful of and responsive to the needs of all creation.
To meet this challenge Heathwood Hall commits to fostering a culture of sustainability that will shape Heathwood’s practices, curricula and policies. Our leadership in this arena will benefit the school outright and will give direction and inspiration to the wider community. We welcome this platform as a way of embodying our mission.
Academics
Heathwood Hall will continue to provide instruction at all grade levels and in all areas applicable that is focused on sustaining the natural world. Heathwood recognizes that students who understand and practice sustainability have a competitive advantage as they move on to higher education and become the leaders of the next generation. The School will increase environmental education offerings through its co-curricular program as well, most notably in PEAK and Winterim.
Operations and Facilities
Heathwood Hall commits to asking all pertinent questions in considering the economic, ecological and just dimensions of all its actions. More specifically, Heathwood Hall will continue to build on decisions promoting responsible use of energy, water and property, recognizing both the cost and environmental benefits of this. All future building and renovation of existing structures will meet the highest standard of sustainable and energy efficient construction possible, working always to be responsible stewards of all of our resources. Site selection will be made based on the most sustainably sound use of land. Recycling will continue to be practiced to the fullest extent possible, including the goal of composting waste from the dining hall. Heathwood will build on the practice of using environmentally responsible cleaning products where possible. When toxic substances cannot be avoided, they will be used and disposed of in ways which cause the least harm. Heathwood Hall will comply with all relevant laws and strive to exceed regulations as demonstration of our values of sustainability and stewardship. In short, moving forward, Heathwood Hall will take steps to maintain or lessen its current carbon footprint.
Community
Heathwood Hall will collaborate with those in the surrounding community committed to the shared goals of sustainability. The School will continue to offer leadership in the area of environmental activity and practice. Heathwood Hall welcomes the prospect of testing ideas and models which may serve the wider community.
Columbia, SC 29201