DEP to Hold Two Alternative Energy Workshops for Teachers

Focus on 'Green' Home Construction, Clean Waste Technology

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Environmental Protection announced today it will host two summer workshops to help teachers learn about alternative energy.  

The workshops, hosted by DEP in conjunction with Waste Management and Fresco Green Building Supplies, will offer presentations and site visits to a landfill and a house built using "green" technology.

"As energy and the environment continue to change, it is important that educators know about cutting-edge technology," said DEP Director of Environmental Education Jack Farster. "This information can be put to good use in developing scientific curriculum and in making schools greener."

Participants will learn about solar- and wind-power generation as well as alternative fuel sources, such as biodiesel, compressed natural gas and hybrid engines. The workshops will also educate teachers about DEP's Environmental Education grants, which develop environmental awareness through classroom activity. Workshop participants will be eligible for 6.5 Act 48 credit hours.

The first workshop will be Wednesday, June 22, at the Grand Center Sanitary Landfill in Pen Argyl, Northampton County. The site visit will allow educators to learn how methane gas the landfill produces can be converted to electricity. Attendees will also tour a wastewater treatment facility.

The second workshop is Wednesday, July 20, at Fresco Green Building Supplies in Lancaster, Lancaster County. Participants will tour a home outfitted with alternative energy features, such as solar panels, solar-heated hot water and rainwater capture systems.

Both workshops will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP by June 1 to Ann Devine in DEP's Environmental Education Center at 717-772-1644 or [email protected].

Media contact: Kevin Sunday, 717-787-1323

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection