Sustainability

ETHS has implemented a variety of energy-saving upgrades across its buildings to reduce environmental impact and lower costs. Older lighting has been replaced with energy-efficient LEDs, and new windows have been installed to improve insulation and conserve energy. Additionally, the district upgraded to a steam absorption cooling system, which reuses waste heat to cool buildings more efficiently, further reducing energy consumption.

ETHS is committed to reducing waste across the district through a variety of initiatives. Digital communication is prioritized to minimize paper use, and single-use plastics—such as water bottles and disposable cutlery at events—are being phased out in favor of reusable alternatives. The district also promotes hydration stations and uses Monster Water tank with biodegradable cups at events to further reduce plastic waste. Expanded waste sorting programs encourage recycling and composting, helping students and staff make more sustainable choices every day.

• Using non-disposable lunch trays that are washed and reused in student cafeterias
• Eliminated single-use containers in the Terrace (staff cafeteria) and replaced them with reusable dinnerware, flatware, and takeaway containers
• Eliminated single-use milk cartons in student cafeterias and replaced them with bulk milk dispensers and reusable cups
• Composting food waste in the ETHS kitchen
• Separating waste for recycling and composting in ETHS cafeterias
• Purchasing refurbished furniture for some ETHS offices
• Supplying vending machines with canned water and sodas instead of plastic bottles
• Reducing single-use plastics
• Reducing printing and paper waste through Google Classroom, the school-wide online Learning Management System.
• Conducting annual food waste audits in cafeterias to identify potential expansion opportunities 

Recycling is a key part of ETHS’s sustainability efforts and is available throughout the district—in every cafeteria, hallway, office, and classroom. Clearly labeled recycling bins make it easy for students, staff, and visitors to sort materials correctly. By integrating recycling into daily routines, the district helps reduce landfill waste and encourages the entire school community to take responsibility for sustainable practices.

• Using non-disposable lunch trays that are washed and reused in student cafeterias
• Eliminated single-use containers in the Terrace (staff cafeteria) and replaced them with reusable dinnerware, flatware, and takeaway containers
• Eliminated single-use milk cartons in student cafeterias and replaced them with bulk milk dispensers and reusable cups
• Composting food waste in the ETHS kitchen
• Separating waste for recycling and composting in ETHS cafeterias
• Using green seal cleaning products (80%)
• Using green and environmentally friendly pest control plans and products
• Using “clean” refrigerant for AC units and appliances
• Purchasing refurbished furniture for some ETHS offices
• Supplying vending machines with canned water and sodas instead of plastic bottles
• Reducing single-use plastics
• Purchasing plastic garbage bins made from 75% recycled materials
• Recycling of IIT electronic equipment
• Repurposing of electronic equipment via donations
• Recycling of IIT electronic equipment
• Repurposing of electronic equipment via donations

ETHS supports sustainable grounds maintenance and campus biodiversity through a variety of practices. Electric, automated lawnmowers reduce emissions and noise, while new tree plantings and carefully maintained green spaces enhance the campus environment. Additionally, stormwater management strategies help protect local waterways and support the health of the surrounding ecosystem, creating a more sustainable and welcoming campus for students and the community.

• Using green seal cleaning products (80%)
• Using green and environmentally friendly pest control plans and products
• Using “clean” refrigerant for AC units and appliances
• Using biosolids to fertilize athletic fields
• Purchasing plastic garbage bins made from 75% recycled materials
• Installing more bike racks at ETHS to support bicycle transportation
• Using biosolids to fertilize athletic fields

ETHS promotes sustainable transportation options to reduce the district’s environmental impact. New bike racks and electric vehicle charging stations make it easier for students, staff, and visitors to choose eco-friendly travel. The district also partners with the City of Evanston for events like “Anything But a Car Day," encouraging alternative modes of transportation and fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the community.

ETHS incorporates sustainability into its food programs by sourcing a portion of cafeteria ingredients locally, supporting regional farmers and reducing the environmental impact of transportation. The district also maintains school gardens, which provide fresh produce for meals and offer hands-on learning opportunities for students about gardening, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. These efforts help promote healthier, more environmentally responsible food choices across the school community.

ETHS provides students with opportunities to learn about sustainability through curriculum, extracurricular activities, and special events. The district hosts awareness initiatives and an annual Climate Justice Conference that centers student voice and advocacy, giving students a platform to explore environmental issues and propose solutions. These programs help students develop the knowledge and skills needed to become active, informed participants in creating a more sustainable future.

• The Geometry in Construction classes build Wildkit houses with green standard materials
• Urban Agriculture class in the renovated ETHS greenhouse
• REEL lab for environmental science class
• Farm to School program (ETHS yields produce from three garden spaces)
• Courses in the Nature Center (wildlife habitat, protecting native species plants)

ETHS organizes hands-on initiatives like community cleanups and awareness events throughout the year. These programs foster a sense of shared responsibility for the environment and encourage collaboration between the school and the broader community, helping to promote sustainable practices both on campus and beyond.

ETHS and City of Evanston staff meet regularly to discuss sustainability issues. Partnerships with the City include environmental benchmarking and recycling. ETHS also hosts an annual recycling event with the City each summer.  

More information about the City’s sustainability efforts can be found at www.cityofevanston.org/about-evanston/sustainability. 

• Compost pickup by local Collective Resource (food waste)
• Energy Team Charter signed with CLEAResult
• Rebate program with supplier for LED purchases, resulting in savings of tens of thousands of dollars
  • In addition to being more environmentally friendly, the LEDs cost less to operate and the ballasts last longer. This means less waste and lower replacement costs in the long-term.
  • The ETHS engineering staff replaces the lights and ballasts so that there are no outside labor costs.
• Siemens automation control system (on site and remote control of fans and temperatures throughout the building) 
• Strategic Energy Management Program (ETHS joined in partnership with CLEAResult, sponsored by NICOR and ComEd)
• The Talking Farm (Edible Acre and the Edible Orchard provide healthy foods served at ETHS) 

• Using reclaimed rainwater on athletic fields for irrigation
• Installing a reclaimed water garden at Lake Street Tennis Center
• Installing water fountains with bottle fillers to encourage reusable water bottles
• Installing water-efficient dishwashers in the kitchen
• Installing motion-activated faucets
• Using low-flow sink faucets in restrooms
• Using sensor-activated toilet flushers
• Using timers on all pool and locker room showers