Team Tidewater Speaks with High School Students

Team Tidewater Project Manager, John Whitelaw, gained the interest of a group of high school students with his presentation on the 2011 Solar Decathlon. St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School hosted its third annual Students 4 Sustainability Conference at the Upper School campus in Alexandria.

Whitelaw spoke to a classroom of eager students, discussing Team Tidewater's design concept and the practicality behind sustainable housing. The discussion ranged from uses of greywater for baths, sinks, and dishwashers, to what considerations are involved in planning for photovoltaic installation. He stressed that one can't simply "slap" a few solar panels onto his or her colonial house. It is important to assess such factors as the direction of the roof, cloud coverage, and overall available exposure to sunlight.


It was evident in the conference that the St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School Saints are well-practiced in everyday sustainable living and the helpful habits that they've begun to incorporate into their lives...both at home and school. Many drank water from non-disposable containers, and the cafeteria served a completely waste-free lunch. Everything was recycled or composted, including the silverware which was made from corn, wheat, potatoes, cornstarch, and recycled paper. Some of the students mentioned their school's plan to install a solar-powered laptop charging station.


We would like to thank the people of St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School for their graciousness and hospitality in hosting such a wonderful event.