Energy is the vital force, the spark that makes things happen in our world of light – Te Ao Mārama.
From the tiniest of atoms to the vastness of space, energy is everywhere. Einstein’s insights confirm that energy and matter are intrinsically related – in a sense, we can say that we ourselves are energy! Our cells have evolved over millions of years, surviving and thriving only by successfully adapting to the transformations of energy. And the same is true for all living things in our world today, as without energy there can be no life.
Energy is bounteous, abundant and unlimited, and yet certain forms of energy are finite and rare, and some of our uses of energy are having harmful impacts on our world. This means that looking at how we use different forms of energy is an essential part of a sustainability journey for Enviroschools and communities.
There are five Key Concepts to explore with Energy!:
a) Energy is everywhere – within us and all around us
b) Energy is neither created nor destroyed, and is continuously transforming
c) Our uses of forms of energy have impacts on our world
d) Synergy arises from collective energy
e) We can enjoy the abundance of energy while using different forms of energy wisely
A hard copy of Energy! Theme Area resource is available from your Enviroschools facilitator. A low resolution version can be downloaded below.
To help with planning for learning and action you can access an overview with activities here. Energy! Theme Area Overview
You can find pdf’s of individual Enviroschools Energy! activities here.
