The Jacksonville Public Library, JEA and the Green Team Project are partnering to offer do-it-yourself home energy and water evaluation kits as well as training workshops for consumers.
The kit tools come in backpacks made from recycled billboard vinyl created locally in Jacksonville.
Initially developed several years ago by JEA, the backpack includes the energy efficiency measuring tools to help you conserve energy, identify problem areas in your home and tips on how to fix them.
This year, the backpacks also include new water use evaluation tools to find water leaks and estimate your water costs, discover if your faucets and appliances are water efficient, and determine if your outdoor irrigation system is watering effectively.
The Green Team Project is offering one-hour workshops and demonstrations on the proper use of the kits for those interested.
The 10:30 a.m. Saturday workshops are:
• Jan. 11: Beaches Branch Library
• Feb. 8: Southeast Regional Library
• March 8: Regency Square Branch Library
• April 12: Mandarin Branch Library
• May 17: Webb Wesconnett Regional Library
• June 14: Highlands Branch Library
The kits will be available for checkout with a library card at each of the workshops. Kits are also available for checkout at any library location throughout the year.
This year, the backpacks were borrowed more than 2,000 times, and won a Green Initiative Award from the U.S. Green Building Council North Florida for making a significant impact on sustainability in North Florida.
“For the past several years, we’ve helped people identify ways to make their homes more energy efficient. We’re very excited to be able to expand the backpacks to include water efficiency measurement tools and conservation tips,” said Carrie-Lynn Black, Green Team Project Program Coordinator.
Pre-registration for the workshops is required. Attendance at each workshop is limited to 20 individuals on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and to register, visit greenteamproject.org.