Grayslake, IL—Grayslake North High School was presented with an award from North Shore Gas for its commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in recognition of its recent implementation of a CarbinX carbon capture unit into its building’s heating system. The school hosted a ceremony to celebrate the installation of innovative technology and its role in a step toward environmental sustainability and education.
The partnership between Grayslake North High School, North Shore Gas, and CleanO2 began through the North Shore Gas Efficiency Program, which provided rebates for energy-efficient upgrades at the school. This collaboration paved the way for installing the CarbinX unit. The technology captures carbon emissions and transforms them into pearl ash, which can be used to create products like soap and laundry detergents.
Caption: Soap made from CarbinX-produced pearl ash.
The collaboration was made possible by the combined efforts of Dan Gonzalez, Director of Facilities & Grounds at District 127, Dan McGowan, North Shore Gas Account Manager, and the North Shore Gas Energy Advisory. Their dedication to energy efficiency and sustainability has positioned Grayslake North High School as a leader in environmental stewardship.
"We are incredibly proud to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts with the installation of the CarbinX unit at Grayslake North High School," said Dr. Mikkel Storaasli, Superintendent of District 127. "This innovative technology reduces our carbon footprint and is a powerful educational tool for our students. It demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and provides a unique opportunity for our students to engage with real-world solutions to global challenges."
Caption: Dr. Mikkel Storaasli, Superintendent, and Dr. Jim Roscoe, Principal of North, with the newly installed CarbinX unit.
“The Grayslake North CarbinX unit will reduce emissions by nearly 7 metric tons of CO2 per year,” says Thomas Manjarres, Technical Lead at North Shore Gas Energy Efficiency Programs. “That is enough to offset the CO2 emissions from charging 449,000 smartphones, or equivalent to planting enough trees to cover the entire footprint of Grayslake North High School and football stadium.”
Installing the CarbinX unit makes Grayslake North High School the first public school in the world to use this pioneering technology. This achievement underscores the school's leadership in sustainability and its dedication to exploring new ways to minimize its environmental impact.
Caption: Grayslake North Students from the Environmental Club pose with the new CarbinX unit.
In recognition of its efforts, Grayslake North High School has also been invited to the 2024 Energy Forum, where it will be acknowledged as a leader in promoting a clean energy future. The forum will provide an opportunity to explore new technologies and strategies for further enhancing energy efficiency at the school.
In addition to the CarbinX installation, Grayslake North High School will expand its partnership with North Shore Gas to offer guest speaker sessions, internships, and job-shadowing opportunities for District 127 students. This initiative aims to provide students with firsthand experience in industry-standard jobs, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in the growing energy efficiency and sustainability field.
For additional details about the CarbinX technology and our partnership with Grayslake North High School, North Shore Gas, and CleanO2, visit the CleanO2 website.
Grayslake North High School continues to lead by example, demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable future and providing unique learning opportunities for its students and community.
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