As a chemistry teacher at Paul Kane High School [1], Michael Ng strives to share his passion for science with his students. “I can’t remember how many times I’ve told my students that the way we live is shaped by faith, ethics and chemistry!” he says.

Surfing the web one day, he found the perfect way to show his students how directly their knowledge of science and the environment can be applied to something practical: Project Porchlight. “What got my interest was whether I, as a science teacher, could ever bring my teachings to a real-life experience,” says Michael, whose curriculum focuses on sustainable practises and energy conservation. “I wanted to allow students to share what they learned from their textbooks with their local community.”

With strong support from his school’s science department and administration, Michael introduced Project Porchlight to his students by overseeing the distribution of 450 CFLs at the Paul Kane High School [2] Open House. The event was a great success, and attracted over 50 volunteers for Project Porchlight St. Albert. By the end of April 2008, the students of Paul Kane High School [3] had delivered over 3,500 free light bulbs throughout their community.

Michael is thrilled at the number of students who were inspired to participate in the campaign. “So much of what I teach in my chemistry classes is about energy conservation and renewable alternative energy sources,” says Michael. “I’m just proud to be in a career where I have the opportunity to tie in something practical that will make a difference, like delivering the light bulbs.”

To learn more about how chemistry can be used in harmony with nature, visit the Canadian Green Chemistry Network [4].