By learning how to save energy, Fulton Elementary School in Columbia, Maryland is raising money that will go toward creating a better learning environment.

The first annual Fall 2012 STEM Day was held at the school on October 26. It's aim was to educate students, faculty and their families about ways to incorporate the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics into making a more environmentally friendly world.

The day-long event was administered by agents and representatives from greeNEWit, an organization designed to support awareness about sustainability and promote energy efficient construction.

Students were given incentives to experiment with sustainable technology in their day-to-day lives from the greeNEWit team in the form of prizes for individuals and the school. By participating in the organizations Energy Saving Incentive program, students could help Fulton Elementary earn the Green School Certification awarded to schools with significantly reduced utility consumption.

According to a press release from the school, the money saved through energy consumption reduction will be used to fund extra-curricular activities and field trips that will further the goal of STEM Day and get students excited about future activities related to energy efficiency.

Reports from the Department of Energy (DOE) show that more homeowners than ever are voluntarily taking part in sustainable upgrades to make day-to-day living more affordable. The DOE reports that more homeowners than ever will be taking part in the Energy Star program in 2012, which grades homes and appliances on their rates of consumption.

To make your home more sustainable, an energy audit from a home inspection contractor can highlight where utility waste is occurring in your house and how to curb it.