School Bonds for Climate Action
Why are school bonds important for climate action?
School districts use construction bond measures to solicit approval from local property owners to borrow funds (repaid through taxes) that are put towards school building construction and modernization. In this era of rapid climate change, schools are experiencing extreme weather events, and environmental hazards that are increasing in intensity and frequency and causing school closures. It is critical that modernization and construction efforts protect the health and safety of students and staff from these climate disruptions, and that they are designed for long-term climate adaptations.
How do school bonds work?
What resources can be used for including environmental sustainability and climate resilient efforts in school bonds?
New Building Institute’s (NBI) resources for energy and decarbonization efforts:
NBI Decarbonization Roadmap for School Building Decision Makers
NBI School Decarbonization Templates: a number of templates have been developed for school districts to customize decarbonization efforts for energy related modernization and new construction
Access to federal and state incentive programs:
Resources for Reducing Heat and Creating Climate Resilient School Grounds: California Schoolyard Forest System
