The Decarbonization Roadmap Guide is written for those interested in healthy, efficient, carbon neutral school design, construction and operation. It outlines achievable goals that result in healthy, affordable, all-electric facilities, and explains common actions taken by leading districts to operationalize their carbon neutral ambitions.

Different stakeholders are likely to interact with this framework in different ways, and the guide shares examples of how this can be done. In addition, the guide links to resources and templates that can be customized locally. While these resources are written with public schools in mind, they can also be used for private schools as well.

We are witnessing the consequences of rapid, widespread, and intensifying climate change. Our students are demanding a more hopeful and sustainable future, starting with better environments than the aging, unhealthy, and underfunded school buildings where they currently learn.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to aging HVAC systems and what is necessary to create healthy indoor environments without the penalty of increased utility bills. This combination of factors is inspiring school districts to address health, student experience, and carbon emissions from schools in a holistic way.

As a major form of public infrastructure that spans buildings, land, and transportation fleets, school systems offer an opportunity for emissions reductions that also positively impact the health, wellness, and resiliency potential of entire communities.

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