Essentials Magazine | Vol. 73 No. 4 | Page 7

air quality. Carnegie Mellon University has shown in studies that there is an average overall health improvement rate of 41 percent due to improved indoor air quality. By improving indoor air quality, green schools can improve the health of students, faculty and staff, potentially decreasing sick days.” Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council. “We’re seeing the importance of healthy, sustainable schools become a mainstream conversation, and policy makers on both sides of the aisle are recognizing the benefits and taking action.” LEGISLATING GREENER PRACTICES PAVING THE WAY FOR GREENER PRODUCTS Mr. Rossolo went on to say, “This past year alone, nearly half of the country’s state governments have debated and discussed legislation aimed at increasing greener practices in schools. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education presented its first Green Ribbon Schools recognition awards, which honor schools that reduce their environmental impact and costs, improve the health and wellness of their students and staff, and provide effective environmental