Chicago Public Schools Environmental Action Plan
Origin: Chicago Public Schools
Link: Click here
Summary: In line with the City of Chicago’s Climate Action Plan, Chicago Public Schools has released an action plan
meant to significantly reduce energy consumption across the district while maintaining a healthy and productive
learning environment for faculty, students, and staff.
Talking Points & Important Information:
• A 2006 report by the U.S. Green Building Council found that in addition to being healthier and possibly higherperforming, green schools yielded $74 per square foot in savings from energy efficiency, increased attendance,
and teacher retention.
• Other research has linked schools’ indoor air quality to improved academic performance — an important
consideration given that half of U.S. schools have poor ventilation and indoor pollution (high levels of lead,
asbestos, pesticides, chemical fumes, and mold). Finally, studies on “daylighting” and classrooms suggest that
students with the most exposure to natural light perform better.
• For more on the whole school sustaina &