Doing Our Share - The School Campaign to
Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Revised February 2007

 

Global Learning and the New Jersey Sustainable Schools Network have undertaken this campaign to involve schools and students in positive efforts to reverse global warming.

The goal: To help New Jersey's public and private schools cut their GHG emissions by at least 20% below their 2006 levels by 2020.

 

Global warming is a problem that affects New Jersey, particularly regarding sea level rise. Governor Corzine singed Executive Order 54 on February 13, 2007, establishing greenhouse gas reduction goals of 20% by 2020 and 80% by 2050. The initial steps are a very doable cut of 1.5% of energy usage per year.

New Jersey contains several thousand school buildings and 19,000 school vehicles. Schools contribute significantly to the State's GHG emissions and thus can contribute significantly to achieving and surpassing these reduction goals.

The impetus for change can and will come from a variety of levels within the school system, including

  • students
  • teachers 
  • staff 
  • facilities managers
  • administrators
  • board of education members
  • parents and concerned citizens.

This, therefore, is a unique opportunity to involve students in the study of a significant global issue in a way that will empower students to take concrete problem solving steps rather than be overwhelmed by the challenge.

Global Learning’s primary recommendation for schools to combat global warming is to institute the Green Schools Program. In the 2005-06 school year, Green Schools helped Brick Township Schools and Toms River Regional Schools reduce their greenhouse gases by more than 1,500 metric tons of CO2.

What you can do:

   

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tel: (732) 281-8929