The petition
We, the undersigned, request that all new or substantially reconstructed schools in the city of New Orleans conform to the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Schools standards. We urge the Governor of Louisiana, the Louisiana Recovery Authority, the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), the State Legislature, the Recovery School District (RSD), and the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) to commit to achieving, at a minimum, a LEED for Schools Silver certification.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the significant quantitative benefits of green schools. For example, one study (1) revealed a positive correlation between green schools and lower operating costs and reduced adverse health effects. Findings show that:
* Green schools use an average of 33% less energy than conventional schools.
* Green schools use an average of 32% less water than conventianl schools.
* Schools with improved air quality have an average of 38.5% reduction in asthma.
* Green schools cost less than 2% more than conventional schools – or about $3 per square foot – but provide financial benefits that are 20 times as large.
Another study (2) involving more than 21,000 students showed a dramatic correlation between daylit school environments and stronger student performance. These findings demonstrate:
* 20% faster progression in math.
* 26% faster progression in reading.
* Views out of windows increased academic performance by 5-10%.
In addition to a healthier indoor environment, increased academic performance, reduced adverse health effects, and lower operating expenses, green schools are better for the environment. Green schools use less energy, less water, incorporate non-toxic materials, and can make positive contributions to the local ecosystems. Green schools can also serve as a teaching instrument themselves, showcasing green technologies to students and local communities.
By improving the learning environment and saving the school system money, green schools can improve the futures of thousands of students and provide incentive for residents to move back to a better, more sustainable New Orleans.
Please sign this petition and help make greener New Orleans schools a reality.
(1) "Greening America's Schools: Costs and Benefits." Gregory Kats, Capital E. (October 2006)
(2) "Daylighting in Schools," Heschong Mahone Group. (August 1999)
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