Our Mission
The Imperative for Sustainability Action in Our District
As the third largest school district in the nation, CPS recognizes that sustainability—especially concerning school facility operations, resource management, and environmental health—is essential to addressing the global climate crisis. It also plays a valuable role in supporting the District’s five-year plan– Together We Rise.
The Sustainability Action Plan supports all three priorities—students, schools, and communities—by helping to create a healthier and more sustainable district. By implementing proactive sustainable operations strategies CPS can protect our students from the most damaging future environmental scenarios, save public funds through operational efficiency and increase the resiliency of our localities.
While providing environmental and climate education, we will create conditions for our students to solve core environmental challenges; succeed in college, career, and civic engagement; and contribute to the cultivation of just, sustainable and thriving communities.
Sustainability Action Plan
Pillars of the Plan
Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Environmental Impact
Our facilities, capital operations, transportation, and nutrition services are significant sources of GHG emissions. To dramatically reduce our environmental impact, Pillar 1 focuses on transforming how we operate our physical footprint.
Create Healthy and Resilient Learning Environments
Our students deserve safe, comfortable, and healthy spaces to learn. Pillar 2 focuses on the direct environmental health of our buildings, how they’re managed and operated to provide clean and safe learning spaces and their ability to withstand extreme weather.
Empowering Future Leaders & Green Pathways
Meeting the challenges we face requires our students to experience environmental education that supports scientific literacy, conservation mindsets, and personal and cultural relevance. It also requires a skilled workforce in areas related to resiliency and supporting the advancement of a clean built environment and an equitable economy. Pillar 3 is targeted at ensuring our students are fully equipped to be future leaders.
Sustainability Programs
Learn about how we're working to reduce climate impact through our sustainability projects and strategies.
Sustainability in Action
Discover how energy, sustainability, and conservation efforts are making a difference for Chicago Public Schools.
Contact
For more information about Energy and Sustainability at CPS, contact Energy and Sustainability Staff, at energy@cps.edu.