- The School District of Palm Beach County
- Sustainability Programs
Environmental and Conservation Services
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Sustainability Programs
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School Recycling Programs
The District's Sustainability initiative is led by ECS and provides resources and guidance to schools and departments interested in waste reduction and recycling, energy and water conservation, and other green practices that support a healthy school environment.
In coordination with Facilities Services, ECS works to uphold Board Policy 7.197: Waste Reduction, Materials Reuse and Recycling. The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the implementation of a District-wide waste reduction, materials reuse, and recycling program and is designed to underscore the importance of resource conservation.
Programs include:- Electronic Waste
- Ink and Toner Cartridges
- Waste Paint
- Paper
- Cardboard
- Commingled (plastics #1-7, aluminum and glass).
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School Sustainability
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, sustainability creates and maintains the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. The District supports this principle by cultivating green schools, coordinating school-based waste reduction programs, and facilitating resource conservation through education and awareness.
In collaboration with District School Food Service, ECS supports school gardens and the District's Wellness Promotion Board Policy 2.035. -
Recognition
The School District of Palm Beach County (District) has been recognized at state and national levels for its commitment to sustainable practices. The State of Florida has recognized the District as a Gold Level Florida Green School District. Nationally, the District has received the prestigious U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools Green District Award.
Schools may earn recognition at the state level through the Department of Environmental Protection's Green School Designation Program. The program’s environmental guidelines help primary and secondary schools evaluate operations, set goals and take specific actions to improve environmental performance. Designated Green Schools create a healthier environment for students, employees and communities. Reducing water and energy use and reducing waste help lower operating costs.
Only schools that are designated GREEN through the state can be eligible for the highest recognition at the national level, the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Program. The District has three Green Ribbon Schools:- Pine Jog Elementary School (2012)
- Gove Elementary School (2018) and
- Highland Elementary School (2020).
