Climate: Energy and transportation

Learn about ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve energy.

The climate benchmark highlights school-based energy conservation and transportation initiatives. We promote initiatives that lower greenhouse gas emissions and help to address climate change. Conserving energy can also help schools save money. Utilities are the largest expense for schools and school districts after salaries. Additionally, about 25% of commute time in King County is spent transporting students to and from school. By working on the climate benchmark, schools and districts can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create healthier communities.

School criteria for recognition

Fill out the School Climate: Energy and Transportation recognition form when you have completed the following criteria:

Complete a climate mitigation or greenhouse gas reduction project involving students and an adult advisor(s). Contact your program representative for project ideas.
Conduct a Waste Walk Through (WWT) every year.
Share your climate goals with the rest of your school. Examples could include assemblies, newsletters, announcements, or social media posts.
Share your climate mitigation efforts and progress with your program representative.

Recognition form

Fill out the School Climate: Energy and Transportation recognition form. You may fill out the form to receive your benchmark badge at any time during the school year. Contact your program representative if you need assistance filling out the form.

You can complete the recognition form over multiple sessions using the "Save" button. You will be emailed a link that allows you to continue filling out the form. Once the form is complete, select the "Submit" button.

Check out all the schools and districts that were recognized for Climate: Energy and Transportation in 2025-2026.

District criteria for recognition

District staff will be invited to apply for recognition once at least 50% of their school are participating in the Green Schools Program. Find the district recognition criteria for this benchmark in the District Benchmark Guide.

Once criteria are met, district staff can fill out the District Climate: Energy & Transportation recognition form.

Climate: Energy and transportation resources and activities

Interested in learning more? Check out our resource list for more detailed information on this benchmark topic.

Success stories

At Benjamin Rush Elementary School in Lake Washington School District, students collected data informing them how many cars idled in the parking lot at pickup each day. They graphed the results and published their findings in the school's weekly newsletter to inform families. Through PowerPoint presentations and videos shared during weekly announcements, students also spearheaded a campaign that encouraged everyone to walk, ride bikes, carpool, or ride the bus to school.

Medina Academy students learned about the carbon cycle and explored ways to reduce carbon emissions within their school community. While each classroom is equipped with dimmable light switches, students encouraged classmates and teachers to use natural light from windows whenever possible. In addition, students supported a "No-Idling" campaign by providing gentle reminders to drivers to turn off their engines during student drop-off and pick-up times. School leaders also connected families that live near each other to set up carpools. Through these combined efforts, students learned how individual and community actions contribute to reducing carbon footprints and protecting the environment.

Students from Arbor Montessori School looked at energy bills for their school. They walked through the school and identified areas where they could conserve energy so that they could reduce the energy bills. Students posted signs by light switches to remind people to turn off the lights when they left the classroom. Students also made checklists for everyone to take home that encouraged families to turn off lights at home.