**Climate Change: Urgent Action Needed from Public Schools**
**Letter to the Editor**
Already this summer, we have witnessed the alarming consequences of runaway climate change. Extreme heatwaves, poor air quality, unpredictable storms, flooding, and food insecurity have become a harsh reality. However, scientists warn that if we fail to take aggressive action against climate change, these issues will only worsen in the coming years.
Despite the challenges we face, there is some good news to report. At the federal level, the Inflation Reduction Act has allocated an unprecedented level of funding to combat climate change. In Minnesota, the 100% clean energy Bill was passed during the last Legislative session, demonstrating the state’s commitment to addressing climate change. Additionally, 22 cities in Minnesota have declared a Climate Emergency, advocating for decisive action. These developments are encouraging, but it is important to acknowledge that urgent climate action should have been taken decades ago.
Moving forward, the question remains: what’s next? The simple answer is that we must continue to push for action at all levels and institutions within our society. One crucial institution that can play a leading role in addressing climate justice is our public school system, particularly St. Paul Public Schools.
Firstly, K-12 public schools are the largest consumers of energy and possess the most extensive collection of public infrastructure in the country. By taking aggressive measures to Reduce Emissions, public schools have the potential to make significant progress in combating climate change.
Secondly, as we transition towards a green revolution, millions of workers will be needed for green jobs. Public schools are responsible for preparing our children to enter the workforce and benefit from the transforming economy.
Thirdly, public schools operate the largest mass transit fleet in the nation, consisting of approximately 480,000 diesel buses. By electrifying this fleet, public schools could contribute to substantial emissions reductions.
Fourthly, the voices of our planet’s children are calling for action on climate change. Public schools have the power to amplify these voices and advocate for necessary societal, economic, and social changes.
Lastly, prioritizing climate action in public schools is simply the right thing to do. Our children, particularly children of color, are disproportionately affected by the effects of climate change. As public schools focus on preparing children for their future, it is crucial to ensure that they have a future to look forward to.
In conclusion, our planet is in crisis, and urgent action is required. It is imperative that public schools take the lead in addressing this crisis. By Reducing Emissions, preparing students for green jobs, electrifying their fleet, and amplifying the voices of young climate activists, public schools can make a significant contribution to combating climate change.
Tom Lucy
St. Paul Resident, St. Paul Public Schools employee
Original Story at communityreporter.org – 2023-09-10 14:15:22
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