In celebration of Earth Week 2015, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin Thursday visited Spring Garden Elementary School in Bethlehem, PA, to praise Bethlehem Area School District administrators, faculty and students for taking action on cutting carbon pollution that fuels our changing climate.

“The Bethlehem Area School District is an environmental leader and EPA commends you for the actions you’re taking to address one of the most significant public health threats of our time – climate change,” said Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “By committing to operate your schools using more sustainable practices, making them greener and energy efficient, while incorporating environmental learning and awareness into your curriculum, the District is empowering its students to build a more sustainable future.”

The School District has committed to taking action on climate change by reducing energy use and developing a plan for reducing greenhouse gases.  Solar panels supply nine percent of the District’s total power needs.

Since becoming an EPA Energy Star partner in 2010, Bethlehem Area School District has achieved Energy Star certification at 16 of its 22 schools.  Regional Administrator Garvin presented an Energy Star certificate to school officials today recognizing Spring Garden Elementary for earning the 2015 Energy Star rating.

The District’s Broughal Middle School is a top-rated LEED Platinum school, and in 2013 won a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon award for environmental excellence.

For more information on EPA’s related programs visit the Healthy Schools, Energy Star, Climate Change and Student Guide To Climate Change webpages.

NewsClip: DEP Awards Environmental Education Grants

4/27/2015