Green learning curve
A new national report finds that energy-efficient schools bump up test scores and enhance students' and teachers' health.
Environmentally friendly school designs typically cost around 2% more up front than conventional schools, but they deliver financial benefits that are 20 times higher than those of conventional schools, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Greening America’s Schools: Costs and Benefits, an analysis by AIA and Capital E, a consulting and assessment firm, examines 30 green schools built in 10 states between 2001 and 2006. The analysis finds that schools that implement clean technologies save money by consuming roughly 33% less energy and 32% less water. The better lighting, temperature control, ventilation, and indoor air quality also contribute to higher student test scores. The same enhancements keep both students and teachers in school because they come down with fewer cases of asthma, colds, and flu. Overall, green schools save an average of $100,000 annually, the report concludes.
