Green Schools
Schools across New York are recycling, reducing waste, saving energy, conserving resources, preventing runoff pollution and working to eliminate toxic materials. In addition to the long-range benefits of good environmental stewardship, green policies help schools provide healthier surroundings for their students and staff.
Administration and Facility Management
Hazardous Waste Management
This program provides guidance managing proper disposal of fluorescent lamps, mercury-containing equipment and other hazardous waste, such as lab chemicals.
Contact us for more information about hazardous waste management
Outdoor Air Quality
Heavy-duty vehicles, including diesel trucks and school buses, are prohibited from idling for more than five minutes at a time, with few exceptions; learn about the anti-idling law and required vehicle emissions inspections.
You can also visit the EPA's Clean School Bus USA program for more information reducing children's exposure to diesel exhaust and the amount of air pollution created by diesel school buses.
Contact us for more information about outdoor air quality.
Pest Management
Schools that apply pesticides must meet DEC and State Education Department requirements, information about alternative pest management methods are also available.
Contact us for more information on pesticide application in schools.
Solid Waste Reduction, Recycling
Recycling is mandatory in schools in New York State. This site provides assistance in establishing comprehensive waste reduction programs in schools.
Contact us for more information on recycling in schools.
Stormwater Management
Learn how state standards for stormwater management may apply to your school. There is also information and guidance for adopting techniques for green infrastructure, including green roofs and rain gardens.
Contact us for more information on stormwater management.
Toxics Elimination, Reduction
Many schools have mercury and chemicals that need to be removed. This program can provide schools with mercury and chemical waste management practices. There is also an introduction to green chemistry practices to minimize hazardous waste.
Contact us for more information on chemical waste management practices.
Grant Opportunities
Environmental Justice Community Impact Grants
Environmental Justice grants are available for projects such as cleanup of lead or mercury contamination in schools and education projects connecting inner-city students to nature.
Contact us for more information on how schools can apply for the grants.
Recycling Grants
Grants for schools are available through the Municipal Waste Reduction and Recycling State Assistance Program.
Contact us to help get your school involved.
Urban Forestry Grants
Grants are available for eligible urban forestry projects including plantings on school properties.
Contact us for more information on getting your school involved in forestry projects.
Recognition and Award Programs
Green Schools Challenge
The challenge recognizes schools that are developing programs for waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and or purchases of recycled products and packaging.
Contact us for more information or to get your school involved.
NYS Environmental Excellence Awards Program
This program honors schools, organizations, individuals, businesses and others for achieving exceptional environmental benefits and improving and protecting New York State's environment.
Contact us for more information on applying for the awards program.
Curriculum
Conservationist for Kids
DEC's very own nature and outdoors magazine for students. The magazine is sent to all public school 4th graders three times a year. Visit the website for additional activities and resources for educators.
Contact us for more information about the magazine a fun "green" activities for your school.
New York Recycles!
New York Recycles! is part of a national event - America Recycles 2008. The national theme, "It All Comes Back To You!" will also be New York Recycles! theme. Visit the webpage for teacher information and an educational booklet with activity pages and resources for use in the classrooms. There is also a poster contest for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
Contact us for more information on getting your school involved.
