Orange County Public Schools Named Winner of 2014 Clean Air Award

Posted on: May 15, 2014 in Air Quality & Environment

A combination of technology, policy, outreach and operating efficiency has made Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) the winner of the 2014 Clean Air Award from the Central Florida Clean Air Team. OCPS has had a major positive impact on our region’s air quality during the current fiscal year. All told, since July 2013, the district has avoided more than 16 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, while also saving more than $2 million.

A formal presentation will be made to OCPS at the June 24 Orange County School Board meeting, 5:30 p.m. at the Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership Center, 445 W. Amelia St., Orlando.

Receiving Clean Air Honorable Mentions for this year are Orange County Government’s Get Ready Central Florida – Electric Transportation Initiative and the Valencia College Climate Action Commitment. These organizations also demonstrated a significant impact on regional air quality by cutting automobile emissions and providing multi-pronged approaches to contribute to cleaner air.

The Clean Air Team, a volunteer coalition of government, businesses, and citizens, works to improve air quality in Central Florida through outreach and education.  Each year, in May, the team presents a deserving business or organization with the Clean Air Award to coincide with Clean Air Month. Judging is based on innovation and uniqueness, direct or indirect efforts to reduce emissions, providing a model for others to follow, and sustainability.  Previous winners include The City of Casselberry, reThink Your Commute, LYNX’s Biodiesel Blending Facility and the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens.