Why Should Your School Make the Switch?
Our current school transportation system relies heavily on diesel-powered buses, which emit harmful pollutants that can have serious negative impacts on human health, particularly for children and those with asthma. Carcinogens and particulate matter in diesel exhaust can hinder learning abilities and cause premature death and decreased lung function. Studies have shown that air pollution inside the bus cabin can be higher than outside, putting children at risk during their daily commute. It's time for a change. We need to transition to electric school buses to ensure a safer and healthier environment for our children and future generations.
For cleaner air & environment for kids (and everyone)
Each electric school bus prevents 291 metric tons of climate pollution. Switching to electric school buses will not only lead to zero tailpipe emissions but also protect students’ (and drivers’) lungs by keeping diesel exhaust out of the air inside and outside of the buses.
To protect our children’s health & well-being
Children are particularly susceptible to diesel pollutants during their daily commute to school due to their developing respiratory systems and faster breathing rates. Exposure to diesel and gasoline air pollution can also affect a child's ability to learn at school. Electric school buses do not produce these diesel emissions, as they run on electricity.
To promote environmental & health equity
Low-income communities and visible minority communities, such as Black, Indigenous and Latin, among others, often face higher levels of air pollution. By introducing electric school buses in these historically polluted areas, we can reduce the amount of diesel pollution and improve community health. Moreover, electric school buses can have a positive impact on the grid and promote equitable energy distribution.
To promote climate change action
Every school bus that transitions to electric can save around 20 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year, and a complete transition to electric buses across Nova Scotia's school bus fleet could eliminate over 23,000 tonnes of emissions each year. Especially in schools, where we are trying to teach young people about climate change and action, the electrification of school buses is a meaningful action.
Less noise, less maintenance
Electric school buses offer a more comfortable and peaceful ride for students due to their quiet operation, and drivers can better hear everything happening in the bus. With fewer rotating and moving parts, electric buses require less maintenance and have longer lifespans compared to diesel buses. This translates to a competitive cost advantage and improved reliability, making them a smart investment for schools.