The US public schools redesigning buildings with climate in mind

School districts are increasingly transitioning to cheaper and greener options. But old building habits and funding constraints can pose a challenge

American schools are the second-largest public infrastructure investment. But what most people don't know is that they are also among the biggest energy consumers in the public sector. K-12 schools consume about 8% of all the energy used in commercial buildings. In turn, they emit as much carbon dioxide as 18 coal-powered power plants. This not only burdens the environment, but children themselves - students suffer from heatstroke, affected hormone and sleep cycles, as well as respiratory issues.