PVUSD Commits To Sustainable, 'Environmentally Sound' Schools

WATSONVILLE, CA — The Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recently passed a resolution promising to practice environmental responsibility campus wide.

The resolution titled "Commitment to Promote Sustainability and Healthy and Environmentally Sound Schools" passed unanimously Aug. 21.

The resolution promises many things, including:

-improve energy efficiency

-increase the district's reliance on clean, renewable energy

-any new construction and retrofits will use environmentally sensitive materials

-continue conversion of PVUSD buses to clean energy

-promote biking and walking to school via "Safe Routes"

-continue waste reduction and recycling programs

-improve school lunch program by adding more locally grown products and reducing the amount of overly processed foods

-use sustainable landscaping practices, including reducing runoff and using more drought-tolerant, native vegetation

-continue development of school gardens

-improve sustainability literacy among students, parents and the community

There is no language in the resolution that addresses how the district will watchdog itself. Community members, students and parents are welcome to attend Board of Trustee meetings to address any concerns.