Originally Published August 26, 2023, NPR
Segment Overview:
California is taking action to cool down hot schoolyards, allocating $150 million to make them greener and safer. Blacktop surfaces in many schools become dangerously hot in the heat, posing risks to students. By planting trees and creating green spaces, these initiatives provide shade, manage stormwater, and absorb carbon. While the upfront costs are significant, studies show that green schoolyards are cost-effective in the long run, offering benefits like increased equity and economic advantages. Los Angeles is investing over $100 million in similar projects, focusing on neighborhoods with health disparities. These efforts aim to protect students from heat-related risks and create sustainable school environments, connecting education with environmental responsibility.
