Ontario is creating and sustaining over 5,500 new jobs in the green economy by improving schools.

More than 1,000 publicly funded schools will be made more energy efficient to give kids better places to learn and help boards save energy and money. Construction will start as soon as this summer.

The $550-million investment over two years will help existing schools:

• Retrofit buildings with new energy efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and boilers.
• Conduct energy audits to help manage and conserve energy.
• Upgrade to improve the learning environment for students currently learning in inefficient rooms.

The investment will save school boards money by reducing energy bills and will create jobs in Ontario’s new green economy.

Ontario schools are also teaching kids how to be more environmentally friendly. Starting in the fall of 2009, environmental education will be added to the curriculum in every subject in every grade. And programs such as EcoSchools are teaching students about conserving energy, minimizing waste and greening school grounds.

See how Ontario is making progress in creating a green economy.

Canada’s most environmentally friendly school is scheduled to open in Windsor next year.

Find out more about the greening of Ontario’s schools.