eCO2school (pron. “eco to school”) is an award-winning student commute project that encourages students to walk, bike or carpool to reduce Sonoma County schools’ greenhouse gas emissions.

The program began in 2005 as an initiative with teachers and students at Analy High School in Sebastopol. A class of advanced placement statistics students measured the carbon footprint of all students’ commutes. They publicized the benefits of carpooling, biking and walking, and then offered incentives for cleaner commutes. When they took another inventory three weeks later, they had achieved an astonishing 21 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Montgomery and Analy high schools currently have active eCO2school programs. In the fall, programs will expand throughout Sonoma County. The eCO2school team works with classes, clubs and student leaders at different high schools to develop a comprehensive climate change education program that focuses on student leadership and empowerment.

Download the Cool Schools eCO2mmute Project Manual (PDF 1.42MB) to get started on implementing eCO2school at your high school.