This project will examine various components of a new Low Carbon Schools Pilot Program being trialled in Perth, to determine their effectiveness in helping to reduce schools' operating carbon emissions, primarily from energy use. Considering the pivotal role schools play within our communities, it will also examine whether the participating schools (through their low carbon initiatives) can influence community awareness, knowledge and action on climate change and decarbonisation.
Using social network analysis, the project will analyse the amount and types of partnerships formed as well as the reach of knowledge around climate change and low carbon living with a variety of community stakeholders including local businesses, community groups, councils, parents and others connected to the school. Through interactive workshops, information sessions and regular meet-ups, the 15 participating schools will be assisted to develop and implement their own individual Low Carbon Action Plans.
This project builds on successful completion of the ‘Carbon Tools and Frameworks for Institutional Precincts’ scoping study which ran from June to October 2014. The scoping study reviewed existing carbon-related programs, initiatives and tools to determine how they differ, their benefits and limitations and their uptake. Importantly, this study provided a coordinated, strategic framework and map to understand how the programs related to each other and how/if they could be integrated to a broader framework.
For further information about how the pilot is helping schools in Perth lower their carbon emissions, visit the ClimateClever website.
