School districts throughout B.C. are receiving their share of $5 million as part of ongoing funding to support their energy efficiency upgrades, Environment Minister Terry Lake and Education Minister George Abbott announced today as they released the first of government's carbon neutral capital program (CNCP) cheques.

"Last year we celebrated becoming the first carbon neutral government in North America," said Lake. "This year, guided by extensive consultation, we're ensuring schools get new money tied to their emission and energy reduction efforts and in doing so solidifying our leadership while inspiring the climate action leaders of tomorrow."

Of the $5 million, $4.7 million will be distributed to identified school districts that have not received funding from previous provincial government energy efficiency capital programs. A further $300,000 will be allocated to 41 school districts for technical expertise that can assist in identifying potential upgrade projects for future years of the CNCP (see link in 'Learn More' for full details). All school districts will be able to apply for funding in future years for projects that will help them reduce emissions and save energy costs.

"These investments in energy efficiency will help schools save money and energy, and help improve the learning environment for K-12 students throughout British Columbia," said Abbott.

Today's announcement coincides with the release of the report, Carbon Neutral BC - Leading Change and Inspiring Action in BC's Public Sector, which highlights the many success stories that exist throughout the province in schools, health-care facilities and public service organizations.

The report provides stories on the leadership that is being taken across the public sector and highlights key accomplishments, such as:

• 70 per cent of all public sector organizations have replaced fleet vehicles with more fuel-efficient models since 2009.

• 60 per cent reduction in emissions for core government travel in 2011 since 2008.

• 69 per cent of all public sector organizations support Green Teams in their workplace to champion environmental awareness.

Learn More:

The full Carbon Neutral Report can be found at: http://www.livesmartbc.ca/government/carbon_neutral

The CNCP funding allocation table can be found at: http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/capitalplanning/resources/2012-13/energy_efficiency_capital_2012-13.xlsx

More information about Ministry of Education Capital Planning can be found at: http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/capitalplanning/resources/welcome.htm

BC Newsroom - Ministry of Environment: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/environment-1

Media Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745