Safe routes 4 schools

About the program

Clean Air and Safe Routes 4 Schools is a program developed to help improve air quality at schools by reducing motorized vehicle emissions near school buildings.

Essentially, the program helps encourage students to use active transportation if they live 2.5 km or less from their school.

Several elementary schools within the RDCO have opted to implement Clean Air and Safe Routes 4 Schools.

How it works

A number of community partners are required to form a committee at each participating school. Partners include numerous stakeholders that will assist in the planning process, including several municipal departments, Interior Health, RCMP and School District 23.

Each participating school has developed an action plan, which involved collaborative work with multiple stakeholders to produce a plan that addressed safety concerns and necessary infrastructure improvements. The school travel plan's objectives were expanded to include tools to identify areas of poor air quality around the school, promote students understanding of the causes and impacts of air pollution, and provide ideas for engaging staff, students and parents in improving air quality.

The RDCO's regional air quality coordinator helps facilitate the development and implementation of the program and assists with coordinating the various school committees through the region.

Benefits

The proven benefits after the implementation of similar programs include improved play, increased physical activity, improved academic performance, reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality.

Further information

SmartTrips – school programs and resources