Program on the Environment

An estimated 7.4 million children in the U.S. are affected by wildfire smoke each year, and a large proportion of these children are in California. Wildfire smoke contains fine, inhalable particles, as well as dangerous levels of heavy metals and toxins, which threatens children’s health and education. Installing, improving, and maintaining HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems is critical for mitigating exposure to smoke, as well as other emerging challenges. The state does not keep records of the ventilation systems in California schools or which schools might need additional support in funding their HVAC. My research question answers what is the current status and cost estimate of installing, maintaining, and upgrading HVAC systems to all K-12 public schools in California. I gathered qualitative data from over 700 school districts and consulted with HVAC contractors and other partners. I found that nearly 2 out of 5 public schools in California do not have HVAC systems or do not have systems that are maintained or updated. Also, over 50% of new HVAC systems and 80% of replacement HVAC systems are estimated to be performing incorrectly. As for the cost estimate, installation of HVAC systems schools that need them would cost $1.7 billion, and $3.5 billion annually to maintain and upgrade these systems in all K-12 public schools. The findings will be used to advocate for further funding for wildfire preparedness for schools in the Green New Deal for Public Schools in California policy report.