As sustainability becomes a growing priority in education, K–12 school districts across the U.S. are embracing eco-friendly technologies not only to safeguard the environment but also to alleviate budget pressures. From energy-efficient printers to smart building systems, schools are deploying innovative solutions that reduce long-term operational costs while minimizing their carbon footprint.
In Michigan, Saline Area Schools exemplify this shift. Technology Director Jay Grossman has spearheaded a range of initiatives to optimize efficiency and cut expenses. These include solar panel installations at middle and high schools, converting from fluorescent to LED lighting, and transitioning to newer, more sustainable printing technologies.
One standout move was replacing traditional toner-based printers with Epson Workforce inkjet models. These machines are not only faster but consume significantly less power — about 75% less once warmed up — and their refillable cartridges help cut back on landfill-bound waste. The district also avoids frequent part replacements like fusers, further reducing e-waste.
Charging carts, another common tech fixture in classrooms, have also undergone sustainable upgrades. Traditional carts use bulky alternating-current adapters that frequently break and contribute to electronic waste. JAR Systems tackled this problem with its Quick-Sense USB-C Charging Retrofit Kits, which eliminate the need for AC adapters and reduce power consumption. These smart modules deliver only the required amount of energy to charge devices, resulting in better energy management and fewer replacement costs.
School buildings themselves are becoming more intelligent. Schneider Electric is among the companies offering advanced building automation systems to optimize energy usage. Tyler Haak, vice president of services, highlights the importance of digitizing previously analog systems to centralize data and improve energy decisions. HVAC systems, which can represent more than a third of a school’s energy use, benefit from tools like automated diagnostics and predictive maintenance powered by artificial intelligence.
Advanced CO₂ sensors add another layer of efficiency by adjusting airflow based on real-time occupancy data. These sensors help reduce the need to heat or cool unnecessary volumes of air, which translates into significant energy savings.
Districts looking to pursue sustainable technology initiatives should also explore funding options like the federal E-rate program. Grossman emphasizes that sustainability planning should begin at the earliest stages of new construction or renovation. He also encourages collaboration among IT professionals through tech-focused communities to exchange ideas and successful strategies.
For modern school systems, going green is no longer a fringe concept — it’s a practical approach to financial and environmental stewardship. With thoughtful investment and collaboration, sustainable technology can drive lasting change in both educational outcomes and operational efficiency.
