A Vision for Environmental Sustainability in Wauwatosa Schools
Sustainability in Schools: More Than Just an Idea
As a leader in sustainable finance and environmental initiatives, I understand that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a responsibility. Through my work at Marquette University’s S-Lab, my partnership with The Water Council, and my leadership of Water + Energy Forward Inc. Wisconsin’s Green Bank, I’ve developed strategies that balance environmental impact with practical implementation. Our school district has an opportunity to expand on existing efforts and take real, meaningful steps toward environmental sustainability, ensuring that our students learn in healthy, efficient, and future-ready schools.
From my work in carbon markets, green finance, and sustainable investing, I know how to turn environmental goals into practical, cost-effective solutions. Beyond policy, I also believe in direct engagement with students – I have enjoyed spending time with students through the Green Team program and have given numerous talks on environmental sustainability over the years. I’ve seen firsthand how excited young people are about making a difference, and we need to support and expand their enthusiasm with real action in our schools.
A Plan for Sustainable Schools
In today’s world, environmental sustainability is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. Schools play a critical role in reducing carbon footprints, improving energy efficiency, and educating the next generation on environmental responsibility. Our district has already taken some steps, but we must push further to ensure that Wauwatosa is a leader, not a follower, in sustainable education.
Here’s how my experience in green finance and sustainability can help bring real environmental solutions to our schools:
Green Building & Energy Efficiency – Schools should be safe, healthy, and energy-efficient. By implementing better insulation, LED lighting, solar panels, and smart HVAC systems, we can lower operational costs while reducing our environmental impact. These solutions often pay for themselves over time through energy savings.
Sustainable Transportation – Transitioning to electric or hybrid school buses and promoting safe biking and walking routes for students can lower emissions and improve air quality. Schools across the country are already making this shift, and Wauwatosa should consider low emitting bus options for student transportation needs (field trips, sporting events, etc.)
Waste Reduction & Recycling – Expanding recycling and composting programs can reduce landfill waste while teaching students the importance of responsible consumption. Schools can also partner with local organizations to reduce food waste and repurpose materials. Additionally, schools can consider more compost-friendly dinnerware and utensils or even recyclable options.
Environmental Education & Hands-On Learning – Sustainability isn’t just about policy - it’s about education. We should expand environmental science programs, create school gardens, and integrate sustainability themes into STEM curricula. Hands-on learning fosters lifelong awareness and engagement.
Clean Water & Green Infrastructure – Upgrading water fountains to include bottle refill stations, using permeable pavement to reduce runoff, and planting rain gardens can improve stormwater management and water conservation efforts across the district.
Interested in these topics or have other ideas on how we can improve sustainability in our schools? We’d love to hear from you - email friendsofchrismerker@gmail.com.
Christopher K. Merker, Ph.D., CFA
Candidate for Wauwatosa School District Board, Seat 7
