The U.S. Department of Education has named Westport’s Greens Farms Academy (GFA) a national Green Ribbon School.
The announcement was made Wednesday, Earth Day by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. The award, given annually by the U.S. Department of Education, acknowledges schools that are leading the way in sustainable practices.
The awarding committee looks for schools that are reducing their environmental impact and costs; improving the school’s health and wellness; and are providing an environmental education.
Among the many sustainable practices in place at GFA are composting in the cafeteria (which students then use in the school’s organic garden); using of solar panels; and hosting a variety of “eco events” both within the school and the community.
According to GFA Head of School Janet Hartwell, “Our mission with respect to sustainability is to investigate and implement solutions that lead to a more efficient and low-impact campus.
“Included in this is our effort to engage the entire community in events and education so that they understand how their decisions and actions can affect the environment.”
