Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD)

Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, health, and environmental literacy through initiatives that promote conservation, wellness, and education. The district aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 by implementing renewable energy projects, waste diversion programs, and water conservation efforts. To support these goals, LBUSD is updating its 10-year Facility Master Plan (FMP) to align with Energy Management Plan (EMP) projects, establishing a structured framework for securing funding and implementing energy improvements. The district fosters health and wellness by maintaining pesticide-free, organic landscaping and enhancing indoor air quality using non-toxic cleaning products, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) purifiers, and UV-filtered Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Students and staff benefit from locally sourced meals, garden literacy programs, and a nature therapy framework that integrates outdoor experiences into social-emotional learning. LBUSD develops high-quality environmental literacy for students through professional development for educators, teacher-designed, environmentally-focused interdisciplinary units, hands-on experiences, and innovative programs like the Fire, Land, Ocean, and Water (FLOW) curricular integration initiative and the Poseidon Stormwater Project. Strategic enhancements, including outdoor science gardens, inspire critical thinking and foster meaningful connections to local ecosystems. Through these integrated efforts, LBUSD creates an educational environment that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to address environmental challenges and lead sustainable lives.