Kennebunk high school climate action plan

     This project focused on designing and proposing a comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Kennebunk High School, with the goal of significantly reducing the school’s environmental footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability among students, staff, and administrators. Developed through the Gulf of Maine Field Studies course at the University of New England, the plan addressed critical areas such as building energy usage, waste management, transportation emissions, local food sourcing, and student-led climate education. We began by assessing the school’s current carbon footprint through data collection and on-site observations, identifying the major sources of emissions and opportunities for meaningful intervention. The end result addressed the shortcomings of our school, with the idea being next years class transforms it into actionable results.
     As one of the lead students for this project, I went in-depth into the energy/water usage of KHS, interviewing school stakeholders, and developing proposals tailored to Kennebunk High School’s unique infrastructure and community. I was selected to present our project at the UNE Youth Climate Action Night, where I designed and delivered a detailed research poster outlining the plan’s goals, proposed actions, and anticipated impact. In addition to the poster presentation, I was invited to speak as part of the evening’s student panel, where I discussed both the challenges and opportunities of implementing climate action in schools and shared how this work has shaped my perspective as a young environmental leader.
     This project not only deepened my understanding of climate science and environmental policy but also honed my skills in project management, technical communication, and public speaking. I gained valuable experience navigating institutional systems, balancing the voices of stakeholders, and translating complex data into practical recommendations. Most importantly, this project reinforced my belief in the power of local action and youth leadership to drive meaningful change in the face of global challenges.