High school students lead push for fossil-free investments
A California private school has joined a growing student-driven movement to divest endowment funds from fossil fuels and reinvest in clean energy, a campaign spreading across high schools in the U.S. and abroad.
Aliya Uteuova and Dharna Noor report for The Guardian.
In short:
- The Nueva School in California pledged to invest its endowment in renewable energy after six years of student advocacy, with students collaborating closely with the board.
- This commitment is part of the International High School Clean Energy Investment Coalition, a student-led effort spanning 11 countries and aiming to clean up school endowments.
- Similar initiatives are gaining traction at other schools, including Seattle Academy and St. Marks in Massachusetts, both of which have moved to reduce fossil fuel investments.
Key quote:
“They understand the deep contradiction between educating people for the future and investing in ways that make sure that future won’t exist.”
— Bill McKibben, environmental activist and author
Why this matters:
By pushing for fossil-free investments, these students highlight the tension between education and climate responsibility. Schools’ divestment choices reflect growing urgency around climate action and may inspire similar efforts across educational and financial institutions.
Related EHN coverage: Should hospitals be next to divest from fossil fuels?
