Data and Statistics
Sustainability at DCSD is not only about environmental stewardship—it is a smart financial strategy. By reducing energy, water, and waste costs, the district avoids future expenses and uses taxpayer funds more efficiently. Investing in conservation and long-term planning helps build resilient, cost-effective schools that support students today and into the future. Avoided costs since 2019: $3,810,554.
Energy Reduction
The Sustainability Department has strengthened energy management through the installation of eGauge monitoring systems, ongoing maintenance of photovoltaic infrastructure, and active participation in Strategic Energy Management partnerships with Xcel, Still Water, and Pivot Energy. DCSD competes annually in the ReNew Our Schools energy challenge. The outcomes shown below demonstrate the collective impact of students and staff who have implemented straightforward behavioral modifications to decrease energy consumption.
Waste Diversion
All DCSD facilities have access to comprehensive recycling services. Through Waste Management's single-stream recycling initiative, DCSD recycles glass, aluminum, paper, cardboard, plastics, and tin. Beyond these core efforts, DCSD pursues innovative strategies to divert difficult-to-recycle materials from landfills. The district's commitment to waste reduction has resulted in a current diversion rate of 25%, reflecting ongoing progress toward sustainability goals.
Composting
Composting enjoys strong support across the district through multiple program models. Several schools maintain on-site "backyard" composting systems, transforming cafeteria scraps into nutrient-rich compost for use in school gardens. Additionally, nine schools participate in a commercial composting program funded through an FRWD grant, tracking their daily composting weights. These initiatives reduce landfill waste while creating educational opportunities for students.
Battery Recycling
The West Support Center Warehouse coordinates battery collection and recycling for all district schools. Batteries are gathered centrally and processed through certified recycling channels several times annually. This systematic approach ensures proper disposal of hazardous materials, prevents environmental contamination, and recovers valuable materials for reuse. The program reflects DCSD's comprehensive commitment to responsible waste management across all material categories.
Electronic Recycling
Electronic recycling represents an ongoing commitment throughout DCSD. All expired, outdated, and obsolete electronics are collected and sent to the DCSD warehouse for processing. From there, these materials are transferred to a reputable, e-certified recycling company that ensures proper handling and disposal. This systematic approach guarantees responsible management of electronic waste while protecting the environment from hazardous materials.
Metal Recycling
Unwanted and unused metal components are systematically recycled through Rocky Mountain Metal Recycling. This partnership ensures that scrap metal from facilities maintenance, equipment upgrades, and infrastructure projects is diverted from landfills and repurposed effectively. The program reflects DCSD's commitment to recovering valuable materials while reducing waste, contributing to both environmental stewardship and resource conservation throughout district operations.
Plastic Film Recycling Initiative
We’ve launched a plastic film recycling program at our WSC Warehouse, Nutrition Services Warehouse, and Legacy Campus. Collected plastic film is delivered to Driven Plastics, where it is repurposed into a binder for asphalt, turning waste into roadways. To date, this effort has diverted 1,300 pounds of plastic film from the landfill.
Textile Recycling
DCSD has established active textile recycling programs at 26 schools throughout the district. These collection sites accept unwanted clothing, shoes, and fabric items, diverting them from landfills and extending their useful life. The program provides convenient opportunities for students, staff, and families to responsibly dispose of textiles while supporting sustainability goals and demonstrating the district's commitment to comprehensive waste reduction.
Solar Power
DCSD operates rooftop solar panel installations at 30 schools across the district. These photovoltaic arrays generate clean, renewable electricity that directly powers school operations, reducing reliance on traditional grid energy. The solar infrastructure helps lower electricity costs while decreasing the district's carbon footprint, demonstrating a significant investment in sustainable energy and serving as a visible educational resource for students.
CNG Buses
The DCSD Transportation Department operates three Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses fueled by Renewable Compressed Natural Gas (R-CNG). These vehicles significantly reduce harmful emissions compared to traditional diesel buses while utilizing fuel produced from organic materials. This dual environmental benefit addresses both air quality concerns and waste management, representing an innovative approach to sustainable student transportation throughout the district.