PHILADELPHIA — In an effort to advance recycling and environmental sustainability, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker joined city leaders to celebrate 32 Philadelphia schools f leading hands-on efforts to reduce waste, improve neighborhood environments, and build a more sustainable future through the Green Schools Program.
The celebration took place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, where student ambassadors showcased their projects and participated in a panel discussion between with City leaders about building a cleaner, greener Philadelphia.
Through the Green Schools Program, public, charter, independent, and parochial schools receive grants of up to $2,500 to launch projects such as school gardens, composting systems,and recycling initiatives. This year, more than $75,000 supported student-led efforts that are reducing waste and bringing sustainability practices into classrooms, homes, and neighborhoods across the city.
“Since Day One, my Administration has been focused on building a cleaner, greener Philadelphia that residents can see, touch, and feel,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Programs like the Green School put that vision into action. Here, our young people are given the tools to lead, to innovate, and to make a real difference in their schools and neighborhoods. When we invest in our students, we’re investing in the future of our city.”
“Programs like Green Schools demonstrate that sustainability isn’t a future goal, it is happening right now in our classrooms. These students are turning ideas into action and helping lead the way toward a cleaner and greener Philadelphia,” said Carlton Williams, Director, Office of Clean and Green. “Our students aren’t just learning about sustainability, they are shaping it. The creativity and leadership we’re seeing through these projects is exactly what our city needs.”
Projects funded through the Green Schools Program included school gardens, composting systems, recycling campaigns, and other innovative green initiatives designed to instill lifelong habits of environmental stewardship. Students are encouraged not only to lead eco-friendly efforts within their schools but also to bring these practices into their homes and neighborhoods.
“When we invest in students, we invest in the future of our city. These projects show how young people can take the lead in building cleaner, more sustainable communities,” said Crystal Jacobs Shipman, Commissioner, Department of Sanitation. “These students are setting a new standard. They’re showing us what it looks like to take ownership of our environment and build a better future together.”
The Green Schools Program showcases how education and environmental awareness can work hand in hand. By fostering a generation of environmentally conscious leaders, the program underscores the importance of sustainable thinking as a part of everyday life and learning.