…Cleaner Rides, Healthier Kids, Greener Future
Electric school buses are more than just a new way to get to class—they’re a powerful step toward protecting student health, fighting climate change, and saving school districts money. As communities across Canada and beyond face growing concerns about air pollution and global warming, the switch from diesel to electric school buses offers real, practical solutions.
Health Comes First: Protecting Kids from Harmful Emissions
Every day, approximately 225,000 children ride school buses in Atlantic Canada alone. Most of these buses are still powered by diesel engines—which means students and drivers are exposed to harmful exhaust fumes during their commutes. Diesel exhaust contains pollutants like PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene—a known human carcinogen.
Long-Term Savings for School Districts
While electric buses may have a higher upfront cost, they save school districts money over time. With lower fuel costs and fewer moving parts to maintain, electric buses can reduce operating expenses by up to $6,000 annually per bus.
The Road Ahead
More and more families, educators, and decision-makers are connecting the dots between transportation, health, and climate. In that same 2023 poll, 80% of Atlantic Canadians recognized the link between air pollution and their health—and they want action.
How You Can Make A Difference
83% of Atlantic Canadians support accelerating the transition to a fully electric school bus fleet by 2040*, recognizing the urgent need for climate action. With transportation being one of the largest sources of emissions in Canada, the electrification of school buses represents a tangible way to make progress.
*2023 poll from Abacus Data
Using Your Voice to Create Change
You can help send a message to the government of New Brunswick as we all ride the electric bus – cleaner air, healthier children and saving money!
NB Lung | Poumon NB is your Provincial Lung Health Charity focused on providing essential patient supports, advocacy, and public education to protect our lungs and the air we breathe since 1933.
Our Work is possible from ongoing support from donors like you – Thank You.