Most school buses run on diesel fuel. Diesel emissions have been linked to asthma and other health problems and have been targeted for reduction to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These issues are frequently worse in communities of color and tribal communities, according to the EPA. Of the 47 California school districts selected, four were in the Bay Area and Central Coast region.
'Setting California's schoolchildren up for a successful day of learning starts with a cleaner commute,' said Padilla. 'The Clean School Bus Program is a crucial down payment on the transition to zero-emission buses, which is especially important to lower income communities who face some of our nation's worst air quality,' Padilla said. Butler said she applauded the awards.