There’s a clear climate case for switching from diesel school buses to electric ones. But that’s not the only reason to do it. New WRI research shows that adopting electric school buses across the U.S. could yield $1.6 billion in benefits each year, with almost every county poised to gain.

These returns would come from eliminating the economic toll of diesel-burning buses. Cleaner air would mean fewer health impacts, while reduced climate pollution lowers the risk of costly natural disasters. 

We unpack which states and counties would reap the biggest economic benefits, and what it will take to achieve them.

Most countries are expected to put forth new national climate plans before the end of September. These will reveal the world’s collective climate trajectory over the next decade. But what exactly are the “NDCs,” as they’re known, and why are they so critical? 

Africa’s booming population, growing economies and high vulnerability to natural disasters make it a central focus in the fight against climate change. As leaders gather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from Sept. 8-10 for the second Africa Climate Summit, four key themes will help shape the continent’s — and the world’s — future.

The past few years have seen major interest and investment in direct air capture, a suite of technologies that scrub carbon dioxide directly from the air. But while the industry shows promise, there’s still uncertainty about how much it can really contribute to the fight against climate change.

All states would see economic gains by switching from diesel school buses to electric ones. But the biggest benefits would be in areas with the oldest fleets — often in communities with higher proportions of people of color. 

The New Global Possible highlights real climate solutions that are already transforming lives around the world — and explores how we can scale them to meet the urgency of today’s challenges. The book is out on September 9th. Proceeds from book sales will directly support WRI’s mission.