On Earth Day 2015, CHCCS was named a US. Department of Education Green Ribbon District Awardee. In total, across the country, 58 schools and 14 districts were honored for their exemplary efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, promote better health, and ensure effective environmental education, including civics and green career pathways.“These honorees are compelling examples of the ways schools can help children build real-world skillsets, cut school costs, and provide healthy learning environments,” US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools are an inspiration and deserve the spotlight for embodying strong examples of innovative learning and civic engagement. We also are thrilled to add institutions of higher education to the list of honorees this year for the first time in the award’s history.”

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction 2015 Green Ribbon District Application

CHCCS has been recognized locally and nationally for our leadership and innovation in K12 Sustainability

2018 US Green Building Council Green Schools Scholarship
2017 US Green Building Council Best of Green Schools System Award
2016 Carolina Recycling Association Innovative Recycling/Compost Program
2016 US Green Building Council NC Green Apple Sustainable Business Award
2015 National Recycling Coalition Outstanding Community or Government Program
2015 National Recycle Bowl District Winner
2014 US Department of Education Green Ribbon School District

In May 2011, the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education adopted the district's first Sustainability Policy (1810). The policy was drafted by the Sustainability committee's policy sub-committee and was vetted through the approval process by the sub-committee chair.

The Board's adoption of the Sustainability Policy shows the continued commitment and leadership of CHCCS to the principles of sustainability, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship.