Green Daily

Metro, Washington D.C.'s pub trans system, is donating four of its dirty emissions-spewing buses to a nonprofit that will turn them into biodiesel-propelled mobile teaching labs.

The nonprofit, Biodiesel University, turns the donated buses into biodiesel-burning powerhouses and drives them to local elementary, middle and high schools to teach students about energy and the environment, as well as encourage them to pursue careers in science. The lessons are hands-on, and include examples of biodiesel use (water cannons and jet engines), and a working oilseed press, which extracts oil from beans and seeds. (A WaPo blogger did an interview with Bio U's founder, Dan Goodman, here).

Perhaps the best part about this idea is that traveling classrooms are a great way to expose kids to environmental topics that they may not be aware of otherwise, especially if they live in an inner city. Even one day's worth of learning can make a huge impression on kids and have an impact on their habits. Plus, similar programs have shown that the best way to get through to parents - about nutrition, health, the environment, or otherwise - is through their kids, at school.