TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – The Tucson Unified School District is planning a climate-friendly future by replacing 10 diesel buses with electric buses next year.

This environmentally friendly decision will reduce diesel emissions, providing long-term health benefits for elementary school students Isaac Cabral and Anaie Perry.

“It’s great to know that we’re going to be healthier,” Cabral said. “And we won’t have as many lung problems as we get older, so that’s really good.”

“I also feel good because I know people care about the environment and health and things like that,” Perry adds.

Even though the school district has about 400 school buses and only 10 will be replaced so far, this is still a big step forward.

The replacement will reduce toxic emissions, including 17,000 tons of carbon dioxide from electric vehicles, according to EPA Director Kevin Gong.

Gong said this would most benefit children who ride the bus.

“This will reduce incidents of asthma and hopefully there will be fewer days where children stay home because they don’t feel well,” Gong said.

Since the district is already investing in needed electric charging ports, the replacement will pave the way for more diesel buses to transition in the future.

Tucson USD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Trujillo said the transition is another “bold step” for the district toward becoming a more carbon neutral and environmentally friendly organization.

“For the Tucson Unified School District, this is consistent with our mission to be responsible stewards of our environment,” he said. “I think it’s one thing to talk about these things, but seeing the buses here, it feels like we’re making incredible progress.”

The new buses are expected to be delivered to the school district in December 2025.

The district received approval to purchase the buses in September.

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