First Student's Electric Buses: A Scope 3 Revolution

First Student's electric bus fleet has surpassed an impressive three million miles driven milestone, equivalent to 120 global circumnavigations.

"Three million electric miles driven is an astounding achievement and it is also just the beginning of a brighter, cleaner, safer future for the students we serve," remarks John Kenning, CEO of First Student.

Through this initiative, the company projects a reduction of 75.6 million tons of carbon emissions. Each electric bus replacing a diesel model can cut greenhouse gases by 54,000 pounds annually, significantly impacting the company's Scope 3 emissions profile.

Accelerating the transition

First Student is rapidly expanding its electric fleet, with plans to convert 30,000 diesel buses to electric by 2035. This aggressive timeline demonstrates its commitment to addressing Scope 3 emissions:

"To help students reach their full potential, we need to help districts deploy quieter buses, create safer rides and deliver cleaner air, not tomorrow but today and that's just what today's announcement represents," John adds.

With 317 EVs on order, it anticipates reducing carbon emissions by 30,618,000 tons in the 2023/2024 school year alone.

Leveraging government support

First Student's efforts to reduce Scope 3 emissions are bolstered by significant government support. As of January 2024, the EPA's Clean School Bus Program has provided the company with US$140m, facilitating the addition of more than 370 new electric buses.

The funding forms part of a US$5bn initiative for school bus electrification over five years.

The electric bus programme extends beyond its immediate operations, influencing Scope 3 emissions across communities and partner organisations.

"The benefits of electrifying school buses are tremendous, creating cleaner air, quieter streets and better health outcomes for children and communities," says Kevin Matthews, Head of Electrification at First Student.

In Montana, for example, First Student is deploying eight electric, zero-emission school buses in partnership with Billings Public Schools. The initiative is supported by a US$3m grant from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and assistance from Northwestern Energy.

Challenges and future outlook

While First Student's electric bus programme is making significant strides in reducing Scope 3 emissions, challenges remain. Transitioning to a fully-electric fleet requires substantial infrastructure development and coordination with various stakeholders.

However, the company's progress and commitment to sustainability are clear. By the end of 2024, First Student expects its electric bus fleet to grow to more than 1,400 vehicles, reducing its Scope 3 emissions footprint.

First Student's initiative is a model for other companies looking to address their Scope 3 emissions in the transportation sector. The programme's success demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of large-scale electrification efforts in reducing indirect emissions.

As more organisations follow suit, the cumulative impact on Scope 3 emissions across supply chains and communities could be substantial. First Student's leadership in this area paves the way for a more sustainable future in student transportation and beyond.

First Student's electric bus programme represents a significant step forward in addressing Scope 3 emissions in the transportation sector. By leveraging government support, embracing innovative technologies and collaborating with communities, the company is reducing its carbon footprint and inspiring broader change in the industry.

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