Design Ideas for Eco Schoolyard Transformation

Asphalt to Ecosystems (only now as an e-book) is a wonderful resource for schools that wish to transform ugly unused spaces into green outdoor spaces for schools, including green parks and playgrounds, to spaces for growing organic food. It includes case studies and 500 photos.

For planting outdoor spaces, read our posts on pet-friendly and wildlife-friendly gardens (also avoid facing indoor plants to outside gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows).

Schools are usually large buildings, so just one inspired headteacher can make a huge difference. For example, most people can’t afford to put a solar panel on their roof (and if they did, it would take years to break even). But a big school can not only get grants, but end up powering their school for nothing, and even funding projects, by selling excess energy back to the grid.

Switching to recycled paper products is good for any of us. But with the amount of notebooks that schools use, this would likely save hundreds of trees each year. Same with using natural house paint on walls and ceilings. And switching to green energy like Ecotricity.

About the Author

Sharon Gamson Danks is on the board of Green Schoolyards America (which she founded), where you can find lots more ideas, case studies and resources. She is an environmental city planner who has helped to shape the green schoolyard field for over 20 years.

She holds master’s degrees in landscape architecture and city planning, and a Professional Certificate in Natural Resource Management. She is the mother of two expert playground testers, who are now off on adventures of their own.