Brussels, (Brussels Morning)- In the buildings of Brussels Environment, nineteen Brussels schools presented the plan for their new and greener playground on Monday. This “Operation Re-creation” fits within the nature and climate policy of Brussels Minister for the Environment and Climate Transition Alain Maron (Ecolo).
The aim of Operation Re-Creation is to make the playgrounds of Brussels schools greener and to redesign them for greater well-being, better stormwater management, more biodiversity, new learning opportunities,…
Schools in densely populated neighbourhoods
“Reconnecting with nature improves students’ general well-being and skills,” Maron said in a press release. “That is why we have pre-selected a pre-selection of mainly school playgrounds that are located in a heat island or in a very densely populated district, with few green spaces in the area.”
The Dutch-speaking schools that will soon have a green playground are the GO! Kunsthumaniora Brussels in Laeken, primary school Sint-Lutgardis in Ganshoren, the Technical Atheneum Zavelenberg in Sint-Agatha-Berchem and De Kleurdoos in Brussels.
5 million euros released
In total, the playgrounds of 19 schools in the Region – or an area of 43,092 m² – will be softened and/or made green.
To this end, the Brussels government approved a budget of more than 5 million euros in 2021. On average, each school receives a subsidy of almost 300,000 euros.
water management
Greening the playgrounds in Brussels is important because it improves the permeability of the soils and water management. In this way, cool islands are created, which the city needs in the fight against climate change. Especially during heat waves, the green playgrounds will ensure that it stays a little cooler.
Work will start in 2023
The new playgrounds are designed in a participative way by the students, teachers and parents, as well as architects and nature experts. The schools are guided through all project phases. Work in the first schools will start in 2023. Once the green playgrounds are finished, they can also be opened up to the neighbourhood in collaboration with associations.
