Schools Transform Asphalt Yards into Green Oases
Deutsche Umwelthilfe and Stiftung „Lebendige Stadt“ are funding the redesign of three schoolyards with 20,000 euros each. The initiative aims to convert grey asphalt into more functional and appealing learning environments.
Three German schools in Bad Doberan, Berlin, and Wiesbaden have been selected to participate in the "Make Your Schoolyard Fit for the Future" initiative. Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) and Stiftung „Lebendige Stadt“ will each provide 20,000 euros to help these schools redesign their schoolyards, transforming them into greener and more functional spaces.
The project, with a total budget of approximately 250,000 euros and under the patronage of Federal Minister Dr. Barbara Hendricks, seeks to enhance the attractiveness and ecological quality of school outdoor areas. Over 550 schools applied to join the initiative, highlighting a significant demand for schoolyard renovations across Germany.
"Grey concrete still largely dominates German schoolyards," stated Prof. Harald Kächele, Federal Chairman of DUH. "While three schoolyards are just a small start, we are now calling on federal, state, and local authorities, as well as private foundations and businesses, to support the 'deinSchulhof' initiative for the redesign of school grounds."
The renovation projects are set to begin shortly, with completion expected by summer 2017. The goal is to create schoolyards that serve as more appealing social and physical learning and recreational spaces, addressing the needs of increased all-day schooling. The initiative also includes an online portal designed to offer advice and inspiration for future schoolyard redesign efforts.