Ten Thuringian Schools Awarded for Greening Schoolyards

In Neustadt an der Orla, Thuringia, ten schools were honored on October 7, 2026, for their involvement in the "Green Schoolyards" project. Since 2018, this initiative has expanded the number of green schoolyards in Thuringia to a total of 33 schools.

The winning schools were selected in a competition held in May 2024, organized by the Thuringian Ministry of Environment and Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH). Over the past two and a half years, these schools have developed and implemented their own ideas for redesigning their schoolyards. The project focused on improving stormwater management, enhancing nature experiences, and fostering social interaction.

The Thuringian Ministry of Environment provided initial funding of 20,000 euros per school. The Thuringian Accident Insurance Fund (UKT) also supported the project with an additional 10,000 euros, which allowed for enhancements such as increased recreational facilities. DUH Federal Managing Director Sascha Müller-Kraenner emphasized that green schoolyards create climate-adapted learning and recreational spaces, demonstrating concretely that climate protection starts in everyday life.

UKT Managing Director Sabine Dexheimer stated that the project creates attractive living and learning environments for children and young people, encouraging movement, play, and shared experiences. She highlighted the collaborative approach, where schools planned their yards with students, considering diverse needs from active play to quiet areas for relaxation.

To date, over 30 schools in Thuringia have transformed their schoolyards into natural and appealing living and learning spaces through this project. The goal is to support the sustainable development of schools and provide children with healthier and more stimulating environments.