Schoolyard greening is a broad concept that denotes the outdoor school environment being changed to include a variety of natural elements [ie. Plants including trees, flowers, bushes, or grass (even AstroTurf); landscaping features such as sand, water, or hills, etc.] either through construction or a process whereby students are engaged to plan, plant or otherwise change the landscape themselves. Greening does not have to occur all at once in a large scale, costly landscaping or construction project but can occur over time, sourcing low cost natural resources (ie. cut stumps), and can engage the school community (planting days) to support the greening process. There are often grants associated with greening schoolyards because of the benefits identified. There is also evidence to suggest a decrease in inequities for students in lower socioeconomic regions who are more likely to experience less greening on the schoolyard and in the neighbourhoods.

WHY EDUCATORS LIKE THIS PROGRAM

• This can range depending on the amount of change that is made or planned.
• Grants are available and low cost natural resources and work can be sourced.