What does it take to make New York’s schoolyards and playgrounds cooler and greener?
As cities face the increasing challenges of managing extreme temperatures fueled by climate change, nature-based solutions can mitigate these impacts while benefiting our young children's physical, mental, and developmental health. Equipping parks, playgrounds, and schoolyards with more green and natural surfaces instead of asphalt and rubber can be an important part of these solutions.
Studies in New York City have revealed unequal access to green spaces and play amenities, especially in lower-income communities of color. Schools and child care centers are not just educational institutions but also valuable community resources that can play a pivotal role in implementing place-based approaches for climate adaptation. By integrating nature into indoor and outdoor play and learning spaces, cities can provide children with essential elements for their growth and well-being.
In this session, we'll delve deep into the power of nature-based approaches in building resilient communities and nurturing the holistic development of our young children. We'll explore the real challenges that hinder the creation of more green schoolyards and playgrounds, ranging from policy barriers to funding and maintenance issues in New York City. We'll uncover innovative ways to overcome challenges by drawing inspiration from successful examples of nature-based solutions, which transcend traditional sector boundaries and encourage cross-sectoral integration within city departments.
How can we adopt a nature-based design approach for schoolyards and playgrounds to make cities greener, safer, and more nurturing for our children's future?
Speakers and Respondents:
Dana Bourland, JPB Foundation
MaryAlice Lee, Trust for Public Land
Alice Goodman, NYC Department of Education
Meredith McDermott, NYC Public Schools | Division of School Facilities
Maeghann Coleman, Urban Conga
Program Schedule
9:00 Breakfast Reception
9:30 Welcome — Ankita Chachra, Capita
9:40 Framing and Insights
10:00 Invited Respondents
10:10 Small Group Discussion
10:25 Open Discussion
10:45 Program Closes
About Capita
Capita is an independent, nonpartisan think tank with a global focus. Our purpose is to build a future in which all children and families flourish. Capita explores how the great cultural, planetary, and social transformations of our day affect our youngest children (0-8 years old) and our communities. We focus on the interrelated problems and injustices that prevent society from meeting the needs of children and families, particularly those furthest from opportunity. From the impacts of climate change to parental loneliness and social disconnection, our work catalyzes creative new ideas and solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges.
About Urban Design Forum
Urban Design Forum convenes civic leaders to confront the defining issues in New York City’s built environment. We are an independent membership organization that empowers professionals of diverse backgrounds, industries, and perspectives to shape a better future for all New Yorkers. We investigate complex challenges in the built environment, study alternative approaches from cities around the world, and advance progressive strategies to build a more dynamic and democratic city. We shape our research and recommendations through partnerships with leaders in the private sector, government and community development.