Green Spaces are Important
Green spaces consist of lawns and gardens at our homes, parks and sports fields, golf courses, botanical gardens and can be both managed and unmanaged. There are many advantages to having and creating green spaces.
Environmental Benefits
Green spaces benefit our environment. They filter pollutants and dust from the air, provide shade and lower temperatures in urban areas, and reduce erosion of soils and contamination of our waterways. They increase oxygen, act as carbon sinks, decrease pollution, improve indoor air quality, and attract wildlife and other natural attractions.
Lifestyle Benefits
Imagine your local park completely devoid of green — not a pretty picture! We tend to take for granted the role that green spaces play in our lives. Research has shown that green spaces foster improved mental and physical health and well-being, promote quicker recovery for hospital patients and those in long-term facilities and can promote decreased aggression and violence.
Economic Benefits
Green spaces benefit our economy. They conserve energy by providing shade, windbreaks and cooling effects. Landscaping has been shown to increase property values for homeowners and to be a wise investment for all levels of government. The results are soil stabilization and reduced run-off from open spaces, reduced maintenance for open spaces, increased public safety and greater appeal to tourists.
Environmental studies: the schools being powered by nature
Children learn better when the outdoors comes into the classroom – and the benefits extend beyond academic achievement. Howe Dell Primary in Hatfield could well be the UK’s most eco-friendly school. It has toilets that flush using rainwater, sedum roofs made of plants and vegetation, and classroom sink-tops made from recycled yoghurt pots. But the school’s design doesn’t just help project the environment, it also uses nature to improve children’s academic performance and behaviour.
Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition
Alliance of organizations that share a common vision for a healthy, green Ontario where the economic, social, environmental and health benefits of green infrastructure are fully realized
Planting Science
A learning community where scientists provide online mentorship to student teams as they design and think through their own inquiry projects. Engaging in the science process and becoming familiar with science practices enhances science learning.
