Increase tree canopy for a 'Cool School'!
Extreme heat and the "urban heat island" effect are significant challenges, but with the right approach, schools can become cooler and more resilient spaces.
Creating a 'Cool Schools' Strategy
Improving a school's grounds to better cope with a changing climate is crucial for creating a safer and more comfortable environment for students.
A key strategy is focusing on increasing the school's tree canopy. Trees with large, healthy canopies not only provide shade but also lower air temperatures through evaporative cooling.
To effectively increase a school's tree canopy, a multi-faceted approach is needed. It's not just about planting new trees, but also about creating an environment where they can thrive!
One of the most impactful interventions is to improve soil moisture levels. This can be achieved through a Stormwater Management Plan that diverts and harvests stormwater, using it for passive and active irrigation systems. Improving soil quality is also essential to better sustain plants. Additionally, transforming hard surfaces can make a big difference. Converting paved areas to permeable materials like reinforced grass or hardwearing lawn and mulch can reduce heat absorption and improve water infiltration.
To identify the most critical areas for intervention, schools can undertake vulnerability mapping using thermal imaging to pinpoint "hot spots" that need cooling as a priority.
These efforts align with broader sustainability goals and can also improve building efficiency and student wellbeing. By focusing on vegetation, water, and hard surface materials, schools can take proactive steps to mitigate heat and create a more sustainable and healthy learning environment for everyone.
PM&A are currently working a Landscape Master Plan for Matthew Flinders Girls High School, a highly urbanised campus in Geelong.
By locating microclimate 'hotspots' using thermal imaging, and carefully identifying the range of issues and opportunities around the existing campuses, we are building a tabular Implementation Plan that will allow the school to implement many solutions within the existing maintenance budget, over time.
Our approach centres on climate change adaptation, which not only aligns with the Department of Education's Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan, but also opens up potential capital works funding opportunities from various government and community partners.
If you would like us to help your school (or other community facility) adapt to climate change, contact us to arrange a site visit at admin@perrymills.com.au