Sustainable Landscape
Many schools have untapped assets such as land, natural resources, sunlight and rainfall that are often ignored and under-utilised. Landscape design should not be overlooked, as strategic masterplanning can have considerable cost benefits as well as improving academic performance, comfort conditions, and the health of students and the wider community.
Increase in the quality, quantity and biodiversity of the landscape around buildings is part of an holistic approach to sustainable design.
Offsetting & Regeneration
Offsetting the negative impact of development is essential to maintaining the health of both the local ecosystem and the planet.
Productivity
Cultivation can form a useful part of the school curriculum. Food production should be seen as a basis for healthy eating, education and cost saving.
Active Learning
Outdoor teaching areas encourage both work and play. Informal seating under verandas or trees provides additional active learning space.
Climate Cooling
Trees and plants provide a substantial local cooling effect through shading and transpiration, which reduce radiant heat and increase cool airflow.
Mitigation
Strategic planting can be used to mitigate damage from potential climate disasters, such as storms, earthquakes or flooding.