Alicante to Transform School Yards into 'Bioclimatic Islands'

Alicante is promoting the renaturalisation of school yards to transform them into 'bioclimatic islands', aiming to make them more sustainable and healthier, according to the City Council. The municipal goal is to expand this programme to all public schools of Infant and Primary in future editions as part of its commitment to the environment and children.

Thus, the Alicante City Council, through the department of Green Areas of the Department of Environment, is carrying out an ambitious programme of renaturalisation of school yards in which 14 educational centres have already participated with the planting of 135 trees.

According to the City Council, this initiative aims to turn these spaces into greener, more sustainable, and healthier environments for students. The project not only improves air quality and urban biodiversity but also offers new pedagogical and play opportunities in contact with nature.

The Deputy Mayor and Councillor for the Environment, Manuel Villar, explained that "the initiative responds to the growing need to adapt educational spaces to climate challenges and to promote environmental awareness from an early age." "School yards, traditionally dominated by concrete and asphalt, are being transformed into spaces where children can learn about local flora, enjoy natural shade, and develop their creativity in a more welcoming environment," added the councillor.

This programme includes the introduction of various plant species, the creation of shaded areas, and the installation of natural play elements. The participation of the educational community, including students, teachers, and parents, is crucial for the success and sustainability of these transformations.

One of the most notable milestones of this programme is the significant tree planting. In the last four years, the Department of Green Areas, together with the maintenance contractor STV Gestión, has managed to plant a total of 135 trees in the yards of various schools in the city.

The species selected for this renaturalisation programme are chosen to adapt to the Mediterranean climate and provide the greatest environmental and educational benefits. Among the planted species are Mulberries (Morus alba), Ficus australis, Tipuanas (Tipuana tipu), Olive trees (Olea europaea), Melias (Melia umbraculífera), etc.

The choice of species is made considering the specific location of each yard, soil conditions, and the pursuit of maximum adaptation and sustainability.

The schools that have benefited from this renaturalisation programme so far are: CEIP La Condomina, CEIP La Paz, CEIP Azorín, CEIP Gloria Fuertes, CEIP Los Almendros, CEIP Monte Benacantil, Escuela Infantil El Tossalet, CEIP Juan Bautista Llorca, CEIP Tossal, CEIP Carlos Arniches, CEIP Lucentum, CEIP San Fernando, CEIP Enric Valor, and CEIP Rafael Altamira. The programme will be extended to all primary schools in future editions.

The renaturalisation of Alicante's school yards is a clear example of how urban planning can integrate with environmental and educational objectives. With each tree planted and each green area created, a healthier and more sustainable future is being built for the new generations of Alicante residents, providing them with educational environments that inspire and connect with nature.

According to the Councillor for the Environment, "this programme demonstrates the commitment of the Alicante City Council to a greener city, where public spaces, including schools, are urban lungs that benefit the entire community."

Each new tree planted helps reduce the "heat island" effect as the shade from the trees significantly lowers the temperature in the yards during the hottest months. They also improve air quality, as each tree absorbs CO2 and releases oxygen, contributing to a cleaner environment. The presence of trees in educational centres also promotes biodiversity, attracting insects and birds, enriching the local ecosystem.

In addition to planting trees, shrubs, and other plants, the school yard renaturalisation programme allows for the creation of more stimulating play spaces, as natural environments promote more imaginative and active play. They also contribute to educating in environmental values as students can observe the growth of trees and understand the importance of caring for nature.