The idea
The aim of the project is to protect children from breathing in dangerously high levels of air pollution by installing ivy screens around the perimeter of the playground. By dong this we aim to improve the overall air quality in the school playground. In addition to this, we plan to include fruit, vegetables and herbs in planters to incorporate edible playgrounds into our school. We were audited as one of London’s top 50 most polluted schools. Cars use the road as a turning circle and idle their engines whilst dropping off and collecting their children. Many cars idle their engines throughout the day too, whilst waiting for family and friends or picking up a coffee at the nearby café.
This project will have a dramatic impact on children, and indeed the whole school community’s overall health. The dangerous levels of NO2 are particularly damaging to young children’s lungs. We have many asthmatic children and staff and the levels of pollution only exacerbate this further
What we'll deliver
- Erect Green Screens around the perimeter of the playground
- Plant herbs, fruit and vegetables in planters which the children will use in their daily school life
- Plant trees around the edges of the playground to further reduce air pollution
Why it's a great idea
We took part in an experiment with King’s College and Channel 4 Dispatches. As part of this experiment we were able to demonstrate the difference in air quality by having temporary Green Screens around the school. The experiment measured the amount of NO2 before and after the Green Screens were put in place. The amount of NO2 in the playground before the temporary Green Screens were in place was 31.5/ (m2). Whereas the difference after the temporary screens had been put in place was 22.6/ (m2). This difference could be life changing. Over the last 6 months the levels of NO2 in our playground have breached the legal limit.This project is incredibly important as we have proven that the screens make a difference to children’s health. With children spending a huge amount of time at school, it is important that we safeguard them in every aspect of their lives. It is important that children are free to breathe clean air whilst they exercise outside and take part in PE lessons and play
Steps to get it done
- Detailed Site Survey
- Delivery of goods
- Installation
- On-going maintenance
After taking part in Channel 4 Dispatches, Britain’s Toxic Air Scandal, we are now aware how much pollution is in the air surrounding the school and the playgrounds.
http://hieh.hpru.nihr.ac.uk/news/britains-toxic-air-scandal
Sadiq Khan stated ‘It is unacceptable that our filthy air is affecting the lung and respiratory health of young children, especially those who go to schools near polluted roads.
Evidence from The Air Quality Group suggests a ‘green barrier’ between pedestrians and cars can halve the pollution levels within the barriers. This will make a difference to children's lives for years to come.
