Step-By-Step Guide To Selecting Sustainable Playground Equipment

Making good decisions about environmentally friendly playground equipment is only possible with an understanding of why sustainability is important. By recognising why you’re doing it, you will have the foundational knowledge necessary for choosing the best options.

• Environmental Benefits: Sustainable materials reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and conserve natural resources. By opting for eco-friendly playground solutions, you support the circular economy and contribute to a healthier planet.
• Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in high-quality sustainable playground equipment can reduce maintenance and expansion costs over time, particularly if they’re modular designs – more on that later.
• Enhanced Health & Safety: Eco-friendly playgrounds use non-toxic materials and finishes, ensuring a safer environment for users. Sustainable surfacing materials like recycled rubber provide superior shock absorption, reducing risks of injury.

Assessing the components used in outdoor play equipment is crucial because it directly impacts both the potential environmental benefits and longevity of the playground. Choosing the right materials ensures the play area is eco-friendly, durable, and safe for long-term use. High-Quality sustainable outdoor play equipment should consist of the following:

Sustainable Wood

• Why It Matters: Timber from certified forests supports sustainable forestry practices and helps preserve ecosystems.
• What to Look For: Verify that the wood is sourced from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified forests and ensure it has been treated for durability and safety.

Recycled Plastics

• Why It Matters: Highly durable and weather-resistant, recycled plastics help divert waste from landfill and reduce the need for new materials.
• What to Look For: Ensure the equipment is made from PCR (post-consumer recycled) plastic.

Well-designed playgrounds help minimise waste and reduce environmental impact. By selecting durable, adaptable structures, you ensure a longer lifespan and a more responsible use of resources.

Adaptable Play Solutions: Flexible Designs For Reducing Waste

• Why It Matters: Adjustable play structures allow for easy updates and expansions, reducing the need for complete replacements, which minimises waste.
• What to Look For: Select playground structures with adaptive components that can be reconfigured or added to as community needs evolve.

By prioritising eco-friendly practices and involving users / stakeholders in the design process, you can create engaging spaces complementary of the environment and reflective of the needs of the community.

Impact on Local Ecosystems: Equipment That Doesn’t Negatively Affect Biodiversity

• Why It Matters: Green spaces are important to local ecosystems and wildlife, so outdoor play equipment needs to adhere to environmentally friendly practices.
• What to Look For: Playground materials should be non-toxic and play spaces ideally include features such as plant and wildlife habitats.