Brussels School Replaces Concrete With Green Space

Why this is here: The Ré-création initiative specifically targeted schools “who had the most need,” indicating a focus on equitable access to green spaces for all students.

Julie Loriaux and her team redesigned the schoolyard at the Clarté communal school in Jette, Belgium. The project replaced concrete surfaces with wood chips, small stones, and plants. This transformation is part of the Ré-création initiative, led by Bruxelles Environnement and perspective.brussels.

The program addresses environmental and educational concerns, focusing on student wellbeing through sustainable schoolyard design. Loriaux notes the new space reintroduces plant life that will thrive and improve quality of life. Teachers at the school already observe children enjoying the new materials and a calmer atmosphere.

The project also prioritizes social equity by focusing on schools with the greatest need. While the redesigned yard offers benefits for students’ connection to nature, long-term effects on biodiversity and student health require further observation. Work continues to expand this approach to other schools.