Green Columbus Helps Beautify CCS School Grounds with New Trees
Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
Columbus City Schools will be planting new trees across its campuses to address the urban heat island effect and improve comfort. Trees provide shade, which helps lower surface temperatures and combats the warming effects of urban infrastructure. As Columbus’ population grows and urban areas expand, this initiative aims to mitigate the heat generated by buildings and roads, enhancing both the environment and the well-being of the community.
To combat the urban heat island effect, Green Columbus is focusing on increasing tree cover at local schools. Trees help lower temperatures and make outdoor spaces more comfortable. Shelly Douglas, Executive Director of Green Columbus, highlighted that the city faces rapid heat island growth, with some neighborhoods having as little as 10% tree canopy. The organization aims to improve school grounds so students and teachers can better enjoy outdoor activities.
Shelly Douglas and Green Columbus aim to increase tree cover in neighborhoods with low canopy levels, particularly in south and west side schools. They secured funding to plant nearly 250 trees, which will improve shade and reduce heat-related health issues like asthma and heat stroke. Douglas is especially excited about adding shade to playgrounds, making outdoor areas more comfortable for students and staff during hot summer days.
Green Columbus plans to strategically plant large, mature trees around bus stops, sidewalks, playgrounds, and parking lots at local schools to maximize their impact. These trees, which are already sizable (about 10 feet tall and 2 inches in diameter), will provide immediate benefits and noticeably improve the school environment. The organization has already started planting at Columbus Africentric Early College and other south side schools, with plans to continue on the west side in the fall.
Image Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
