The current play park facility at the University School has been in existence for over two decades and has adequately served many students that have passed through the corridors of the school. As a result of its lengthy existence and high level of usage the wear and tear on the equipment and area has resulted in a general dilapidation of the equipment and though still functional it is in need of upgrade as it is not the safest environment for the children.

In today's society, with the current emphasis and need for the preservation of our environment and the wise use of resources, the school?s administration along with The Parent- Teacher?s Network has considered not only upgrading the play park facility but incorporating environmentally conscious aspects into its upgrade making it an eco friendly playground.

This will include the types of play equipment and supporting infrastructure purchased for the playground with regard to use of recycled materials and equipment geared toward environmental education, the general layout and aesthetics, placement of recycling bins and energy conservation through solar lighting.

The School has currently a recycling initiative where they have started to collect plastic bottles for recycling and have engage the company Recycling in Motion (RIM) to collect the material as required. The material is collected in large crocus bags at the moment and stored until collection. It is intended that this project will expand and modernize the school?s current recycling effort.

In terms of production, it is intended that the materials to be used in the manufacture equipment such as swings, slides, activity would demonstrate a reduction in dependency on non-renewable resources. This can be achieved in a number of ways, one of which is by recycling. Recycled materials will be considered in new apparatus including outdoor benches and picnic tables, surfaces, swings, slides, climbing apparatus and even fencing.

It is intended, that among others:
? Any aluminum used will incorporate recycled aluminum
? Any steel used will incorporate recycled steel
? Recycled rubber will be used for playground flooring
? Benches will incorporate recycled rubber
? Fencing will incorporate recycled materials such as rubber

The overall objective is to use this eco friendly playground as a teaching model for use by the school as well as to serve as a template to be replicated by the nearby community and many teaching institutions.

It is envisioned that information sharing through talks and hands on viewing will be facilitated by the school both for the school community but also for other administrators in the education system , community leaders and any other suitable stakeholders. The education component (school and community) will be guided by the Science Specialist on staff and guided by the Project Team who will also assist in delivery of the material.

It is hoped that this project will demonstrate the commitment of the University School to creating a safer, greener world for the benefit of future generations to come, and by putting in place the tools needed to carry out an eco-friendly approach to operations.