A groundbreaking project at Sandfield Primary School in Guildford has shown how green infrastructure can improve health and well-being of children. By installing a “living school gate” made of 140 plants and an ivy-covered screen, the school reduced harmful air pollution by almost a third and lowered traffic noise by 5 decibels.
The CoGreen project, led by the University of Surrey’s Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE), brought together researchers, parents, and local groups like Guildford Living Lab and Zero Carbon Guildford. Their goal was to shield children from the dangers of air pollution, a growing concern for schools near busy roads.
“Air pollution is a major risk to children’s health,” the researchers explained. “This project shows how green infrastructure can help protect pupils, staff, and even local wildlife.”
The project highlights the power of collaboration. Parents, teachers, and researchers worked closely to design and deliver this first-of-its-kind solution, creating a model that could be used in schools across the UK and beyond.
More Than Cleaner Air
The benefits went beyond cutting pollution. The green screens also reduced traffic noise, which can distract students in class. Wind direction played a key role in how well the screens worked, with pollution dropping by up to 44% depending on the breeze.
Kate Collins, Sandfield’s headteacher and a co-author of the study, called the project a major achievement. “This has been a long-time dream for our school,” she said. “Thanks to the partnership with the University of Surrey and support from parents and local groups, we’ve created a greener, healthier environment for everyone here.”
A Blueprint for Other Schools
Parents have welcomed the changes. A survey after the installation found that over 75% of them were positive about the reduction in air and noise pollution.
“For years, I’ve worried about air pollution in our area,” said Kate Alger, a local artist and former Sandfield parent. “Being part of this project and seeing it succeed has been amazing. I hope it inspires other schools and communities to follow our example.”
The project’s success offers hope for tackling pollution at schools nationwide. As more people recognize the health risks of urban air pollution, Sandfield’s green gate shows how practical solutions can make a big difference when schools and communities work together.
