Members of the London Environmental Network (LEN) and the local public school board have teamed up to help make the Forest City a little greener.
The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) announced it has partnered with the environmental organization to rip up 100 square metres of pavement in an underused outdoor area at Wilton Grove Public School and replace it with plants, trees, and other greenery.
The project, known as a “Depave Paradise” event, will see an area at the school located at 626 Osgoode Drive be redeveloped to serve as an outdoor classroom with natural stone seating and a garden planted full of native plants, the school board said.
Local volunteers including Wilton Grove staff and students, will gather this Thursday to transform the concrete area to a permeable surface, which LEN said will help slow down water and runoff, allowing it to be naturally filtered through the ground before it enters the local groundwater system and surrounding environment.
“Community-led projects like Depave Paradise help to reconnect our neighbours and the next generation. By getting everyone involved directly, you learn the importance of living more sustainably and how our actions impact our future,” said LEN Green Infrastructure Program Lead Cole Taylor. “One project at a time, we are bringing awareness to the underutilized pavement across London while working with local groups who know what matters most in their community to make a tangible difference.”
While London is affectionately called the “Forest City”, there are many parking lots and roadways across the city that collect an excess of debris such as salt and harmful chemicals that end up in local waterways such as the Thames River. LEN said replacing empty paved areas with green spaces helps promote healthy ecosystems and proper design practices for future developments.
“This project will provide a wonderful space for students, educators, and community members to come together for any number of reasons, including learning opportunities, community events and meetings,” said Wilton Grove P.S. Principal Kevin Gordon. “Additionally, the opportunity to naturalize some of our yard space brings the added benefit of supporting student learning in the areas of environmental stewardship and sustainability. We are excited see the final product and bring this new learning environment to our school.”
Last year, LEN and the TVDSB partnered for another Depave Paradise event and Jeanne Sauvé French Immersion Public School which proved successful, according to the board.
Community partners in the project include Green Communities Canada, the City of London, Heeman’s greenhouse, Stone Paradise, Try Recycling, and McCabe Promotional.
