Schoolyards greening for connecting people and nature: an example of nature-based solutions?

Abstract

In response to climate change, cities are increasingly implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) like schoolyard greening. This study investigates the Parisian OASIS program—a large-scale initiative to renature schoolyards—through arthropod biodiversity surveys and interviews with 21 stakeholders. Findings reveal that green schoolyards host diverse arthropod communities, comparable to those in urban green spaces, contributing to ecological connectivity and multispecies justice. However, realizing their full potential requires significant shifts in urban governance, long-term management, and inclusive social appropriation. Justice is key: ensuring all school communities—especially marginalized one—benefit equally from green infrastructure. The success of these NbS depend on biodiversity-informed practices and sustained engagement from educators, students, families, and city officials. By integrating justice into design and implementation, green schoolyards can become transformative spaces for more equitable and inclusive NbS in urban environments.