Shaded schools program
About this good practice
The Shadow in my school project ("Sombra en mi cole") tackles a serious problem in Murcia: the public schoolyards just don't have enough shade. With temperatures climbing and heatwaves becoming more common because of climate change, this is a really pressing issue and a concern for parents. Too much heat in these outdoor spaces means kids can't use them as much, and it can even be dangerous for their health, especially during the warmer months.
The goal is to make schoolyards safer and more comfortable for students by adding shade, something that we have addressed by adding sail/fabric shades and light structures in specific spots of the schoolyards. The project kicked off in 2023 and is rolling out in two stages to over 100 public schools. Each school gets a solution that fits its needs, from canopies that stay put to ones you can pull back, fabric coverings, pergolas, and, of course, natural shade from trees. We started with the quick and easy solutions first, then tackling the bigger, more involved structures during school breaks so things aren't disrupted. The city’s Education and Urban Development Departments are working together, with help from city engineers and outside contractors. The big winners are the students and school staff, who get better, safer, and more welcoming outdoor areas. This project is a direct response to what schools have been asking for, and it fits into the city's larger plans to adapt to climate change and improve the well-being of our kids.
Resources needed
The Shadow in my school project (“Sombra en mi cole”) was funded with municipal budget, with a total investment of €2.28 million for 118 interventions in over 100 schools. The human resources required were 4 civil servants.
Evidence of success
The Shadow in my school project is expected to benefit nearly 24000 students in Murcia. The positive impact is started to be tested over the 2nd quarter of 2025 where the solar radiation become more intense and playing in uncovered areas in schoolsyards in Murcia is not advisble.
Potential for learning or transfer
The Shadow in my school project can be interesting for for other regions facing similar climate challenges. Its success lies in choosing correctly the places where to install shade and choose an easy and affordable way to generate it. By using tailored, site-specific solutions such as modular shade structures it adapts to different schoolyard configurations and budgets. Key success factor was the coordination between education and urban planning departments, and engagement with school principals.
The project leverages municipal resources without requiring complex funding mechanisms. Potential barriers to transfer may primarily include limited municipal budgets, however, its high public visibility and social return on investment make it an attractive practice for cities aiming to improve children's well-being while advancing climate adaptation. Regions with hot Mediterranean climates, could implement similar models by adjusting to local school infrastructure and urban design.
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