Playgrounds Go Green

These days, all aspects of life have sectors committed to reducing impact on mother earth, reusing materials and recycling whatever possible when functionality ceases to exist. Playground equipment is no different, and a whole new green market has opened in modern times as playground structures join the efforts of conservationism.

Many companies today are devoting part of their playground equipment business plan to green considerations in order to profit and benefit the planet. Other companies devote their entire line to play structures that appeal to environmentally minded consumers. However, no sacrifice in the fun of this playground equipment is necessary. Using earth-friendly materials, play structures identical to less ecological structures are being created. Large deck and climb type structures are available, as well as customizable forts and castles.

Playground equipment made from recycled plastic is one huge modern day innovation that reduces landfill space and provides quality product. Compressed recycled plastic from items such as plastic bags and milk jugs results in high quality, safe building materials for play structures. Slides, bridges, climbing walls, and games (such as tic-tac-toe) can all be made from recycled earth friendly plastic lumber.

Plastic isn't the only item that can be recycled and made into playground equipment. Many types of metal and recycled steel in particular, can be used for this purpose. For those that believe an authentic playground just has to be made from wood, there are options as well. Sustainably grown wood is available for play structures. Rather than simply cutting down forests, there are now 'forest farmers' that grow trees specifically for industry, planting as they harvest. There are also modern innovations that make harsh pesticides found historically in playground equipment a thing of the past.

Play structures today bear little resemblance to those of previous generations. These days you will find climbing walls, 'boulders' (made from recycled plastic), and exercise equipment mixed in with more traditional slides and swings. In fact, proper exercise goes hand in hand with modern playground equipment.

These days, many manufacturers of green play structures have some variation of a 'take back' program. These programs write agreements into their sales contracts that agree, sometimes multiple decades down the road, to accept the playground equipment once its functional life is over. The company can then recycle the old green equipment into new play structures. In addition, many companies provide extra green and/or socially conscious programs to further establish their commitment to doing the right thing. These programs can include partnering with communities in impoverished third world countries, sponsoring community clean up days, encouraging their employees to lead responsible lifestyles and providing support for the parks where their products are utilized.

The whole world is working together to green up every aspect of modern day life. Playground equipment is right in the thick of this movement, providing safe, enjoyable and responsible experiences for today's children. With the advent of green play structures, today's children are provided a positive example of how to make the world a better place.