How Green Schoolyards Create Economic Value

This report, authored by former Federal Reserve economist Rob Grunewald, investigates the economic returns that can accompany investments in greening school grounds. We know that green schoolyards can have environmental, academic and health benefits for students and communities. This report shows that green schoolyards can also have economic benefits for students, families and the surrounding communities.

The report finds that 60 cents are returned to the community for every dollar spent on green schoolyards. Taking into account gains in graduation rates and community health, the overall return to the community is more than $3 returned for every dollar invested. Positive economic effects are also indicated in children’s improved long-term health and sustainability behaviors, increased pollinator habitat, and boosted community cohesion and public safety. Additional economic benefits to the school districts at large include increased enrollment and funding, improved working conditions for teachers, and potential to attract support for bond measures.

The report draws upon data from a 12-year study of Denver public schools which uniquely compared outcomes before and after green schoolyard conversions at 99 schools with those at 80 control schools. Thanks to this unique design, the study revealed causal outcomes, not just correlations.