Implementation as more than installation: a case study of the challenges in implementing green infrastructure projects in two Australian primary schools

ABSTRACT

Green infrastructure delivers a range of benefits for urban water management, amenity, human well-being, and ecosystem health. However, the implementation of green urban infrastructure can be challenging, whether in private or public spaces. In Australia and elsewhere, there is increasing investment in green infrastructure projects in schools. To date, the implementation issues experienced in schools have not been investigated. This article reports on a case study of the range of factors influencing implementation of green infrastructure projects in two primary schools in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews with diverse stakeholders in these projects revealed four key areas of concern for implementation: 1) professional roles and relationships; 2) planning and design; 3) value to the school community; and 4) engagement of the broader community. We conclude that successful implementation is not simply the installation of well-functioning green infrastructure; rather, it is an ongoing achievement that is as social as it is technical.

KEYWORDS:

• Green infrastructure
• water sensitive urban design
• schools

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Sheridan Blunt for her advice on this research project, and the staff, students and community members who kindly shared their experiences for this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.