The role of parkland and its impact on Climate Change

As residents across Clarington step outside to embrace sunshine, warm weather – and all the activities that come with it – they may be surprised to learn that their favourite neighbourhood park is doing a lot more than filling free time: it’s also having a significant impact on reducing the negative effects of Climate Change.

More than 70 parks and lots of preserved green space can be found across Clarington – and the benefits stretch beyond offering residents a place to play, take an afternoon stroll or connect with others. It also:

Offers shade and cooling

Temperatures are expected to rise in Durham Region by 5℃ by the end of the century. Parks and greenspaces offer tree coverage and natural shade, resulting in a cooling effect for close surrounding areas. Densely populated areas such as towns and cities warm more than rural areas, making our parks and green spaces extra important!

Reduces the risk of flooding

Durham Region is expected to experience an increase of 250mm in precipitation by the end of the century. When water isn’t absorbed by the ground, it can travel to places like homes and businesses, causing damage through flooding. Parks, green spaces and other areas with soil absorb rainwater in ways that other materials like concrete, pavement, wood and metal cannot, reducing the overall risk of flooding.

Improves air quality

Vegetation, like trees and shrubs, naturally take in carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas (GHG) and the main contributor to climate change. By reducing the overall amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, parks and greenspaces help lessen the global warming effect. They also clean the air by taking in other damaging pollutants, which benefits both humans and the planet we call home!

So, the next time you’re out enjoying your local park or open green space, take a moment to appreciate all the hard work happening behind the scenes to help our planet! Just one of the many reasons why we #HeartYourParksClarington.