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28 May 2025
The Future of Playgrounds: Embracing Inclusivity and Eco-Friendly Design
Playgrounds have always been a highlight for many in childhood, providing spaces for physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play. Over the past two decades, playground design has evolved significantly, driven by advancements in technology, a growing emphasis on inclusivity, and a heightened awareness of environmental sustainability. As we look towards the future, these trends are set to redefine the playground experience, making it more inclusive and eco-friendly.
Playground Trends 20 Years Ago
Twenty years ago, playgrounds were primarily focused on physical activity with traditional equipment like swings, slides, and monkey bars. Safety was a major concern, leading to the widespread use of rubberised surfaces to prevent injuries. However, these playgrounds often lacked inclusivity and environmental considerations. The designs were standardised, with little variation or creativity, and materials used were not always sustainable.
Changes and Reasons
The shift in playground design over the years can be attributed to several factors. Increased awareness of the importance of inclusivity has led to the development of playgrounds that cater to children of all abilities. Research into child development has highlighted the need for sensory-rich environments that stimulate cognitive and emotional growth. Additionally, the global push towards sustainability has influenced the choice of materials and design practices in playground construction.
Playground Trends in 2025
As we move through 2025, playgrounds are becoming more innovative and diverse. Here are some key trends shaping modern play spaces:
- Inclusive Design: Inclusivity is at the forefront of playground design. ADA-compliant playgrounds are now a priority, ensuring that children of all abilities can play together. Features like sensory play elements, ramps, accessible swings, and interactive panels are becoming standard. These designs not only accommodate physical disabilities but also cater to children with sensory processing disorders, providing a more holistic play experience. Additionally, the development of guidelines for inclusive play at new housing developments, such as the ‘Barratt Homes Development Inclusive Play Standards’ which idverde Creating Play helped produce, is encouraging specified standards for all new play areas.
- Sustainable Materials: Eco-consciousness is driving the use of sustainable materials in playground construction. Recycled plastic, rubber, and sustainable wood are preferred choices. These materials are durable, non-toxic, and have a lower environmental impact. idverde Creating Play uses suppliers that support similar sustainable goals, such as rubber surfacing removals that proceed to recycle the rubber off-site, reducing the impact of waste going to landfill. Additionally, natural elements are being integrated into playgrounds, creating organic play environments that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Sustainable Materials Shaping Modern Playgrounds
Sustainable playgrounds prioritise the use of eco-friendly materials and practices. Recycled rubber and plastic are commonly used for playground surfaces and equipment. These materials are not only durable but also reduce waste and environmental impact. Natural materials like FSC certified timbers, high-quality softwoods with longer-lasting warranties, and hard-wearing hardwoods such as robinia are incorporated to create a connection with nature and promote ecological responsibility.
Green spaces with native plants and trees enhance biodiversity and provide a healthier play environment for children. Metal and steel equipment still have their place due to their robust quality, fitting well in many environments. Essentially, if the material suits the environment it is in, they are all being built to last with ethically and sustainably sourced materials.
Embracing Natural Play
Play areas that are embracing natural play, are encouraging sustainability from a multi-dimensional approach. These play areas are incorporating more elements to support local ecosystems, such as mini-beast totem poles and huts, sensory planting, and living willow features like domes and tunnels. These features allow children to engage directly with nature, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and promoting ecological awareness through play.
Looking Ahead: 2026-2030
From 2026 to 2030, new laws are coming into place to encourage the use of more recycled materials, particularly plastics, for the transport of goods and packaging. This includes the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme and adjustments to the Plastic Packaging Tax. These measures aim to increase the use of recycled materials and ensure all packaging is fully recyclable by 2030.
idverde Creating Play are already ahead of the curve, implementing and reviewing these changes now before the laws even come into place. idverde Creating Play are at the forefront within the industry, making plans to align with these upcoming regulations. We continue to see the rise of sustainability from a commercial perspective, ensuring that our practices not only meet but exceed future standards.
Conclusion
The future of playgrounds is bright, with inclusive design and sustainable materials shaping modern play spaces. These advancements are not only enhancing the play experience for children but also promoting environmental sustainability and inclusivity. As we continue to embrace these trends, playgrounds will become more diverse, engaging, and beneficial for all children, fostering their physical, cognitive, and emotional development in a safe, fun, and stimulating environment.
