Treed School Complexes

The Cornebarrieu School complex in France is built directly in response to the modern problems associated with climate change, instilling a sense of ecological responsibility in its students by dint of its very existence. The complex employs sustainable ecological, social, and economic strategies in its makeup.

There are over 500 trees standing nine meters or taller on the Cornebarrieu School complex. Not only does this treed environment give a de facto appreciation of nature, but they also serve a practical purpose. The shade from these strategically placed trees helps reduce the mean temperature in the complex by three degree Celsius during the summer, reducing the cost and energy that would otherwise be spent on air conditioning. Further, the walls of the classrooms are made from a translucide membrane that retains temperature while also allowing natural light to enter (and thus reducing the need for overhead lighting).