Sustainability in Recreation and Parks: Building a Better Future

February 22, 2024, Department, by David M. Pearlman, Ph.D., CHE, CHIA

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The environmental impact of everyday tools and activities is astounding. For instance, a leaf blower emits 300 times more pollutants than a pickup truck, and an hour of using a gas-powered mower equals driving 100 miles. The water demand for a grass football field is massive, guzzling as much as 100,000 gallons per week. These figures vividly illustrate our environmental footprint. Moreover, National Park Service (NPS) units generate 80 million pounds of solid waste annually (tinyurl.com/mvanzbeb), while the U.S. recycling rate sits at just 32 percent, leading to more than $7 billion worth of recyclable materials wasted.

The concept of sustainability arose in the 1970s, born from concerns about the environmental consequences of urban development. It encompasses responsible resource management for the long-term well-being of the environment, society and the economy. Within park and recreation departments, sustainability has become a central focus, reshaping urban landscapes and enriching local communities.

NRPA actively fosters resilient communities by integrating sustainability into parks and recreational spaces. Emphasizing green infrastructure, resilient communities manage stormwater, mitigate flooding and improve water quality, ensuring public access to outdoor activities for urban well-being.

This integration marks a pivotal era, prioritizing environmental responsibility, resilience and community well-being. It’s crucial for preserving natural resources, combating climate change and safeguarding ecosystems. Urban parks, acting as vital “lungs,” absorb carbon dioxide and promote community health through physical activity, reducing sedentary lifestyles and enhancing mental well-being.

Sustainably designed parks exhibit robust resilience in addressing environmental challenges, serving as crucial hubs during emergencies and boosting urban resilience. Economically, they attract visitors, enhance local tourism, generate revenue through events and improve residents’ quality of life. They also serve as educational resources, promoting awareness about environmental conservation, wildlife protection and sustainable practices.

Sustainable Practices in Action

Park and recreation departments have embraced sustainable practices in various ways:

  • Adoption of sustainable practices: Reducing environmental impact through carbon footprint reduction and waste minimization
  • Efficient resource management: Conserving water, energy and materials by implementing water-
  • saving landscaping and using renewable energy sources
  • Preservation of biodiversity: Protecting indigenous ecosystems in parks to promote biodiversity
  • Community involvement: Encouraging community participation in park planning and management
  • Stewardship of natural resources: Establishing and managing protected areas for wildlife and outdoor activities
  • Environmental education: Initiating programs to promote environmental conservation and sustainability
  • Promotion of sustainable transportation: Encouraging eco-friendly transportation methods for work fleet/maintenance vehicles
  • Waste reduction and recycling initiatives: Implementing programs to minimize ecological impact
  • Integration of green infrastructure: Including elements like rain gardens and green roofs to mitigate environmental harm and benefit the local economy

Advancing Sustainability

While the benefits of sustainability in park and recreation departments are evident, challenges exist, including limited funding, staffing issues, evolving technical needs and varying political prioritization. The lack of measuring the financial impact of sustainability activities hinders investment.

The National Park Foundation actively supports sustainability programs, such as water refill stations to reduce waste and support the diversion of millions of pounds of waste from landfills. Comparatively, park and recreation agencies interact more directly with the public, presenting a significant opportunity to foster sustainability through their frequent and intimate engagement. Following the NPS Green Parks Plan and in consideration of the current landscape, here are a few recommendations:

  • Conduct community-wide tree education/planting events: Events to educate community members and plant trees can contribute to sustainability goals and are easy to measure.
  • Establish comprehensive recycling programs: Implementing drop-off recycling centers for common recyclables can significantly reduce landfill waste. With more than 10,000 nationwide locations, park and recreation agencies are well-positioned to spearhead these initiatives.

Sustainability is reshaping the course of park and recreation agencies serving as vital community advocates, managing vast areas of land and promoting sustainability. While challenges persist, the adoption of sustainable practices promises a greener future, reducing emissions, conserving resources, supporting local economies and enhancing community well-being. By prioritizing sustainability, these agencies ensure their long-term success while contributing to a more eco-conscious society.

David M. Pearlman, Ph.D., CHE, CHIA, is an Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Hospitality Management Program at Arkansas State University.