Gesamtschule Geldern is a school in the German city of Geldern that has received attention for its innovative and environmentally friendly approach to education. It is the first school in the Kleve district to apply greening in this form. For the new building, the city of Geldern wanted the school building to feature greenery. As a result the most striking feature of the two buildings are the Outdoor SemperGreenwalls adorning their exterior. Commissioned by Vißer Bedachungen GmbH & Co.KG, Sempergreen was allowed to realise these green facades. The green facades are proof of the school’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and they serve as inspiration for other schools and institutions to follow suit. Gelderner Bau Gesellschaft mbH realised the construction.

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Green lungs of the building

One of the main advantages of living walls is that they improve the air quality inside and outside the school. Plants naturally filter the air by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. For Gesamtschule Geldern, it means that the air around the school is much cleaner and healthier. With 255 m² of green facade and almost 20,000 plants, 587 kg of CO2 is absorbed and 434 kg of oxygen is produced per year. In addition, the plants keep the heat outside which means 33% less air conditioning is needed, again saving energy. It also provides a general cooling of around 3°C in the surrounding area. 

Sustainable school policy

All in all, the living walls at Gesamtschule Geldern are a great example how innovative design and sustainability can be combined to create a healthier and more beautiful environment. By incorporating plant walls in or on their buildings, schools and other institutions can make a positive impact on the environment and the well-being of their students and staff.