Depave, a non-profit based out of Portland, Oregon, is re-claiming abandoned or under-utilized paved spaces in urban communities and turning them into green spaces for the public to enjoy. In an effort to address problems of water and air pollution, this non-profit has brought together local volunteers to rip up the black and bring up the green. So far 94,000 sq. feet of previously ugly abandoned lots in Portland have been transformed into community gardens, soccer fields, playgrounds and public green spaces.

PARKING LOTS to PARADISE // Documentary from Joey Dello Russo on Vimeo.

Bringing back a natural space isn’t just an aesthetic improvement, it can also reduce water pollution. Unlike soil, pavement is impervious so rainwater runs off it and into storm drains. Along the way, water becomes contaminated with chemicals, trash, pesticides, fertilizers and heavy metals. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these pollutants account for approximately 70% of all water pollution in the U.S because this “urban runoff” goes directly into the ocean and local bodies of water without being treated first.

Restoring un-used paved areas also improves air quality. Dense urban areas experience the urban heat island effect in hot weather, increasing summertime peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Also, Depave recycles the pavement and also shows you how to do it yourself on their website.

And on a cheesier note, green spaces bring people together and nature makes us happy. So does beating the hell out of cement. If you can’t get to Portland, Depave has a wealth of easy-to-follow online resources so you can learn how to start your own project wherever you are.

Related posts:

1. Thousands of California kids have no free tap water at school