In 2019, Ontario's Trent University created green parking from 35,640 pounds of recycled plastic. 7 years later, the system can hold 64,627 gallons of stormwater on campus

In 2019, Trent University in Ontario announced plans for a different approach to parking at its Symons Campus: permeable grid paving.

Made from 100% recycled plastic, the system was designed as an alternative to asphalt while helping the university address growing parking needs. The approach had become popular in Europe and was also being used around the world in agriculture, parks and industrial spaces.

How permeable grid paving works

The paving consists of interlocking grids installed over land and filled with grass or gravel.


The design provides better drainage and can reduce flood risk by increasing stormwater management capacity. The grids are also weather-resistant and can be plowed.

The system also requires far less road salt during winter, which can lessen its impact on nearby animal habitats.

Kent Stringham, vice-president of Finance and Administration at Trent, said the project would help the university balance campus growth with its environmental commitment. Stringham said, “This innovative and environmental solution to meeting campus demands boasts a number of ecological benefits including the ability to plant grass within the grid, better drainage, and less required road salt in the winter. It’s a win-win for Trent and for our environment,” as quoted by Trent University.

The project's environmental impact

The project was designed to utilize 35,640 pounds of recycled plastic.

It was also designed to detain 64,627 gallons of stormwater and save 162.9 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to planting 34,295 trees.

More parking for a growing campus

The project was expected to add approximately 100 parking spaces at Symons Campus to address increased demand as the campus grew.

Trent was slated to become the first university in Ontario to install permeable grid paving, adding the project to its long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability.

FAQs

1. What is Trent University's green parking system?

It is a permeable grid paving system designed as an alternative to conventional asphalt parking.

2. What is the parking system made from?

The paving system is made from 100% recycled plastic.

3. Where was Trent's green parking installed?

The project was installed at Trent University's Symons Campus in Ontario.

4. How does permeable grid paving work?

Interlocking grids are placed over the land and filled with grass or gravel, allowing water to drain through the surface.