Top 5 Eco Friendly Choices Sustainable Playground Materials

As sustainability becomes a priority in urban planning and construction, the design and materials used in playgrounds are evolving. In 2025, eco-friendly playgrounds are at the forefront, incorporating green materials and sustainable design practices that benefit both children and the environment. This blog explores the top sustainable playground materials and design trends that are shaping the future of play spaces.

1. Recycled and Upcycled Materials

One of the key trends in sustainable playground design is incorporating recycled and upcycled materials to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. As an environmentally conscious company, Miracle® Recreation follows ISO 14001:2015-certified practices to ensure in our processes. Some ways we contribute to eco-friendly playground design include:

• Reducing waste through advanced technology and improved processes

• Repurposing unused plastic regrind to prevent landfill waste

• Recycling damaged plastic molded parts to create Border Timbers

• Transforming steel cutoffs into new steel products

• Expanding recycling programs for corrugated materials, batteries, and plastics

By integrating these sustainable practices, we help create playgrounds that are both durable and environmentally responsible. 

2. Sustainably Sourced Wood

For playgrounds incorporating wood elements, using responsibly sourced timber is crucial for sustainability and longevity. FSC®-certified wood guarantees that the material comes from responsibly managed forests, ensuring environmental and social responsibility. At HAGS, we prioritize high-quality, durable woods like Scandinavian dense pine, known for its natural resistance to rot and fungal attacks. This resilient material has been successfully used in our UniPlay and UniMini play systems for over 50 years, proving its durability in various climates, from harsh winters to humid environments. Our fully computerized wood-cutting process minimizes waste, while our exclusive use of water-based, biodegradable coatings ensures no negative environmental impact. As a naturally renewable material, wood has a low carbon footprint and can be reused or sent for energy recovery, making it one of the most sustainable choices for playground construction.

NORNA PLAYGROUNDS’ play equipment is primarily made from robinia wood. Wood is one of the most sustainable raw materials we have. As trees grow, they absorb CO2. When they are harvested, the wood retains the CO2 it has absorbed, making wood the most CO2-neutral material.

The predominant wood type in most of our play equipment is robinia wood. This wood type possesses many excellent qualities, the most important here being its long lifespan. Robinia has the longest lifespan when in contact with soil. When investing in a robinia playground, the stored CO2 can remain bound for up to 32 years. All our wood comes from FSC®-certified European forests and other controlled sources. 

3. Non-Toxic, Natural Finishes

Traditional playground materials often contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to children and the environment. In 2025, more playgrounds are opting for non-toxic, water-based paints, stains, and sealants to ensure safety without compromising sustainability.

4. Permeable and Eco-Friendly Surfacing

Playground surfacing plays a crucial role in both safety and environmental impact. Sustainable options include:

• Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF): A sustainable alternative to traditional wood chips, EWF provides cushioning while being biodegradable.

• Rubber Pour In Place: For playgrounds are simi-permeable and allow some water to drain though while proving adequate fall projection.

• Grass and Natural Turf: Incorporating real grass and natural elements reduces heat absorption and encourages biodiversity and are a great way to keep the surrounding play box cool from summer heat.

5. Nature-Integrated Designs

Blending playgrounds with natural elements foster an appreciation for the environment while reducing the need for synthetic materials. Popular eco-friendly design elements include:

• Natural wood structures like Norna Playground equipment

• Natural climbing structures (e.g., boulders and logs)

• Sensory gardens with pollinator-friendly plants

Conclusion

As we move into 2025, the shift toward sustainable playgrounds is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. By embracing recycled materials, non-toxic finishes, renewable energy, and nature-focused designs, communities can create play spaces that are both fun and environmentally responsible. Investing in eco-friendly playground materials ensures a healthier future for children and the planet alike.