The new benches in the outdoor areas of the Estonian University of Life Sciences combine nature and design

Additionally, trash bins (for bio-waste, mixed household waste, and packaging waste) will be added near the benches by mid-May. Until then, university students, staff, and visitors can use the nearest available bins.

The project's origins date back two years, when discussions began at the Estonian University of Life Sciences campus about the need for more seating and resting areas on the university's outdoor grounds. To provide additional comfort, the Green University working group collaborated with the Estonian Landscape Architecture Students' Association, whose help led to the creation of the first ideas, designs, and drafts.

Contribution from the Wood Laboratory and eco-friendly materials

The project was then implemented in collaboration with the Wood Laboratory, where guest lecturer Arvi Lokk and his students made a significant contribution during their practical work. Students from the Estonian Landscape Architecture Students' Association also assisted in the Wood Laboratory. Special attention was given to the eco-friendliness of the materials used – the main material for the benches is larch wood, which is renewable and recyclable. Most of the high-quality raw materials come from the Järvselja Training and Experimental Forestry Centre. Metal was also used in the construction.

Campus future planning

Additionally, a movement study was conducted to understand where people move most frequently. The results showed that the largest movement occurs between the Forestry building, the Sports building, and the main building in the afternoon and evening. This knowledge helped optimize the placement of benches and other facilities and will be considered in future planning of the campus outdoor areas.

Adapted for the future

The new benches are part of a broader strategy to create more spaces on the university campus where students, faculty, and visitors can relax and spend their free time. The project aims to promote the community spirit of the campus and provide a nature-friendly and comfortable environment, ideal for spending time outdoors.

The benches near the Forestry building are currently in a temporary location – by the end of this year, a dedicated space for them will be completed next to the café. A special space for benches will also be created near the Sports building, but before that, the benches will be placed in their temporary locations for use.