Liberties Greening Strategy
The Liberties is one of the most recognizable urban areas in Dublin and Ireland, strongly associated with old Dublin, working-class communities, and the brewing and distilling industries. While rich in history, cultural significance, and local stories, The Liberties faces numerous placemaking and quality-of-life challenges. The area continues to experience significant dereliction, a fragmented urban fabric, and a shortage of high-quality green spaces. For instance, tree coverage in The Liberties is sparse, with good-quality street trees only found in a few small areas, such as Gray St. and Reginald St., along the South Quays, Cornmarket, and near the fountain on James St. The area has approximately 1,200 trees, amounting to less than 5% canopy coverage.
In response to these challenges, Dublin City Council enacted The Liberties Greening Strategy in 2015. Building on the Liberties' Local Area Plan, this strategy aims to develop a network of new urban parks, improve access to heritage green spaces, and refurbish existing parks and play areas. It addresses multiple goals, including ecological connectivity, water management, flood risk reduction, air quality improvement, social cohesion, environmental education, and public health. This strategy is an initiative of the Parks and Landscape Services Division of Dublin City Council, in collaboration with the South Central Area Office and with input from Áit Urbanism + Landscape and Mary Tubridy & Associates.
Since its implementation in 2015, the strategy has resulted in the development of two new community parks, enhancements to several green spaces, and the greening of public spaces. It has also introduced measures to support food production in community gardens and allotments, revitalize ecosystems, strengthen water management, improve air quality, boost carbon sequestration through tree planting, divert water from the local sewer network, prevent flooding, and regulate heat. (1, 2, 3)
In response to these challenges, Dublin City Council enacted The Liberties Greening Strategy in 2015. Building on the Liberties' Local Area Plan, this strategy aims to develop a network of new urban parks, improve access to heritage green spaces, and refurbish existing parks and play areas. It addresses multiple goals, including ecological connectivity, water management, flood risk reduction, air quality improvement, social cohesion, environmental education, and public health. This strategy is an initiative of the Parks and Landscape Services Division of Dublin City Council, in collaboration with the South Central Area Office and with input from Áit Urbanism + Landscape and Mary Tubridy & Associates.
Since its implementation in 2015, the strategy has resulted in the development of two new community parks, enhancements to several green spaces, and the greening of public spaces. It has also introduced measures to support food production in community gardens and allotments, revitalize ecosystems, strengthen water management, improve air quality, boost carbon sequestration through tree planting, divert water from the local sewer network, prevent flooding, and regulate heat. (1, 2, 3)
HortaFCUL: University Community Garden
HortaFCUL is a project created and managed by the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Lisbon to raise awareness and promote the practice of permaculture as a solution to the ecological, social, and economic problems the world is facing (1). This initiative began in 2009 on the University campus through a garden, which allowed HortaFCUL to start conducting some activities that could answer some socio-environmental challenges, such as food security and sovereignty, ecosystem degradation and climate change (13), by raising awareness, teaching, and practising many aspects involved in permaculture and urban agriculture (2). Its focus has been on regenerating soil in an urban environment and creating productive landscapes for people and other beings (12). They grow different types of plants (vegetables, shrubs, trees) in different ways (swales, raised beds, greenhouses) to increase plant diversity and foster ecosystems (13).
The project is managed by students and researchers, who hold educational activities, such as courses, workshops, and dissemination activities (events, discussions, fairs, and conferences) (2). The project is organised according to a non-hierarchical sociocratic model, in which all decisions are made as a group, and where all ideas, critiques, and suggestions are seen as added value and an opportunity to improve techniques and knowledge (3). Additionally, it is open to the community, allowing anyone interested to participate and volunteer (1).
HortaFCUL is also one of the pioneering permaculture projects in operation in the Lisbon region and is now recognized as a national reference centre for permaculture (2). Since its inception, HortaFCUL has sought to be a hub that attracts people, organizations, and other initiatives, and it is currently a point of contact between different projects and associations, such as local businesses, educational institutions, and networks (5).
The project is managed by students and researchers, who hold educational activities, such as courses, workshops, and dissemination activities (events, discussions, fairs, and conferences) (2). The project is organised according to a non-hierarchical sociocratic model, in which all decisions are made as a group, and where all ideas, critiques, and suggestions are seen as added value and an opportunity to improve techniques and knowledge (3). Additionally, it is open to the community, allowing anyone interested to participate and volunteer (1).
HortaFCUL is also one of the pioneering permaculture projects in operation in the Lisbon region and is now recognized as a national reference centre for permaculture (2). Since its inception, HortaFCUL has sought to be a hub that attracts people, organizations, and other initiatives, and it is currently a point of contact between different projects and associations, such as local businesses, educational institutions, and networks (5).
The Great Lakes Way
The stretch of the Great Lakes basin ecosystem from southern Lake Huron through western Lake Erie forms a unique urban refuge where life thrives with beauty and resilience. Known as Metropolitan Detroit, this region is where the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and many partners are working to create The Great Lakes Way by connecting 160 miles of greenways and 156 miles of water trails (1).
The vision for the Great Lakes Way project is to ensure that all residents and visitors of southeast Michigan—people of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, abilities, and interests—feel connected to the water resources, welcomed on its trails, and able to enjoy the benefits and opportunities these access points provide (1). To bring this vision to life, the project plans to link 160 miles of greenways and 156 miles of blueways, connecting people to a range of world-class freshwater, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. These include fishing areas, bird migration pathways, parks, working waterways, preserved woodlands, and restored wetlands (2).
The Great Lakes Way project connects existing assets, supports accessibility and equity, and promotes the Great Lakes Way to both residents and visitors through marketing and communication efforts (2). There are 26 points of interest that will serve as connection hubs along the Great Lakes Way (2). In Detroit specifically, the focus is on connecting 13 culturally or historically significant destinations, as well as locations known for their environmental and ecological importance or as regional landmarks (2).
Rich in world-class fisheries, migratory flyways, parks, urban centers, small towns, preserved old-growth woodlands, and restored wetlands, the Great Lakes Way offers unique experiences that can only be found here. By uniting the natural and cultural assets the Great Lakes Way designation aims to emphasize and expand the essential linkages needed to further connect this remarkable region. (2,3)
The vision for the Great Lakes Way project is to ensure that all residents and visitors of southeast Michigan—people of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, abilities, and interests—feel connected to the water resources, welcomed on its trails, and able to enjoy the benefits and opportunities these access points provide (1). To bring this vision to life, the project plans to link 160 miles of greenways and 156 miles of blueways, connecting people to a range of world-class freshwater, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. These include fishing areas, bird migration pathways, parks, working waterways, preserved woodlands, and restored wetlands (2).
The Great Lakes Way project connects existing assets, supports accessibility and equity, and promotes the Great Lakes Way to both residents and visitors through marketing and communication efforts (2). There are 26 points of interest that will serve as connection hubs along the Great Lakes Way (2). In Detroit specifically, the focus is on connecting 13 culturally or historically significant destinations, as well as locations known for their environmental and ecological importance or as regional landmarks (2).
Rich in world-class fisheries, migratory flyways, parks, urban centers, small towns, preserved old-growth woodlands, and restored wetlands, the Great Lakes Way offers unique experiences that can only be found here. By uniting the natural and cultural assets the Great Lakes Way designation aims to emphasize and expand the essential linkages needed to further connect this remarkable region. (2,3)
Protection of the Booterstown Marsh
Booterstown Marsh, the only remaining saltmarsh on the south shore of Dublin Bay, plays a crucial role in the Dublin Bay Protection Plan. As part of South Dublin Bay's protected landscape, this unique 4.3-hectare brackish water marsh provides vital environmental and educational value within an urban setting. It supports three key habitats, ranging from freshwater to saltwater, creating essential feeding and roosting grounds for an array of migratory birds. The marsh attracts numerous bird species, including Moorhen, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler, Teal, Snipe, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Dunlin, and Brent Geese, establishing it as the only bird sanctuary in South Dublin Bay.
Booterstown Marsh’s ecological significance is underscored by its inclusion in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-2025: Nature Recovery, Restoration & Reconnection. Managed by the Biodiversity Section of the council, this initiative focuses on protecting and enhancing Booterstown Marsh as part of a broader effort to restore natural habitats across the area. The council’s project addresses key factors in biodiversity loss—such as land use pressures, climate change, and invasive species—by implementing an annual monitoring program to prevent deterioration of critical EU Annex habitats and species.
An Taisce, a local NGO has managed the marsh reserve since the 1970s, dedicating efforts to conservation and public education. This habitat, along with other local ecosystems like the wetlands at Ballycorus and woodlands at Loughlinstown, serves as an essential natural defense against climate change, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping stabilize local landscapes by slowing floodwaters in catchment areas.(1-6)
Booterstown Marsh’s ecological significance is underscored by its inclusion in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-2025: Nature Recovery, Restoration & Reconnection. Managed by the Biodiversity Section of the council, this initiative focuses on protecting and enhancing Booterstown Marsh as part of a broader effort to restore natural habitats across the area. The council’s project addresses key factors in biodiversity loss—such as land use pressures, climate change, and invasive species—by implementing an annual monitoring program to prevent deterioration of critical EU Annex habitats and species.
An Taisce, a local NGO has managed the marsh reserve since the 1970s, dedicating efforts to conservation and public education. This habitat, along with other local ecosystems like the wetlands at Ballycorus and woodlands at Loughlinstown, serves as an essential natural defense against climate change, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping stabilize local landscapes by slowing floodwaters in catchment areas.(1-6)
Urban Center of Good Initiatives (CUIB)
The Urban Center of Good Initiatives (CUIB), a social enterprise launched by the NGO Mai Bine in 2013, is designed to drive social economies and support sustainable development in Iasi. The enterprise operates a bistro that promotes social consumption by supporting local producers, adhering to slow food principles through the use of local and seasonal ingredients, minimizing food waste, and encouraging sustainable transportation, among other eco-friendly activities (2 & 4).
In 2020, CUIB and Mai Bine joined the FoodE program, a European research and social project focused on local agri-food systems. Funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020), the initiative empowered grassroots organizations through co-creation and collaboration among diverse stakeholders (5).
The FoodE project strengthened CUIB’s mission to provide low-carbon-impact food, promote ecological, ethical, and artisanal products, offer solidarity services such as free meals for the most vulnerable, engage in low-waste operations, provide education on mental and human ecology, and foster community through social and cultural events (1, p. 98). To further these goals, CUIB organized co-design workshops with 100 community members, focusing on achieving zero food miles, zero waste, and eliminating food waste (1, p. 99).
The program also led to improvements at the bistro, including the creation of a courtyard garden, a small terrace garden, along with a community garden (1, p. 100). These gardens supplied food to the bistro, and bio-waste was composted to fertilize the plots (1, p. 102). CUIB also hosted 17 outreach events as part of the initiative, including ecological workshops and the creation of a vegetable garden at a local kindergarten (3, p. 114 & 6).
Beyond its environmental work, CUIB provides free meals for 100 beneficiaries and organizes food donations for 400 vulnerable children and individuals (1, p. 103).
In 2020, CUIB and Mai Bine joined the FoodE program, a European research and social project focused on local agri-food systems. Funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020), the initiative empowered grassroots organizations through co-creation and collaboration among diverse stakeholders (5).
The FoodE project strengthened CUIB’s mission to provide low-carbon-impact food, promote ecological, ethical, and artisanal products, offer solidarity services such as free meals for the most vulnerable, engage in low-waste operations, provide education on mental and human ecology, and foster community through social and cultural events (1, p. 98). To further these goals, CUIB organized co-design workshops with 100 community members, focusing on achieving zero food miles, zero waste, and eliminating food waste (1, p. 99).
The program also led to improvements at the bistro, including the creation of a courtyard garden, a small terrace garden, along with a community garden (1, p. 100). These gardens supplied food to the bistro, and bio-waste was composted to fertilize the plots (1, p. 102). CUIB also hosted 17 outreach events as part of the initiative, including ecological workshops and the creation of a vegetable garden at a local kindergarten (3, p. 114 & 6).
Beyond its environmental work, CUIB provides free meals for 100 beneficiaries and organizes food donations for 400 vulnerable children and individuals (1, p. 103).
Historical and natural heritage park
Located in the municipality of Morne Rouge, the Domaine d’Émeraude was once an agricultural site but was transferred to the Martinique Regional Natural Park (PNRM) in the early 2000s. It underwent significant renovations in 2005 to transform it into a sanctuary for Martinican biodiversity, reflecting the need to protect and conserve the island's unique ecosystems. In 2011, it opened its doors to the public, serving as an important educational resource that raises awareness about the island's historical, natural, and cultural heritage (Refs 4, 7, 8).
Today, the site encompasses 25 hectares protected from anthropogenic pressures and is primarily characterized by a humid tropical forest environment, which makes up 80% of the area (Ref 7). It is home to over a hundred native species (Ref 4) and offers nearly 4 kilometers of walking trails accessible to both adults and children, complete with recreational stops and educational amenities.
The Domaine d’Émeraude was designed to enhance the conservation of native species while developing sustainable economic activities that benefit the local community. Moreover, the site emphasizes the well-being that forested areas provide to visitors, highlighting that "the air can be heard, the smells can be savored, and the sounds can be experienced. The freshness of the place is a source of change and relaxation..." (Ref 4).
Today, the site encompasses 25 hectares protected from anthropogenic pressures and is primarily characterized by a humid tropical forest environment, which makes up 80% of the area (Ref 7). It is home to over a hundred native species (Ref 4) and offers nearly 4 kilometers of walking trails accessible to both adults and children, complete with recreational stops and educational amenities.
The Domaine d’Émeraude was designed to enhance the conservation of native species while developing sustainable economic activities that benefit the local community. Moreover, the site emphasizes the well-being that forested areas provide to visitors, highlighting that "the air can be heard, the smells can be savored, and the sounds can be experienced. The freshness of the place is a source of change and relaxation..." (Ref 4).
Ventanilla Wetlands
The "Ventanilla Wetlands" Regional Conservation Area (ACR) is an area of 275.45 hectares protected and administered by the Regional Management of Natural Resources and Environmental Management of the Regional Government of Callao (1, 2). It was established on December 20, 2006, by Supreme Decree No. 074-2006-AG, to conserve a representative sample of the coastal wetlands of the Subtropical Pacific Desert (2). With an ecosystem shaped by various hydrological and ecological processes, the "Ventanilla Wetlands" ACR is home to 126 bird species and 27 native plant species, making it an ideal area for ecotourism, recreational, educational, scientific, and cultural activities, thanks to its landscapes and biodiversity (2). However, the Ventanilla Wetlands face several challenges due to urban growth, water pollution, waste, traffic and plane overflights from the National Police and Navy, leading to a decline in bird populations due to noise exposure (5).
This area is fed by the hydrological system of the Chillón River, by surface waters from the Sedapal oxidation ponds, and by water seepage from nearby human settlements and populations adjacent to the wetland. The Ventanilla Wetlands are also influenced by the marine system, especially in the northwest zone. This gives the ACR area lagoon-like characteristics, meaning that its waters are slightly brackish despite being separated from the sea. The internal hydrological system supports the growth of species such as cattails, bulrushes, and reeds. In total, there are 27 native plant species, which serve the function of filtering and purifying the wetland's water. Additionally, the flora provides protection and food for various fauna species, particularly birds, with 126 species recorded, including resident and migratory birds from the Andes, local areas, and the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Moreover, this protected natural area is home to five reptile species, including endemic species from Lima that are endangered (3).
This area is fed by the hydrological system of the Chillón River, by surface waters from the Sedapal oxidation ponds, and by water seepage from nearby human settlements and populations adjacent to the wetland. The Ventanilla Wetlands are also influenced by the marine system, especially in the northwest zone. This gives the ACR area lagoon-like characteristics, meaning that its waters are slightly brackish despite being separated from the sea. The internal hydrological system supports the growth of species such as cattails, bulrushes, and reeds. In total, there are 27 native plant species, which serve the function of filtering and purifying the wetland's water. Additionally, the flora provides protection and food for various fauna species, particularly birds, with 126 species recorded, including resident and migratory birds from the Andes, local areas, and the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Moreover, this protected natural area is home to five reptile species, including endemic species from Lima that are endangered (3).
Kikås dump: from waste to biodiversity
The Kikås dump is a landfill in Mölndal, south of Gothenburg, where an area has been permanently covered with a sealing layer and inert material. This project aimed to utilise the area to increase biodiversity by establishing flowering meadows and an insect hotel, creating a habitat for wild bees, butterflies and birds [Ref. 1-3]. The City of Mölndal initated the project and sowed meadow flowers, established sand beds for burrowing insects, an uneven, rocky terrain and a large insect hotel [Ref. 1, 3]. The area is also meant to be a destination for recreation and learning about biodiversity. The Insect Hotel is marketed as the largest in Sweden, and it includes information signs and an outdoor classroom. The project is meant to raise awareness about biodiversity and ecosystem services such as pollination [Ref. 1, 4-6]. The area borders natural areas such as forests and wetlands and is meant to have positive ecological effects in the border zones. The project will contribute to the environmental goals of the city, in particular, "a rich plant and animal life" [Ref. 3]
Medal of Honor Park Improvements
Medal of Honour Park, located in West Mobile, is the city's second-largest park (Ref 3, video). A City-County partnership is planning to implement significant changes to the park and its amenities (Ref 3). These changes include crowning and sodding the field, surrounded by large oaks, making it an oasis in the middle of the city (Ref 1, Ref 5). The project will focus on upgrading recreational and sports facilities, such as improvements to the golf area (Ref 1), tennis courts, and softball fields (Ref 1, 4). Additionally, the playground will be entirely rebuilt, featuring RSA Tower slides, new drinking fountains, new fencing, and rubber play surfaces for added safety (Ref 3). Cultural and social enhancements are also part of the plan, including upgrades to the amphitheatre (Ref 1). Visitors will enjoy a walking trail that allows them to experience nature while exploring the park. Other amenities receiving upgrades include lighting, wayfinding signage (Ref 1), as well as improvements to the concession stands and restrooms (Ref 4). Traffic circulation within the park will also see enhancements, particularly at the street intersection and surrounding landscaping (Ref 1).
This park is a popular destination, attracting kids and families from all over the region (Ref 3, video). Importantly, it meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility for everyone (Ref 5).
This park is a popular destination, attracting kids and families from all over the region (Ref 3, video). Importantly, it meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility for everyone (Ref 5).
Sustainable renovation of schoolyard
The schoolyard at Reginhard Primary School in Reinickendorf faced persistent challenges, often becoming unusable due to poor drainage. After rainfall, water would pool, leaving the yard submerged and inaccessible to the 400 primary school pupils. Even in dry weather, the schoolyard was far from ideal: a lack of play equipment made it uninviting, and in summer, the area became excessively hot, offering little comfort or shade. Both children and the school community, including teaching staff and parents, voiced a strong desire for improvement.
Adding to the urgency for redesign, Berliner Wasserbetriebe imposed a discharge restriction, requiring rainwater to be managed on-site. This led to a comprehensive transformation of the school grounds. Large areas were unsealed, allowing water to seep naturally into the ground. Underground seepage systems were installed to enhance drainage, and the redesign introduced green spaces, a school garden, and near-natural play and exercise areas. These changes not only resolved the flooding issue but also created a more inviting and sustainable environment for students.
The focus on ecological and sustainable design improved the microclimate, providing cooler surroundings and enabling outdoor breaks filled with activity and fresh air. The redesign transformed the schoolyard into a vibrant space that meets the needs of both children and the environment.
This project was funded by the Berlin Programme for Sustainable Development (BENE Umwelt) and financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). (Ref. 3; Ref. 4)
Adding to the urgency for redesign, Berliner Wasserbetriebe imposed a discharge restriction, requiring rainwater to be managed on-site. This led to a comprehensive transformation of the school grounds. Large areas were unsealed, allowing water to seep naturally into the ground. Underground seepage systems were installed to enhance drainage, and the redesign introduced green spaces, a school garden, and near-natural play and exercise areas. These changes not only resolved the flooding issue but also created a more inviting and sustainable environment for students.
The focus on ecological and sustainable design improved the microclimate, providing cooler surroundings and enabling outdoor breaks filled with activity and fresh air. The redesign transformed the schoolyard into a vibrant space that meets the needs of both children and the environment.
This project was funded by the Berlin Programme for Sustainable Development (BENE Umwelt) and financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). (Ref. 3; Ref. 4)
