Community garden Ayllu 21
In 2018, a group of residents from Sector II in the Villa El Salvador district initiated a communal effort to transform an abandoned space into an urban garden (3). This is how Ayllu 21, the first community-based agroecological garden in Villa El Salvador, was born. The project was spearheaded by a group of mostly migrant senior women who decided to dedicate their time and labour to reclaiming a landfill space, to turn it into a productive green area (1). Their philosophy is rooted in the concept of "ayllu," a Quechua word signifying family, collective identity, solidarity, and respect for the environment to foster harmonious coexistence (3).
Today, Ayllu 21 spans 1400 square meters and features 40 plots where agroecological practices are employed (1, 3). The garden aims to become a space for comprehensive development, through promoting environmental awareness, political advocacy, and the fight against gender-based violence in a district that ranks third in the number of violence cases (1).
The vegetables produced are primarily for self-consumption, with any surplus distributed among neighbouring families. If there are any sales, the profits are shared among the members, who work an average of two days per week in the garden (3).
This space seeks to strengthen socialization among women and seniors and foster learning and community-building among neighbours through agriculture. It was initiated with the support of IPES Promotion of Sustainable Development as part of the Sowing in the Desert program (3, 6), and it has received support from a diversity of programmes, such as the framework of the Women United for Food and Environmental Security (MUSA) (1).
Today, Ayllu 21 spans 1400 square meters and features 40 plots where agroecological practices are employed (1, 3). The garden aims to become a space for comprehensive development, through promoting environmental awareness, political advocacy, and the fight against gender-based violence in a district that ranks third in the number of violence cases (1).
The vegetables produced are primarily for self-consumption, with any surplus distributed among neighbouring families. If there are any sales, the profits are shared among the members, who work an average of two days per week in the garden (3).
This space seeks to strengthen socialization among women and seniors and foster learning and community-building among neighbours through agriculture. It was initiated with the support of IPES Promotion of Sustainable Development as part of the Sowing in the Desert program (3, 6), and it has received support from a diversity of programmes, such as the framework of the Women United for Food and Environmental Security (MUSA) (1).
Maya's Farm
Maya’s Farm is a small, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) sustainable urban farm located in Phoenix, Arizona, where urban development has limited farmland availability. In 2020 alone, Phoenix lost nearly 200 acres of farmland to urban sprawl, putting farms like Maya’s at risk. The farm faced potential closure until the City of Phoenix intervened, providing funding through the Farm Preservation Program, which established the city's first urban agricultural conservation easement. Maya's Farm strives to inspire a local appreciation for sustainable food and to bring renewed value to local food systems.
The farm’s mission is to provide accessible, fresh, locally grown produce to the community while promoting awareness of healthy, sustainable food practices. Through its CSA program, members receive a weekly produce box and have opportunities to come together, honor food traditions, and share stories over locally harvested food. As a CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certified organic farm, Maya’s Farm is committed to organic practices that exclude GMOs, nurture the soil, foster biodiversity, and innovate growing systems. These methods result in healthy soil and cleaner air, contribute to carbon sequestration, and support critical wildlife habitats.
To broaden educational outreach, Maya’s Farm offers several programs that promote sustainable food practices, including its CSA program, an edible classroom series, and a partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). Through this ASU partnership, students gain hands-on experience by participating in daily farm operations.
Building stronger community connections is another cornerstone of Maya's Farm’s work. The farm collaborates with local restaurants, farmers' markets, and community groups to expand its impact. Maya’s Farm, ASU, and Arizona Sustainability Alliance launched an agrivoltaics project with solar-shaded crops. (2, 9, 11, 13, 15)
The farm’s mission is to provide accessible, fresh, locally grown produce to the community while promoting awareness of healthy, sustainable food practices. Through its CSA program, members receive a weekly produce box and have opportunities to come together, honor food traditions, and share stories over locally harvested food. As a CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certified organic farm, Maya’s Farm is committed to organic practices that exclude GMOs, nurture the soil, foster biodiversity, and innovate growing systems. These methods result in healthy soil and cleaner air, contribute to carbon sequestration, and support critical wildlife habitats.
To broaden educational outreach, Maya’s Farm offers several programs that promote sustainable food practices, including its CSA program, an edible classroom series, and a partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). Through this ASU partnership, students gain hands-on experience by participating in daily farm operations.
Building stronger community connections is another cornerstone of Maya's Farm’s work. The farm collaborates with local restaurants, farmers' markets, and community groups to expand its impact. Maya’s Farm, ASU, and Arizona Sustainability Alliance launched an agrivoltaics project with solar-shaded crops. (2, 9, 11, 13, 15)
Warrendale Bio-retention Flower-gardens
"The Neighborhood, Environment & Water Research Collaborations for Green Infrastructure (NEW-GI)" project in Warrendale, Detroit, aims to advance green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) knowledge and practice in legacy cities by integrating research on water quality, community well-being, governance, and ecological design. This collaborative effort, involving community members, government entities, and academic researchers, seeks to develop evidence-based strategies for sustainable stormwater management while enhancing urban landscapes and improving residents' quality of life.
In its first phase (2014-2015), the project created bioretention four bioretention gardens, each on two vacant residential properties in the Warrendale neighborhood. in Detroit's Warrendale neighborhood. These sites, constructed by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) on vacant lots owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA), were monitored for water quality, and resident surveys were conducted to gauge the gardens' impact on neighborhood satisfaction and stormwater management.
The second phase (2016-2019) expanded the scope to refine GSI designs to reduce maintenance needs and further assess their effects on water management and community well-being. It also explored governance structures that impact GSI success, both in Detroit and other legacy cities, contributing to the development of guidance documents for GSI planning and decision-making.
Funded by the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, the NEW-GI project represents a transdisciplinary approach to urban ecological challenges, offering valuable insights into how GSI can deliver both environmental and social benefits in cities like Detroit.
(Ref.1,2)
In its first phase (2014-2015), the project created bioretention four bioretention gardens, each on two vacant residential properties in the Warrendale neighborhood. in Detroit's Warrendale neighborhood. These sites, constructed by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) on vacant lots owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA), were monitored for water quality, and resident surveys were conducted to gauge the gardens' impact on neighborhood satisfaction and stormwater management.
The second phase (2016-2019) expanded the scope to refine GSI designs to reduce maintenance needs and further assess their effects on water management and community well-being. It also explored governance structures that impact GSI success, both in Detroit and other legacy cities, contributing to the development of guidance documents for GSI planning and decision-making.
Funded by the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, the NEW-GI project represents a transdisciplinary approach to urban ecological challenges, offering valuable insights into how GSI can deliver both environmental and social benefits in cities like Detroit.
(Ref.1,2)
Eastside Lake Baisha Park
At the beginning of the twenty-first century, Kunming’s urban planning faced major challenges, including fragmented development, environmental degradation, and limited green spaces (Ref 1). In response, the municipal government launched a series of strategic plans aimed at promoting high-quality urban development and environmental restoration.
Baisha Lake was identified as a key area in these strategies, with plans for Baisha Lake Park first highlighted in 2017 (Ref 2) and reaffirmed in the "Opinions on Supporting High-Quality Development in Kunming" in 2021 (Ref 2). To implement parts of this broader strategy, the government entered into public-private partnerships. In 2018, land development rights for parts of East Baisha Lake were granted to Dahua Group, on the condition that 40% of the area be reserved as green space and that ecological restoration efforts be undertaken (Ref 3, 4).
The Eastside Baisha Lake Park project, launched by Dahua Group in February 2023 (Ref 3, 5), is thus one component of this larger government-led urban renewal effort. The project follows the city's planning framework of “one lake, six zones, 46 scenic nodes” and includes 55 hectares of green space, with 40% designated as parkland. By the end of 2023, 6.5 hectares had been completed, and the south bank of the park opened to the public in September 2023 (Ref 3, 6).
The broader East Baisha Lake area's development was originally planned by the state-owned Kunming Urban Construction Company, but land rights were later transferred to Dahua Group. Thus, while a private developer is leading the construction, the project remains a part of Kunming’s publicly driven strategy to restore the lake and enhance urban livability.
Baisha Lake was identified as a key area in these strategies, with plans for Baisha Lake Park first highlighted in 2017 (Ref 2) and reaffirmed in the "Opinions on Supporting High-Quality Development in Kunming" in 2021 (Ref 2). To implement parts of this broader strategy, the government entered into public-private partnerships. In 2018, land development rights for parts of East Baisha Lake were granted to Dahua Group, on the condition that 40% of the area be reserved as green space and that ecological restoration efforts be undertaken (Ref 3, 4).
The Eastside Baisha Lake Park project, launched by Dahua Group in February 2023 (Ref 3, 5), is thus one component of this larger government-led urban renewal effort. The project follows the city's planning framework of “one lake, six zones, 46 scenic nodes” and includes 55 hectares of green space, with 40% designated as parkland. By the end of 2023, 6.5 hectares had been completed, and the south bank of the park opened to the public in September 2023 (Ref 3, 6).
The broader East Baisha Lake area's development was originally planned by the state-owned Kunming Urban Construction Company, but land rights were later transferred to Dahua Group. Thus, while a private developer is leading the construction, the project remains a part of Kunming’s publicly driven strategy to restore the lake and enhance urban livability.
Xishan Disctrict Wenxing Pocket Park
Due to rapid urbanization and development, cities in China, including Kunming, face challenges in managing neglected urban spaces, particularly vacated demolition sites and leftover land (Ref 1, 2, 3). To address this issue and enhance residents' well-being, Kunming has created 400 pocket parks since 2022, transforming forgotten corners into vibrant green spaces (Ref 4, 5).
One of these parks, Wenxing Pocket Park in Xishan District, was built in 2023 on 2.3 hectares of land (Ref 6). Located next to a secondary school and two protected historical relics, the park not only preserves historical heritage but also reflects cultural value (Ref 6, 7). In addition to increasing urban green spaces, the park provides recreational and physical facilities for residents, children, and students (Ref 6). Its design is inspired by traditional architectural styles and incorporates wood craftsmanship, as well as ecological sponge facilities (Ref 6, 7).
The park also features science gardens, promoting awareness and knowledge of herbs and sustainability (Ref 6). The project employs methods such as infiltration, stagnation, storage, purification, and drainage to manage rainwater effectively. By utilizing the natural terrain, it creates ecological dry streams and sunken gardens that absorb and store rainwater, helping to control runoff. This approach aligns with the "sponge city" concept, promoting natural water accumulation, infiltration, and purification.
Additionally, the integration of various plants enhances the microclimate, supporting local wildlife and creating a healthy, vibrant public space. The Wenxing Pocket Park has been implemented by the Municipality of Xishan. (Ref.6,7)
One of these parks, Wenxing Pocket Park in Xishan District, was built in 2023 on 2.3 hectares of land (Ref 6). Located next to a secondary school and two protected historical relics, the park not only preserves historical heritage but also reflects cultural value (Ref 6, 7). In addition to increasing urban green spaces, the park provides recreational and physical facilities for residents, children, and students (Ref 6). Its design is inspired by traditional architectural styles and incorporates wood craftsmanship, as well as ecological sponge facilities (Ref 6, 7).
The park also features science gardens, promoting awareness and knowledge of herbs and sustainability (Ref 6). The project employs methods such as infiltration, stagnation, storage, purification, and drainage to manage rainwater effectively. By utilizing the natural terrain, it creates ecological dry streams and sunken gardens that absorb and store rainwater, helping to control runoff. This approach aligns with the "sponge city" concept, promoting natural water accumulation, infiltration, and purification.
Additionally, the integration of various plants enhances the microclimate, supporting local wildlife and creating a healthy, vibrant public space. The Wenxing Pocket Park has been implemented by the Municipality of Xishan. (Ref.6,7)
Liquid 3: Serbia's First Urban Photo-Bioreactor
Liquid 3 is the first urban photo-bioreactor in Serbia, developed by an interdisciplinary team at the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research at the University of Belgrade (Ref. 1,2,3). Prompted by an appeal of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the team was eager to find novel approaches to combat the city's severe air pollution issues while being space efficient and providing year-round benefits (Ref. 3). The key to the bioreactor are algae which are very efficient in sequestering carbon and filtering heavy metals from the air (Ref. 2). A Liquid 3 feature can be quickly set and occupies a plot of only 3 m². Some of its benefits include its ability to withstand high levels of air pollution and its ease of installation on surfaces like walkways and other sealed infrastructure (Ref. 2,3). Additionally, by design, Liquid 3 integrates amenities such as power outlets, a bench, and nighttime lighting (Ref. 1). The selected strain of algae can tolerate temperatures between 5-35°C making it deployable all year. However, monthly maintenance is required, during which the water and algae are replaced—both of which can be repurposed, for example, as fertilizers (Ref. 6).The project has received global media coverage as well as a prize for the best innovative and climate-smart solution in Serbia. Its success has prompted the installation of two more such bioreactors in Serbia, with interest coming from other countries such as Hungary and the UAE (Ref. 1,4).
Park Lineal de Crespo
The Parque Lineal de Crespo in Cartagena, Colombia, is an urban green space built in 2016-2017 that had fallen into neglect (ref 4) and recently has undergone revitalization initiatives (ref 2). Announced in January 2024 by the Mayor of Cartagena, Dumek Turbay Paz, the project aims to reclaim and enhance this public park as a hub for recreation and community activities, fostering urban well-being and environmental stewardship (ref 2 and 3). The local government spearheads the intervention, and the Instituto Distrital de Deporte y Recreación (IDER) has been tasked with the park's management, ensuring its upkeep and the development of activities. The project was launched following an inspection by the Mayor and other local officials, who underscored the need for better infrastructure, safety, lighting, and green coverage through tree planting (ref 2 and 3). The primary objectives of the Parque Lineal de Crespo project include revitalising the park through enhanced maintenance, security, and the introduction of recreational and sports facilities. The project also aims to relocate weekend recreational activities, such as a popular bike path (ciclovía), from the congested Avenida Santander to the park, thereby reducing traffic disruptions and enhancing safety (ref 2 and 3). The park is relevant for the city because it combats coastal erosion caused by the rising Caribbean waters (Ref 1). The Park aims to be an icon of culture and recreation (ref 1). The project inspired a neighbours initiative, the Friends of the Crespo Linear Park, are a non-profit organization whose objective is to collaborate in the conservation of the Park by contributing awareness initiatives to the population, alerting authorities, and developing new ways to interact with the environment, such as guided bird watching activities and sports (ref 1).
Urban regeneration of Silk District
The Silk District is a real estate project by Prime Kapital in partnership with MAS P.L.C., integrating green spaces into its urban design (1-10). It focuses on regenerating a brownfield site, an abandoned industrial area left undeveloped in one of Iasi's neighborhoods (1). The project aims to revitalize the area, improving its aesthetics, reducing pollution, and repurposing it into a commercial and residential space (1). A key feature of the project is the incorporation of green spaces throughout its design (1).
The development spans 101,000 square meters, with 40,500 square meters (combined) dedicated to green spaces and "car-free" open areas (1, 2, 6, p.2). These green elements are designed to offer spaces for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction, while also contributing to environmental benefits such as air filtration, temperature regulation, rainwater drainage, and soil erosion prevention, all promoting better health for residents (1, 2, 4, 6, p.12). The landscape design includes “green islands” and vegetation-covered roofs for parking structures (4).
Launched in 2021 after receiving municipal approval, the project is ongoing and has already made significant progress, with over 10,000 perennial plants and 401 trees planted (4, 9). Upon completion, the landscape will feature 7,100 square meters of perennials, 3,000 square meters of shrubs, and an urban forest containing 2,400 trees (6, p.12).
The total investment in the project is €20,000,000 (7). In 2024, one of the completed office buildings earned a BREEAM green certification, achieving one of the highest possible scores, in collaboration with the consulting firm BuildGreen (5, 8). The landscape design was carried out by the architectural firm Beros Abdul+ (4). Before receiving approval, the project was opened for public consultation, and an independent online survey showed strong support from the community (15, 16).
The development spans 101,000 square meters, with 40,500 square meters (combined) dedicated to green spaces and "car-free" open areas (1, 2, 6, p.2). These green elements are designed to offer spaces for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction, while also contributing to environmental benefits such as air filtration, temperature regulation, rainwater drainage, and soil erosion prevention, all promoting better health for residents (1, 2, 4, 6, p.12). The landscape design includes “green islands” and vegetation-covered roofs for parking structures (4).
Launched in 2021 after receiving municipal approval, the project is ongoing and has already made significant progress, with over 10,000 perennial plants and 401 trees planted (4, 9). Upon completion, the landscape will feature 7,100 square meters of perennials, 3,000 square meters of shrubs, and an urban forest containing 2,400 trees (6, p.12).
The total investment in the project is €20,000,000 (7). In 2024, one of the completed office buildings earned a BREEAM green certification, achieving one of the highest possible scores, in collaboration with the consulting firm BuildGreen (5, 8). The landscape design was carried out by the architectural firm Beros Abdul+ (4). Before receiving approval, the project was opened for public consultation, and an independent online survey showed strong support from the community (15, 16).
Urban farm on Grobla IV and Za Murami Streets
The "Urban Farms in Gdańsk" project, launched in 2018, is an innovative educational initiative spearheaded by the Gdański Zarząd Dróg i Zieleni, Fundacja Gdańska, and dedicated volunteers. This project aims to inspire Gdańsk residents to cultivate herbs in their home gardens and balconies while emphasizing the importance of preserving urban greenery. The initiative not only promotes sustainable living but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and its natural surroundings.
As part of the project, two locations in Gdańsk—Grobla IV and Za Murami streets—feature 27 carefully designed planter boxes. Each box contains a thoughtfully curated selection of herbs, including culinary basil, lovage, olive herb, and dill, among others. These fragrant plants not only serve a practical purpose but also delight the senses and enhance the urban landscape. In total, 27 pots measuring 60x80 cm and 50 cm high were set up, with each labeled to describe its specific composition and plant varieties.
Approximately 500 plants were cultivated as part of this effort, showcasing a harmonious blend of practicality, education, and aesthetics. The herb gardens thrive from spring through late autumn, offering an ongoing visual and sensory experience. They serve as a testament to the potential of urban spaces to support greenery, community engagement, and ecological awareness.
This initiative also underscores the importance of individual contributions to urban green spaces. By growing herbs, residents not only enhance their own surroundings but also play an active role in maintaining the city's ecological balance. The "Urban Farms in Gdańsk" project demonstrates how urban agriculture can merge utility and beauty, creating vibrant spaces that benefit both people and the environment. (1-3)
As part of the project, two locations in Gdańsk—Grobla IV and Za Murami streets—feature 27 carefully designed planter boxes. Each box contains a thoughtfully curated selection of herbs, including culinary basil, lovage, olive herb, and dill, among others. These fragrant plants not only serve a practical purpose but also delight the senses and enhance the urban landscape. In total, 27 pots measuring 60x80 cm and 50 cm high were set up, with each labeled to describe its specific composition and plant varieties.
Approximately 500 plants were cultivated as part of this effort, showcasing a harmonious blend of practicality, education, and aesthetics. The herb gardens thrive from spring through late autumn, offering an ongoing visual and sensory experience. They serve as a testament to the potential of urban spaces to support greenery, community engagement, and ecological awareness.
This initiative also underscores the importance of individual contributions to urban green spaces. By growing herbs, residents not only enhance their own surroundings but also play an active role in maintaining the city's ecological balance. The "Urban Farms in Gdańsk" project demonstrates how urban agriculture can merge utility and beauty, creating vibrant spaces that benefit both people and the environment. (1-3)
Upper Detroit Riverfront Parks Habitat Restoration
The Upper Detroit Riverfront Habitat and Parks Restoration Project aims to restore and enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats along the Detroit River. This initiative seeks to rehabilitate approximately 30 acres of upland and shoreline habitats within Riverfront-Lakewood East Park, A.B. Ford Park, and Mariners Park (all located alongside the river), covering nearly one mile of the Detroit River and its shorelines.
Key outcomes include improving approximately 1,000 linear feet of existing shoreline along the Detroit River by incorporating native wetland edges and fish spawning shelves into the restoration efforts. The project also plans to enhance around 2,000 linear feet of canal shoreline and 800 linear feet along Fox Creek to create or improve habitats for fish and herpetological species. In Riverfront-Lakewood East Park, 28 acres are targeted for the establishment or enhancement of native vegetation to support birds, mammals, and pollinators. If feasible, the creation of about 7 acres of wetlands, along with shallow and deep-water habitats, is also part of the vision.
The project is guided by the City of Detroit's 2017 Parks and Recreation Improvement Plan and represents part of a broader strategy to revitalize the city’s green spaces after years of underfunding. With renewed commitment, the city has allocated nearly $12 million to enhance neighborhood parks, particularly in areas that have lacked investment over the past decade.
However, the project was temporarily halted in 2020 due to high water levels causing flooding in the adjacent neighborhood. As of 2024, it remains on hold while the City of Detroit conducts a flood mitigation study. Despite this delay, the project remains a critical step toward fostering community stewardship and creating sustainable green spaces that improve the quality of life for all Detroit residents.
(Ref. 1, 4, 5)
Key outcomes include improving approximately 1,000 linear feet of existing shoreline along the Detroit River by incorporating native wetland edges and fish spawning shelves into the restoration efforts. The project also plans to enhance around 2,000 linear feet of canal shoreline and 800 linear feet along Fox Creek to create or improve habitats for fish and herpetological species. In Riverfront-Lakewood East Park, 28 acres are targeted for the establishment or enhancement of native vegetation to support birds, mammals, and pollinators. If feasible, the creation of about 7 acres of wetlands, along with shallow and deep-water habitats, is also part of the vision.
The project is guided by the City of Detroit's 2017 Parks and Recreation Improvement Plan and represents part of a broader strategy to revitalize the city’s green spaces after years of underfunding. With renewed commitment, the city has allocated nearly $12 million to enhance neighborhood parks, particularly in areas that have lacked investment over the past decade.
However, the project was temporarily halted in 2020 due to high water levels causing flooding in the adjacent neighborhood. As of 2024, it remains on hold while the City of Detroit conducts a flood mitigation study. Despite this delay, the project remains a critical step toward fostering community stewardship and creating sustainable green spaces that improve the quality of life for all Detroit residents.
(Ref. 1, 4, 5)
