Achieved increased green space area

The Çukurova Arboretum is located 17 km from the city centre of Adana, close to the Seyhan Dam lake. Established in 1997, it aims to conserve and protect plant species and vegetation from the region and those adapted to the Mediterranean climate (Ref. 2,5). Given its location outside the city centre and its proximity to freshwater resources, the Arboretum has been praised as a refuge for relaxation and recreation away from the stress of the city (Ref. 1,3). The area has been established by the Regional Forest Directorate of Adana in cooperation with the Istanbul University, department of Forestry (Ref. 2,3). In 2011 and 2013 new infrastructure was added to the arboretum, including a nursery, main road network connection and irrigation (Ref. 2). Visitors and researchers can access over 1050 ha hosting more than 700 plant taxa in different thematic areas, such as mediterranean vegetation, rose gardens, succulent and cactus areas, medicinal and aromatic plant gardens and an aquatic plants exhibition center which is a special feature to the site (Ref. 2). For research specifically, laboratory projects have been established and nurseries continue to ensure the supply of plant material (Ref.1). Over the years, the Arboretum has been equipped with more elaborate infrastructure and exhebition sites as well as educational material available to visitors (Ref.1,2,4).

Miskolctapolca is a district of Miskolc and features a nature park (which includes a lake, Csonakazo-to) originally planted in the 1920s using the exotic trees and bushes. In 2022 the municipality decided to renovate the area under a EU funded project called "Creating a Green City in Miskolc-Tapolca". The project aimed to establish a modern urban green space focused on active recreation for various age groups, enhancing Miskolc's appeal for tourism.
The renovation included new concrete paving system and updated utilities for the lakes' promenades with a strong emphasis on accessibility ensured smooth mobility throughout the area. The renovation added informative signs detailing local attractions, historical trees, and the park's history. To enhance visitor comfort, a new accessible restroom was constructed. Renovations to the Csonakazo-to lake included removing accumulated silt and reinforcing the shoreline, alongside the addition of new street furniture, lighting, and wooden sunbathing terraces and platforms. The two bridges around the lake were renewed, and the squirrel installation, a favorite among locals, were restored. Furthermore, a square in the park, Kilátó Square was transformed with benches and drinking fountains, creating a welcoming space for relaxation.
Additionally, extensive landscaping was carried out, including the planting of approximately 100 trees, 9,000 shrubs, 18,000 perennial plants, 2,300 annuals, 350 roses, and 6,600 bulbs.
The surrounding park, which had been in disrepair for decades, was thoroughly revitalized, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. This long-overdue renovation significantly enhanced the environment. The construction was carried out by FEDRID Építőipari Kft., starting in spring 2022, and was completed in May 2023 after some delays.
(Ref.1,2,3)

The redesign of Reinprechtsdorfer Street in Vienna is a greening initiative aimed at climate adaptation by reducing local temperatures and increasing green space in a densely built urban area. Implemented within one year, the project included planting trees, adding green beds, and widening the pavement to create a more inviting environment. New seating areas, drinking stations, and water play installations were introduced, providing spaces for relaxation, cooling off during high temperatures, and fostering social interaction. Accessibility and traffic safety were enhanced by leveling the pavement with the street and adopting a one-way system for cars.
The project, realized in 2023, was part of Vienna's city-wide "Out of the Tarmac" initiative and was spearheaded by the district and city council. It originated from discussions and a participatory design process with citizens dating back to 2014. Previously, Reinprechtsdorfer Street served as a congested connection between Wienzeile and Gürtel. The plan seeks to transform it into a “climate-friendly shopping street.”
The redesign involves planting 32 new trees accompanied by flower beds, plus three standalone flower beds. Sidewalks were widened, and amenities included parking for 36 bicycles, nine benches, and seating for 46 individuals. Cooling features such as two water installations, three mist columns, and two drinking hydrants will enhance comfort.
Renovation began in spring 2023, focusing first on the 400-meter stretch between Schönbrunner Straße and Arbeitergasse. A structurally separate one-way cycle path will link Schönbrunner Straße to Bräuhausgasse, while the existing cycle lane against the one-way system remained unchanged. (Ref. 1, 2, 6)

The City of Seville has carried out four tree planting campaigns between 2020 and 2024, aiming to meet the goals of its Urban Tree Management Plan for Seville [Ref. 2-7]. The intervention as described here is based on the planting campaigns to date, but as the Management Plan spans from 2019 to 2039, more campaigns can expected in the future. The tree management plan aims to provide guidelines for the planning of trees in the city to maximise their value and minimize conflicts. As part of the process, the current state of the tree population in Seville has been evaluated. The management plan describes the ecosystem services of trees related to climate adaptation, biodiversity and public health. It also identifies challenges and conflicts that may arise due to urban trees and their management [Ref. 1]. The plan has a goal to increase the tree cover in Seville by 5 % over 20 years, which leads to the ambition of planting 5000 trees yearly and the tree planting campaigns over the last years. Between 2020 and 2024, about 1000-5000 trees have been planted each year [Ref. 1-5].

This initiative is a community-based urban greening effort targeting environmental and social co-benefits in Cartagena’s El Pozón neighbourhood. It involved the planting of 491 fruit and timber trees along a 1,500-meter linear stretch, covering nearly two hectares in the Terraplén sector of the neighbourhood. Led by the "Establecimiento Público Ambiental" (EPA), it was developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Gerencia de Espacio Público, Guardia Ambiental, SENA students, the Police, and community members (ref 1, 2). The project's primary goal was to enhance the environmental quality and aesthetics of the El Pozón neighbourhood by planting trees that provide ecological benefits, such as improving air quality, reducing temperatures, and enhancing biodiversity. Additionally, the initiative aimed to foster community engagement in environmental conservation, particularly in raising awareness about the importance of protecting and maintaining nature. The community is also expected to take on the responsibility of maintaining the planted trees, promoting a sense of ownership and sustainable stewardship (ref 1).

The "Active Recreational Green Area Development at Horváth-tető" in Miskolc is a project aimed at revitalizing a central yet underutilized urban space, commissioned by the Municipality of Miskolc in 2017. A distinctive feature of Miskolc is the Avas hill, located in the city center, which beautifully blends nature with urban elements. Despite its potential, the area had been neglected, particularly following the decline of vineyard culture and the reduced use of old wine cellars. To address this, a comprehensive development plan was initiated to rejuvenate the Avas region, with Horváth-tető at its core.
The project aimed to transform the area into an outdoor recreational hub for all age groups. The hill's historic terraces, once popular promenades, were repurposed into distinct, multifunctional spaces. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy facilities such as street workout stations, an outdoor gym, a skate park, a climbing wall, and parkour elements. For those looking to relax, picnic areas, sunbathing spots, and a retro-style terrace are available. The entire development prioritizes accessibility, providing inclusive options for visitors with mobility challenges.
The park also features significant landscaping, including the planting of trees, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, and ferns, enhancing its overall appeal. Infrastructure improvements were made, including the restoration of stairs, paths, retaining walls, and the rainwater drainage system. A special shallow basin was designed to collect rainwater and support plant roots while also serving as a playful area for dogs within the dog park.
Since its opening in 2022, the park has become a popular destination, offering a tranquil escape in a beautiful setting. It provides a wide range of recreational opportunities for people of all ages, making it a valuable addition to Miskolc’s urban landscape and connecting the historical Avas hill with modern city life.(Ref.1,2)

The Adana Central Park stretches along both riverbanks of the Seyhan River. The idea was first introduced by the former mayor of the city, Aytaç Durak, in the late 80s to address the need for accessible green spaces in the developing area (Ref, 2). Previously, citrus gardens and informal settlements were located on these riverbanks, which now host over 400.000 plants and 67 different tree species on an area of 33 ha (Ref. 2,5,6). In 1998 construction of the park began, which lasted until 2004 (Ref. 2,5). The park is appreciated by visitors for its aesthetically landscaped appearance and the many amenities for children, youth, relaxation and socializing (Ref. 7). The two sides of the river are connected via bridges or, alternatively, visitors can board the Venetian style gondolas to access either side (Ref. 5). In 2021, park lighting infrastructure has been extensively replaced to ensure accessibility and safety during day and nighttime (Ref. 3).

The Recovery of Green Area on Avenida del Lago is a group of activities aimed at restoring and preserving the ecological integrity of green space within an urban setting. This project involves multiple stakeholders, including the "Establecimiento Público Ambiental" (EPA) Cartagena, "Fundación Verde Que Te Quiero Verde", Asopopa, and local businesses such as Crepes and Wafles and Centro Comercial Caribe Plaza. The primary focus is environmental restoration, sustainable urban mobility, and public space recovery (ref 1). The project aims to rehabilitate the degraded green spaces along Lago Avenue by enhancing urban greenery, restoring mangrove ecosystems, and improving public access and mobility. It also focuses on reducing pollution, preventing informal waste disposal, and raising environmental awareness among local communities and businesses. These activities align with broader efforts to promote ecological sustainability and enhance urban resilience (ref 1, 3). Since 2020, activities have included the planting of trees, mangroves, and other native vegetation in the green spaces of the avenue. Regular clean-up campaigns have been organized to remove solid waste, and community education programs have been conducted to promote environmental stewardship (ref 2). Previously, Lago Avenue was an area plagued by pollution and homelessness, and with the project, the intention is to gradually transform the area into a wooded area or productive park (ref 2).

The green belt regeneration project along the Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki aims to revitalize the neglected green spaces surrounding these historic fortifications, which span 4 kilometers and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for their remarkable Byzantine architecture. The walls are located in Thessaloniki’s densely populated Upper Town, a factor that contributed to their environmental degradation. As such, the project focuses on restoring the degraded space surrounding the walls, improving the urban microclimate, and strengthening urban resilience while maintaining the area’s traditional character. By integrating heritage conservation with sustainable green infrastructure, the initiative seeks to provide both environmental and social benefits to the local community. Proposed by the Municipality of Thessaloniki and approved by the Greek government as part of a program that focuses on Central Macedonia, the project envisions a revitalized green zone along the walls, with vegetation and different types of trees being planted. However, some local families have expressed concerns, as the project involved the demolition of certain homes in the officially designated green belt area. (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 14).

The Jardim do Caracol da Penha project transformed a vacant urban area into a community garden and recreational space in Lisbon. Initially planned as a parking lot, the project was reimagined by local residents, led by Rita Vieira Cruz, and submitted to the Participatory Budget in 2016, garnering over 9,000 votes (Ref 2). The one-hectare garden connects the Arroios and Penha de França parishes and features leisure areas, an amphitheatre, playgrounds, and a community garden (Ref 4). Its design was shaped by citizen input, emphasizing sustainability and accessibility, with plans to support activities such as outdoor cinema and community gatherings (Ref 2).