Restoration of the Coastal Lagoon of El Laguito
The "Recuperación del Laguito" project aims to restore El Laguito, a coastal water body in Cartagena, Colombia, severely affected by sedimentation that blocks natural water exchange with the Caribbean Sea. This blockage has led to stagnant, low-oxygen water, degrading water quality and aquatic ecosystems (ref 1). The project seeks to restore El Laguito’s environmental and social functions by reestablishing seawater flow, reducing sediment impact, improving water quality, and reviving the ecosystem. Additionally, it aims to provide data to guide long-term solutions for sustainably managing this community resource (ref 1).
The project is a response to recurring ecological crises, such as frequent fish die-offs due to low oxygen levels. Local residents initially took matters into their own hands, manually attempting to reopen the channel. The formal intervention started following a 2019 directive from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, outlining a phased strategy: short-term installation of an axial pump for water exchange, medium-term studies for a permanent fix, and long-term construction plans (ref 3). Currently, the project involves using heavy machinery to clear sediment and allow seawater inflow, supported by the Gobernación de Bolívar, Cardique, and the Cartagena Mayor's Office. This phase serves as a transitional step towards a more sustainable, permanent solution (ref 2). The project’s impacts focus on ecological restoration. Short-term benefits include better oxygenation, reduced harmful algal blooms, and revived marine life. Long-term goals encompass sustainable water management, ecosystem stabilization, tourism enhancement, and the development of recreational and sports facilities in harmony with environmental conservation (ref 4).
The project is a response to recurring ecological crises, such as frequent fish die-offs due to low oxygen levels. Local residents initially took matters into their own hands, manually attempting to reopen the channel. The formal intervention started following a 2019 directive from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, outlining a phased strategy: short-term installation of an axial pump for water exchange, medium-term studies for a permanent fix, and long-term construction plans (ref 3). Currently, the project involves using heavy machinery to clear sediment and allow seawater inflow, supported by the Gobernación de Bolívar, Cardique, and the Cartagena Mayor's Office. This phase serves as a transitional step towards a more sustainable, permanent solution (ref 2). The project’s impacts focus on ecological restoration. Short-term benefits include better oxygenation, reduced harmful algal blooms, and revived marine life. Long-term goals encompass sustainable water management, ecosystem stabilization, tourism enhancement, and the development of recreational and sports facilities in harmony with environmental conservation (ref 4).
Dodder Valley Park Wetlands
Two new wetlands were established in Dodder Valley Park as part of the Dublin Urban Rivers Life Project (DURL). This project aimed to create integrated constructed wetlands (ICWs) at strategic locations in South Dublin County to purify wastewater and storm-water before it discharged into rivers.
The ICWs consisted of a series of cells resembling shallow ponds, typically 200 to 300 mm deep. Heavily planted with specific vegetation, these cells treated water by removing nutrients and harmful impurities, resulting in cleaner, purer water being discharged. The water flowing into the wetlands came from wastewater of misconnected appliances and storm-water pipes located under public roads, which collected rainwater from roads, footpaths, and the roofs and patios of houses.
These wetlands also provided important benefits, including flood alleviation, bioretention of particulates and nutrients, improved habitat conditions, and enhanced biodiversity. The project aimed to promote the relationship between green infrastructure and public well-being, creating a complex biological system that supports a diverse range of plants, animals, microorganisms, and hopefully attracts frogs, newts, and birds.
To increase native biodiversity, the wetlands were designed with pollinator-friendly plants and trees, making them visually appealing for park users and the public. A Wetland Planting Day took place on September 9, 2022, with over 40 participants, including residents and representatives from local organizations. This phase of the project fulfilled not only the objectives of the LIFE project but also those of the River Basin Masin Management Plan 2022–2027, the Water Framework Directive, the Climate Change Action Plan, the Floods Directive. (1, 2, 5)
The ICWs consisted of a series of cells resembling shallow ponds, typically 200 to 300 mm deep. Heavily planted with specific vegetation, these cells treated water by removing nutrients and harmful impurities, resulting in cleaner, purer water being discharged. The water flowing into the wetlands came from wastewater of misconnected appliances and storm-water pipes located under public roads, which collected rainwater from roads, footpaths, and the roofs and patios of houses.
These wetlands also provided important benefits, including flood alleviation, bioretention of particulates and nutrients, improved habitat conditions, and enhanced biodiversity. The project aimed to promote the relationship between green infrastructure and public well-being, creating a complex biological system that supports a diverse range of plants, animals, microorganisms, and hopefully attracts frogs, newts, and birds.
To increase native biodiversity, the wetlands were designed with pollinator-friendly plants and trees, making them visually appealing for park users and the public. A Wetland Planting Day took place on September 9, 2022, with over 40 participants, including residents and representatives from local organizations. This phase of the project fulfilled not only the objectives of the LIFE project but also those of the River Basin Masin Management Plan 2022–2027, the Water Framework Directive, the Climate Change Action Plan, the Floods Directive. (1, 2, 5)
Corridor of Cartagena - Barranquilla
The Cartagena-Barranquilla Road Corridor project, led by the National Infrastructure Agency (Agencia Nacional de Infraestructura (ANI)), covers 146.7 km to enhance connectivity between Cartagena and Barranquilla (ref 2). While primarily a transportation initiative, the project stands out for its focus on environmental conservation and community development. A major goal is the restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity protection. To this end, over 40,000 mangrove seedlings have been planted in the 34.13-hectare Ciénaga de la Virgen, a vital coastal wetland in Cartagena. These mangroves play a crucial role in restoring habitats, capturing carbon, and acting as natural flood barriers, thereby safeguarding nearby communities (ref 1,4,6). The project also tackles hazards like wildlife-vehicle collisions and habitat fragmentation. Seven wildlife crossings have been built to facilitate the safe movement of species, including the endangered Blue Crab (Cardisoma guanhumi) in the Ciénaga de Mallorquín. These crossings are essential for preserving local wildlife (ref 1,7).
In terms of socio-economic impact, the project has created over 9,000 jobs and established six bioclimatic nurseries, which provide sustainable livelihoods for communities in La Boquilla, Villa Gloria, Tierra Baja, and Puerto Rey. These nurseries support mangrove restoration and offer local people opportunities to participate in planting, monitoring, and maintenance activities. This approach fosters a circular economy, empowering community members, both men and women, to engage in sustainable economic practices (ref 1,2,6).
Overall, the Cartagena-Barranquilla Road Corridor is more than a transport project; it acts as a green corridor with a comprehensive approach that combines environmental conservation, hazard mitigation, and socio-economic development.
In terms of socio-economic impact, the project has created over 9,000 jobs and established six bioclimatic nurseries, which provide sustainable livelihoods for communities in La Boquilla, Villa Gloria, Tierra Baja, and Puerto Rey. These nurseries support mangrove restoration and offer local people opportunities to participate in planting, monitoring, and maintenance activities. This approach fosters a circular economy, empowering community members, both men and women, to engage in sustainable economic practices (ref 1,2,6).
Overall, the Cartagena-Barranquilla Road Corridor is more than a transport project; it acts as a green corridor with a comprehensive approach that combines environmental conservation, hazard mitigation, and socio-economic development.
The Green Wall of Tomesti
The Green Wall of Tomesti was an initiative launched by the commune of Tomesti to combat air pollution from the nearby city of Iasi, which often drifted into the area (1, 2). The municipality decided to implement this solution after consulting specialists on how to address pollution from the main urban area. It was also integrated into the objectives of their 2014 General Urbanistic Plan, which aimed to transform Tomesti into a "modern, clean, and ecological area" (1, 2, 5). In addition to mitigating air pollution, the forest wall was expected to help lower local air temperatures (1).
The municipality purchased seedlings and planted the trees at the end of 2019, near the D.D. Patranascu school (1-3). While the overall goal was to protect the entire commune and improve the health of Tomesti's residents, particular attention was given to safeguarding the school closest to Iasi (1, 2). Before planting, the organizers called for volunteers to help with the plantation (3). In total, approximately 1,500 trees were planted (linden, acacia, oak and willow), with a space of 1,5 m between each other (2).
The action also follows on a 20-year national plan to increase forest walls to improve the quality of the air in the country (6).
The municipality purchased seedlings and planted the trees at the end of 2019, near the D.D. Patranascu school (1-3). While the overall goal was to protect the entire commune and improve the health of Tomesti's residents, particular attention was given to safeguarding the school closest to Iasi (1, 2). Before planting, the organizers called for volunteers to help with the plantation (3). In total, approximately 1,500 trees were planted (linden, acacia, oak and willow), with a space of 1,5 m between each other (2).
The action also follows on a 20-year national plan to increase forest walls to improve the quality of the air in the country (6).
Blue Pearls for Berlin
Berlin has faced severe water shortages in recent years, with ponds, small lakes, and pools suffering significantly. Many have dried out or disappeared, causing habitats for countless animals and plants to vanish. Urbanization exacerbates the issue, as more areas become sealed, preventing rainwater from replenishing soil and water bodies. Recognizing the urgency, Berlin introduced the Eco-Account, a strategic reserve of areas and initiatives to mitigate the effects of urban development on nature and landscapes. Central to this is the Blue Pearls for Berlin program, focusing on revitalizing small water bodies to restore biodiversity and ecological balance.
The project identified approximately 30 ponds, pools, lakes, and ditches from over 100 candidates to be transformed into "blue pearls." These revitalized areas will support local ecosystems and improve Berlin’s water cycle. The Berlin Rainwater Agency, alongside departments responsible for nature, climate protection, and water management, is spearheading the initiative in collaboration with the Berlin Nature Conservation Foundation.
Two pilot sites—the Schleipfuhl/Feldweiher water complex in Marzahn-Hellersdorf and the Lankegrabenteich in Steglitz-Zehlendorf—were prioritized for restoration in 2024. These efforts include improving water quality and creating diverse habitats for wildlife. Enhancing small water bodies not only provides a refuge for animals and plants but also contributes to climate adaptation. Restored ponds and lakes can cool surrounding areas and improve the urban microclimate by utilizing locally accumulated rainwater. Blue Pearls for Berlin, approved by the Senate in 2022, aligns with the city’s Eco-Account framework, ensuring that these restored blue spaces offset ecological damage caused by infrastructure and urban projects. The initiative offers Berliners new ways to experience nature, fostering a balance between development and environmental preservation. (Ref. 1, 2, 4, 6, 7)
The project identified approximately 30 ponds, pools, lakes, and ditches from over 100 candidates to be transformed into "blue pearls." These revitalized areas will support local ecosystems and improve Berlin’s water cycle. The Berlin Rainwater Agency, alongside departments responsible for nature, climate protection, and water management, is spearheading the initiative in collaboration with the Berlin Nature Conservation Foundation.
Two pilot sites—the Schleipfuhl/Feldweiher water complex in Marzahn-Hellersdorf and the Lankegrabenteich in Steglitz-Zehlendorf—were prioritized for restoration in 2024. These efforts include improving water quality and creating diverse habitats for wildlife. Enhancing small water bodies not only provides a refuge for animals and plants but also contributes to climate adaptation. Restored ponds and lakes can cool surrounding areas and improve the urban microclimate by utilizing locally accumulated rainwater. Blue Pearls for Berlin, approved by the Senate in 2022, aligns with the city’s Eco-Account framework, ensuring that these restored blue spaces offset ecological damage caused by infrastructure and urban projects. The initiative offers Berliners new ways to experience nature, fostering a balance between development and environmental preservation. (Ref. 1, 2, 4, 6, 7)
Green in School Gardens - Cagliari
In 2023, the municipality of Cagliari initiated a project to transform 50 school gardens into vibrant, multifunctional outdoor spaces that enhance education and recreation. Co-funded under an EU program, this initiative aims to create environments where students can learn and play outdoors, taking advantage of the city’s favorable climate. The gardens are being upgraded with new features, such as trees, educational vegetable plots, diverse plant species, playground equipment, and furniture, to provide versatile spaces for learning, sports, and play.
Automated irrigation systems are being installed in each garden, conserving water by adjusting based on soil humidity and detecting leaks. This technological upgrade ensures efficient maintenance of the green spaces.
Overall, the project seeks to enrich the educational experience by integrating nature into daily school life. It aims to promote students' physical and psychological well-being through more opportunities for outdoor learning and activities, fostering a connection with nature, and improving the overall quality of the school environment (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5).
Automated irrigation systems are being installed in each garden, conserving water by adjusting based on soil humidity and detecting leaks. This technological upgrade ensures efficient maintenance of the green spaces.
Overall, the project seeks to enrich the educational experience by integrating nature into daily school life. It aims to promote students' physical and psychological well-being through more opportunities for outdoor learning and activities, fostering a connection with nature, and improving the overall quality of the school environment (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5).
Recovery initiatives for the Ciénaga de las Quintas
The Ciénaga de las Quintas is a coastal wetland located alongside one of Cartagena’s main roads, adjacent to the public market square and situated between the Jiménez and Bazurto Bridges. It is home to two predominant mangrove species (Ref 1). The wetland currently faces pollution problems because it is used for the disposal of solid waste, such as plastics and construction materials, and it receives wastewater and household garbage from nearby residences. Las Quintas is also the main waste disposal area for the Bazurto market, which handles 43,430 tons of food products each month (ref 3). The recovery initiatives for the Ciénaga de las Quintas are led by the Environmental Public Establishment of Cartagena (EPA Cartagena) in collaboration with other public institutions, the private sector, and citizens, with the main goal of achieving the ecological restoration of the city's water bodies and to maintain and preserve our mangrove ecosystems (ref 2). Since 2020, key implementation activities have included the removal of solid waste, planting of native tree species, dismantling of informal structures within the mangrove zone, and the rehabilitation of areas previously occupied by debris (Refs 4, 5).
Requalification of Buoncammino Avenue
The requalification project for Viale Buoncammino in Cagliari aims to revitalize the historic promenade while preserving its original layout and functions. Launched in September 2022 and completed in 2023, the project focused on enhancing the area’s aesthetic and environmental appeal. Key improvements include expanding green spaces by adding 560 new square meters, enhancing vegetation, and reducing surface runoff. This involves increasing permeable surfaces around existing trees to boost natural vegetation, improve bioclimatic comfort, and manage runoff during heavy rains.
The project also includes reconstructing pavements, optimizing seating areas, and repositioning urban furniture for better functionality and aesthetics. A modern LED lighting system will be installed to reduce energy consumption and operational costs, supporting the project's sustainability goals. The area is included between via Anfiteatro, viale Buoncammino and viale Giussani and also includes the squares F.Pilia and Marongiu-Pernis. The project aims to restore Viale Buoncammino as a dynamic social and cultural hub in Cagliari, appealing to both residents and visitors. (Refs. 1, 2, 3 & 4).
The project also includes reconstructing pavements, optimizing seating areas, and repositioning urban furniture for better functionality and aesthetics. A modern LED lighting system will be installed to reduce energy consumption and operational costs, supporting the project's sustainability goals. The area is included between via Anfiteatro, viale Buoncammino and viale Giussani and also includes the squares F.Pilia and Marongiu-Pernis. The project aims to restore Viale Buoncammino as a dynamic social and cultural hub in Cagliari, appealing to both residents and visitors. (Refs. 1, 2, 3 & 4).
Requalification of Viale Trieste
In 2022, the municipality of Cagliari launched a project to revitalize Viale Trieste, one of its avenues, by redesigning its roads and pedestrian areas and adding new green spaces. The project covers approximately 1,300 meters and 36,500 square meters, and will be completed in two phases, each focusing on different sections of the avenue. With a budget of 12 million euros, funded by municipal, national, and EU resources, the aim is to transform Viale Trieste into a vibrant, accessible, and attractive space for everyone.
The renewal will introduce new green spaces and improved drainage systems to enhance soil permeability. As part of this, some trees will be relocated to other areas of the city to address root issues and improve survival rates. Dead or unstable ficus trees will be removed, while 79 new trees will be planted. Older ficus trees will be relocated to city parks, with younger ones planted along the avenue to prevent pavement damage and promote sustainability. The project also includes upgrading water supply and drainage systems to manage stormwater more effectively, reducing the risk of flooding and improving sustainability. Public lighting will be modernized, with new street lamps and dedicated lighting for pedestrian and bicycle paths to make the area safer and more welcoming after dark.
However, the community has expressed concerns about the project, citing safety issues, delays, disruptions, and poor communication from officials. There is also significant opposition to replacing the historic ficus trees, valued for their environmental and historical significance, with Chinese pear trees and younger ficus (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 16).
The renewal will introduce new green spaces and improved drainage systems to enhance soil permeability. As part of this, some trees will be relocated to other areas of the city to address root issues and improve survival rates. Dead or unstable ficus trees will be removed, while 79 new trees will be planted. Older ficus trees will be relocated to city parks, with younger ones planted along the avenue to prevent pavement damage and promote sustainability. The project also includes upgrading water supply and drainage systems to manage stormwater more effectively, reducing the risk of flooding and improving sustainability. Public lighting will be modernized, with new street lamps and dedicated lighting for pedestrian and bicycle paths to make the area safer and more welcoming after dark.
However, the community has expressed concerns about the project, citing safety issues, delays, disruptions, and poor communication from officials. There is also significant opposition to replacing the historic ficus trees, valued for their environmental and historical significance, with Chinese pear trees and younger ficus (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 16).
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).
