Eagle Reef Project
The Eagle Reef Project was launched to restore the health of Mobile Bay in response to habitat loss and declining fish populations due to the degradation of oyster and seagrass beds [REF 1, REF 6]. Originally planned in 2022 as an Eagle Scout service project by John Shell of Boy Scout Troop 147, the project has grown into a regional environmental initiative supported by Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP), the University of South Alabama’s Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences, and municipalities such as the City of Fairhope [REF 3, REF 4, REF 7].
The project deploys preassembled mini reefs—constructed from plastic and PVC—beneath docks and piers across Mobile and Baldwin counties. These reefs, once colonised by filter feeders like oysters and barnacles, can filter up to 20,000 gallons of water daily and serve as habitats for fish, shrimp, and crabs [REF 1, REF 4]. The initiative aims to improve water quality, sequester nutrients, reduce algae, and restore marine biodiversity [REF 1, REF 6].
The Eagle Reef Project addresses critical coastal hazards, including water pollution, fish habitat loss, and the legacy of environmental disasters such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill [REF 4]. It combines scientific monitoring, civic engagement, and scalable design to enhance the region’s climate resilience and ecological health [REF 1, REF 6, REF 7].
The project deploys preassembled mini reefs—constructed from plastic and PVC—beneath docks and piers across Mobile and Baldwin counties. These reefs, once colonised by filter feeders like oysters and barnacles, can filter up to 20,000 gallons of water daily and serve as habitats for fish, shrimp, and crabs [REF 1, REF 4]. The initiative aims to improve water quality, sequester nutrients, reduce algae, and restore marine biodiversity [REF 1, REF 6].
The Eagle Reef Project addresses critical coastal hazards, including water pollution, fish habitat loss, and the legacy of environmental disasters such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill [REF 4]. It combines scientific monitoring, civic engagement, and scalable design to enhance the region’s climate resilience and ecological health [REF 1, REF 6, REF 7].
Murphy High School Farm to Table
Launched in 2022, the Murphy High School Farm-to-Table Program in Mobile is an initiative aimed at addressing urban food deserts and promoting community health through education and sustainable farming practices [Ref 1; Ref 4]. Funded by Spire as part of its “Connected Through Cooking” initiative, the program transforms 28 acres of school grounds into a teaching farm where students learn to grow and cook nutritious food [Ref 1; Ref 6].
The project integrates science, math, and culinary arts into hands-on learning, engaging students in planning, planting, and harvesting crops, as well as developing healthy recipes [Ref 1; Ref 4]. Activities include constructing greenhouses, building raised beds, and installing irrigation systems—33 raised beds and an 800 sq. ft. greenhouse were completed in the first year [Ref 1; Ref 2]. The program also supports nearby food-insecure neighbourhoods by distributing produce and recipe tips, helping address poor access to fresh food in Mobile [Ref 3; Ref 4]. Younger students from local schools are included through farm-based learning, broadening the program’s educational reach [Ref 1; Ref 5].
Key actors include Murphy educators, Spire staff, and community partners such as Jones Valley Teaching Farm and Auburn University [Ref 4]. Outcomes include improved STEM education, increased food literacy, and stronger community ties through urban agriculture [Ref 1; Ref 4].
The project integrates science, math, and culinary arts into hands-on learning, engaging students in planning, planting, and harvesting crops, as well as developing healthy recipes [Ref 1; Ref 4]. Activities include constructing greenhouses, building raised beds, and installing irrigation systems—33 raised beds and an 800 sq. ft. greenhouse were completed in the first year [Ref 1; Ref 2]. The program also supports nearby food-insecure neighbourhoods by distributing produce and recipe tips, helping address poor access to fresh food in Mobile [Ref 3; Ref 4]. Younger students from local schools are included through farm-based learning, broadening the program’s educational reach [Ref 1; Ref 5].
Key actors include Murphy educators, Spire staff, and community partners such as Jones Valley Teaching Farm and Auburn University [Ref 4]. Outcomes include improved STEM education, increased food literacy, and stronger community ties through urban agriculture [Ref 1; Ref 4].
Ecological & Citizen Restoration Project in Carbet
The Ecological & Citizen Restoration Project in Carbet, led by ASSOMER, supports the city in sustainably developing its coastline. This coastal area serves multiple purposes—recreational, economic, and subsistence—making it essential to include the voices of its key user communities: fishermen, restaurateurs, residents, and tourists.
However, both these uses and critical spawning habitats are increasingly threatened by coastal erosion, which is worsened by urbanization. Beyond reducing nesting areas, urban expansion also creates light pollution, which disrupts nesting females and hatchlings that rely on moonlight reflections to navigate.
This project was selected during the inaugural Biodiversity Lottery, a French government initiative inspired by the Heritage Lotto (established in 2018). The funds will be dedicated to protecting Carbet’s turtle population. Key efforts include reforesting the beach to combat erosion and creating new nesting spaces for turtles.
By restoring vegetation in a way that addresses multiple environmental challenges, this initiative aims to raise public awareness and ensure long-term coastal preservation. (1,2)
However, both these uses and critical spawning habitats are increasingly threatened by coastal erosion, which is worsened by urbanization. Beyond reducing nesting areas, urban expansion also creates light pollution, which disrupts nesting females and hatchlings that rely on moonlight reflections to navigate.
This project was selected during the inaugural Biodiversity Lottery, a French government initiative inspired by the Heritage Lotto (established in 2018). The funds will be dedicated to protecting Carbet’s turtle population. Key efforts include reforesting the beach to combat erosion and creating new nesting spaces for turtles.
By restoring vegetation in a way that addresses multiple environmental challenges, this initiative aims to raise public awareness and ensure long-term coastal preservation. (1,2)
Restoration and Maintenance of Antilles Ponds
In 2012, PRZHT (Pôles Relais Zones Humides Tropicales) initiated Project REMA, an effort dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of ponds in the Antilles, with backing from the IUCN. Wetland ecosystems in Martinique and the Caribbean had long been overlooked. However, interest in these habitats grew after PRZHT introduced an interactive virtual tour of Antilles ponds in 2019. Project REMA emerged in response to local concerns about the lack of technical resources for pond restoration in the French West Indies. While similar initiatives had been undertaken in France, there was no specific guide tailored to this region. Though originally conceived in 2012, the project remained dormant for several years before fully launching in 2019. Between 2019 and 2021, restoration experiments were conducted on 12 ponds across Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Saint-Martin, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive technical manual.
Building on this success, REMA II was introduced in January 2024 with a three-year scope. This new phase will focus on restoring and maintaining 80 ponds, both public and private, in Martinique and Guadeloupe. Additionally, it will address the management of invasive species and incorporate eDNA analysis to enhance conservation efforts. These small wetlands play a fundamental role in flood regulation, water storage, pollutant filtration, erosion control, and carbon absorption. They also provide refuges for biodiversity and contribute to the resilience of territories in the face of climate change.
(1, 2, 3)
Building on this success, REMA II was introduced in January 2024 with a three-year scope. This new phase will focus on restoring and maintaining 80 ponds, both public and private, in Martinique and Guadeloupe. Additionally, it will address the management of invasive species and incorporate eDNA analysis to enhance conservation efforts. These small wetlands play a fundamental role in flood regulation, water storage, pollutant filtration, erosion control, and carbon absorption. They also provide refuges for biodiversity and contribute to the resilience of territories in the face of climate change.
(1, 2, 3)
The Red Cross and the Antilles et d'Ailleurs Garden
The socio-economic and gendered challenges faced by female migrants in Martinique were highlighted by the NGO D’Antilles et D’Ailleurs. The organization emphasized that Martinique continues to suffer the lasting effects of colonial and patriarchal violence, particularly affecting migrant women from Venezuela, Dominica, and Haiti. Many of these women find themselves in vulnerable situations, often engaged in sex work.
To address these issues, D’Antilles et D’Ailleurs and the Red Cross of Martinique developed support services to help women transition out of prostitution, assisting with legal and bureaucratic processes. One notable initiative was the creation of a therapeutic garden, part of a broader European "Green Health" project supported by Erasmus Plus.
The garden, designed to resemble a "Creole Garden," serves as a nature-based solution (NBS), providing a safe and culturally familiar space for healing, community-building, and skill development. Women can engage in gardening, participate in workshops, and learn practical skills such as making natural products, budgeting, and learning French. Additionally, the garden offers a space for emotional recovery, helping women navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives while waiting for bureaucratic and legal decisions.(1, 2, 3)
To address these issues, D’Antilles et D’Ailleurs and the Red Cross of Martinique developed support services to help women transition out of prostitution, assisting with legal and bureaucratic processes. One notable initiative was the creation of a therapeutic garden, part of a broader European "Green Health" project supported by Erasmus Plus.
The garden, designed to resemble a "Creole Garden," serves as a nature-based solution (NBS), providing a safe and culturally familiar space for healing, community-building, and skill development. Women can engage in gardening, participate in workshops, and learn practical skills such as making natural products, budgeting, and learning French. Additionally, the garden offers a space for emotional recovery, helping women navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives while waiting for bureaucratic and legal decisions.(1, 2, 3)
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)
River Dodder Rainscapes
Pollution from roadways is often carried by rainwater into gullies, which then direct this runoff to the nearest watercourse, ultimately polluting local rivers and degrading water quality (1). To address this issue, Dublin City Council is exploring potential green infrastructure solutions to reduce roadway pollution in rivers, focusing on nine pilot sites within the Dodder catchment area (1). Green infrastructure has the advantage of treating pollutants before they enter rivers or watercourses, which can significantly improve water quality in the area (1).
In addition to enhancing water quality, green infrastructure helps manage flood risks by slowing water flow to rivers, which can lessen the frequency and severity of flood events (1). These green spaces also foster biodiversity, creating more pleasant and ecologically supportive environments for the community (1). As an added benefit, green infrastructure serves as an important climate change adaptation strategy (1).
Upon completion of these pilots, Dublin City Council plans to expand successful methods to other locations across the city and potentially further afield (1). The project will involve creating new green spaces, enhancing existing ones, and transforming certain hard surfaces, all of which will contribute to protecting the Dodder and Santry rivers. By treating roadway runoff before it reaches the rivers, the initiative will also offer valuable benefits to the local community (2).
The proposed changes will be designed to support health and well-being, provide informal play areas, attract desirable wildlife, reduce flood risks, and help urban areas adapt to the impacts of climate change (2). The Council also plans to monitor the performance of these green infrastructure measures to assess their effectiveness in filtering pollutants from roadway runoff (1).
In addition to enhancing water quality, green infrastructure helps manage flood risks by slowing water flow to rivers, which can lessen the frequency and severity of flood events (1). These green spaces also foster biodiversity, creating more pleasant and ecologically supportive environments for the community (1). As an added benefit, green infrastructure serves as an important climate change adaptation strategy (1).
Upon completion of these pilots, Dublin City Council plans to expand successful methods to other locations across the city and potentially further afield (1). The project will involve creating new green spaces, enhancing existing ones, and transforming certain hard surfaces, all of which will contribute to protecting the Dodder and Santry rivers. By treating roadway runoff before it reaches the rivers, the initiative will also offer valuable benefits to the local community (2).
The proposed changes will be designed to support health and well-being, provide informal play areas, attract desirable wildlife, reduce flood risks, and help urban areas adapt to the impacts of climate change (2). The Council also plans to monitor the performance of these green infrastructure measures to assess their effectiveness in filtering pollutants from roadway runoff (1).
Renatura pilot: Fast Forests for Lisbon
The Mediterranean climate in Lisbon, already characterised by low precipitation, has been further exacerbated by climate change. The city faces challenges related to biodiversity loss, urban loneliness, and climate anxiety (1). To address these issues, Lisbon's urban development plans have prioritised the re-naturalisation of urban spaces and the integration of ecological networks. Urban nature is now a central component of the city's Master Plan (2012) and other strategic agendas (1).
It is being developed by the LISGREEN project, which aims to enhance ecological connectivity and mitigate the effects of urban heat islands in Lisbon. By establishing nature-based solutions, it aims to restore forests within the city (1, 2, 3). This project encompasses different strategies, such as the RENATURA pilot project. It is a collaboration with the NGO URBEM and involves active public participation in tree planting and forest maintenance. This initiative aims to educate the community about nature, promote well-being, and mitigate extreme climate events (1), through the creation of urban forests.
The main strategy is to create fast forests using the Miyawaki method, which involves dense planting of native trees, removal of invasive plants, and intensive initial care. This approach accelerates the growth of natural forests within a short period, using native species and reducing the need for watering (1)
The first fast forest was developed in Parque Casal Vistoso within Bela Vista Park, within the Eastern Green Corridor of Lisbon. The park is being underutilised because of the lack of shade (1). Thus, this initiative encouraged volunteers to participate in tree planting and forest maintenance activities (3). The NbS intervention began with a 300m² experimental plot near the Vale da Montanha pedestrian bridge and has since expanded to a new 1,500m² plot on the opposite side of the bridge (2). Over 500 volunteers joined the effort, planting more than 3,800 trees (1)
It is being developed by the LISGREEN project, which aims to enhance ecological connectivity and mitigate the effects of urban heat islands in Lisbon. By establishing nature-based solutions, it aims to restore forests within the city (1, 2, 3). This project encompasses different strategies, such as the RENATURA pilot project. It is a collaboration with the NGO URBEM and involves active public participation in tree planting and forest maintenance. This initiative aims to educate the community about nature, promote well-being, and mitigate extreme climate events (1), through the creation of urban forests.
The main strategy is to create fast forests using the Miyawaki method, which involves dense planting of native trees, removal of invasive plants, and intensive initial care. This approach accelerates the growth of natural forests within a short period, using native species and reducing the need for watering (1)
The first fast forest was developed in Parque Casal Vistoso within Bela Vista Park, within the Eastern Green Corridor of Lisbon. The park is being underutilised because of the lack of shade (1). Thus, this initiative encouraged volunteers to participate in tree planting and forest maintenance activities (3). The NbS intervention began with a 300m² experimental plot near the Vale da Montanha pedestrian bridge and has since expanded to a new 1,500m² plot on the opposite side of the bridge (2). Over 500 volunteers joined the effort, planting more than 3,800 trees (1)
Gothatuwa Wetland Park
Sri Lanka, particularly its low-lying coastal areas, faces recurring flooding challenges exacerbated by climate change, coastal erosion, and urbanization (1). Wetlands have emerged as crucial ecosystems in mitigating these risks, acting as natural sponges during heavy rainfall and releasing water gradually as flood levels subside (1). Beyond flood control, wetlands play a vital role in environmental quality. Their biodiversity helps filter pollutants and chemicals from the air and water, creating a healthier environment for both humans and wildlife (1). In 2018, Colombo was designated as a Global Wetland City under the Ramsar Convention, becoming the first and only capital city to receive this recognition (1). Recognizing the significance of wetlands as nature-based solutions, international institutions have prioritized their conservation through financing programs (1), and the city has developed projects to raise awareness and involve its citizens in their protection (1). These efforts have resulted in the creation of four wetland parks in the city, that comparing to a wetland, the wetland parks have more human intervention. Thus, they are focused on different topics and activities (2): Diyasaru Park, Beddagana Wetland Park (managed by the Urban Development Authority), Kotte Rampart Wetland Park (managed by the Urban Development Authority), and the Gothatuwa Wetland Park (managed by the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation) (2). Gothatuwa Park is the newest wetland park and it is located in the flood-prone Gothatuwa neighbourhood (1). Inaugurated in 2024, It has a recreational focus, with trails for cyclists and hikers, and together with the other wetland complex, this park is designed to make the wetlands a cornerstone of local people's lives (1). Currently, environmental education activities are carried out in the park, focusing on managing aquatic invasive plants, tree planting and solid waste collection (3).
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)
