Bring Nature Home
Bring Nature Home project, partly financed by and implemented under the New European Bauhaus programme by the organisation "UrbanizeHub", is an initiative focused on encouraging and helping the city of Iasi to become more green while strengthening urban communities (1 & 3). More concretely the project sought to transform an unused space in a residential area of a neighborhood in Iasi through a "biophilic design", with the involvement of the local community (1 - 5). The space was then transformed into a green area that would help the residents reconnect with nature (1 & 4). The implementation later helped develop a handbook that could be used to reproduce the methods of the initiative in other urban settings (4 & 5).
Involving the local community, including children from the nearby daycare, the project conducted five workshops. These workshops focused on educational activities, improving the connection with urban nature, and ultimately creating an urban garden which included perennial plants, and insect and bird houses (5, pp. 53 to 58).
Beyond community engagement and inter-generational dialogue, the project highlighted the importance of natural elements and biodiversity in urban settings. It also facilitated knowledge exchange among public institutions, NGOs, and private companies. With additional funding from IULIUS and municipal approval, the initiative successfully transformed the unused space into a thriving green area (4 & 5, p. 67 & 71).
Involving the local community, including children from the nearby daycare, the project conducted five workshops. These workshops focused on educational activities, improving the connection with urban nature, and ultimately creating an urban garden which included perennial plants, and insect and bird houses (5, pp. 53 to 58).
Beyond community engagement and inter-generational dialogue, the project highlighted the importance of natural elements and biodiversity in urban settings. It also facilitated knowledge exchange among public institutions, NGOs, and private companies. With additional funding from IULIUS and municipal approval, the initiative successfully transformed the unused space into a thriving green area (4 & 5, p. 67 & 71).
Great bay mangrove action plan
In the bay of Fort-de-France, mangroves cover nearly 1,300 hectares, representing about 70% of the total mangrove area in Martinique. This plant formation, characteristic of tropical marine environments, is essential for the ecological balance of the bay. Mangroves act as filters, purifying marine and river waters, protecting the coastline against erosion, and providing habitat for various marine flora and fauna.
However, this fragile ecosystem is threatened by wave-induced erosion, urbanization, the spread of invasive species, and pollution. In response to these challenges, the French Coastal Protection Agency (Conservatoire de l'espace littoral et des rivages lacustres, CELRL) and its partners have launched an initiative to restore several mangrove areas as part of the “Contrat de la Grande Baie de Martinique" which is a collaborative initiative aimed at the sustainable management and restoration of the coastal and marine environment of the Greater Bay of Martinique. This contract typically involves partnerships between various stakeholders, including government agencies, local municipalities, environmental organizations, and community groups. The project identified several sites totaling 3.81 hectares in the Greater Bay area that require reclamation.
The project aims to restore mangrove populations by creating favorable conditions through actions such as clearing invasive species and trash, followed by replanting with white, black, or red mangrove seedlings, depending on the environmental characteristics of each site. Additionally, the initiative seeks to engage the public and youth through volunteering days and awareness campaigns (Refs 1-9).
However, this fragile ecosystem is threatened by wave-induced erosion, urbanization, the spread of invasive species, and pollution. In response to these challenges, the French Coastal Protection Agency (Conservatoire de l'espace littoral et des rivages lacustres, CELRL) and its partners have launched an initiative to restore several mangrove areas as part of the “Contrat de la Grande Baie de Martinique" which is a collaborative initiative aimed at the sustainable management and restoration of the coastal and marine environment of the Greater Bay of Martinique. This contract typically involves partnerships between various stakeholders, including government agencies, local municipalities, environmental organizations, and community groups. The project identified several sites totaling 3.81 hectares in the Greater Bay area that require reclamation.
The project aims to restore mangrove populations by creating favorable conditions through actions such as clearing invasive species and trash, followed by replanting with white, black, or red mangrove seedlings, depending on the environmental characteristics of each site. Additionally, the initiative seeks to engage the public and youth through volunteering days and awareness campaigns (Refs 1-9).
Productive Forest’ reforestation project
The rate of deforestation in the Brazilian Legal Amazon in 2023 was consolidated at 9,064 km2. Initiatives that promote forest restoration in this biome are emerging to overcome this scenario. One such initiative is Floresta Productiva which aims to reforest more than 200 hectares of degraded land in the southwest of the Brazilian Amazon, known as the ‘arc of deforestation’ (1). Led by the Instituto Socioambiental in partnership with the NGO Rioterra, it focuses on creating and disseminating native forest restoration models that combine ecosystem recovery with income generation for rural producers in Porto Velho (2). By fully integrating local communities, the project promotes traditional agroforestry practices (muvuca) and trains communities to maintain the planted land. This not only restores the forest but also provides economic benefits through the cultivation of timber, fruit trees and other species (2), strengthening sustainable agriculture, breaking the cycle of deforestation and restoring deforested areas through various native species grown in nurseries (1). The project is being developed in the cultivation area of the Amazon Bioeconomy Centre (CBCA), from 2023 to 2025, where it will directly benefit the rural community of Vila Nova de Teotônio (3).
The project started in 2019 and has impacted other communities in the area, such as the communities in Nova Mutum Paraná and Ji-Paraná (1). During these years, more than 123,000 trees have been planted in agroforestry on about 110 hectares of land, and edible forests have been created. Since 2022, a new planting phase has been underway, to plant more than 100,000 trees of 87 native species on 40 hectares of degraded forest (4). In conclusion, this project focuses on the development of agroforestry in the face of widespread monospecific soybean fields and intensive cattle ranching (3); the creation of edible forests (3); and the restoration of forest cover to ensure the long-term resilience of the forest (3).
The project started in 2019 and has impacted other communities in the area, such as the communities in Nova Mutum Paraná and Ji-Paraná (1). During these years, more than 123,000 trees have been planted in agroforestry on about 110 hectares of land, and edible forests have been created. Since 2022, a new planting phase has been underway, to plant more than 100,000 trees of 87 native species on 40 hectares of degraded forest (4). In conclusion, this project focuses on the development of agroforestry in the face of widespread monospecific soybean fields and intensive cattle ranching (3); the creation of edible forests (3); and the restoration of forest cover to ensure the long-term resilience of the forest (3).
Community mangrove nurseries "Mangle Verde"
The "Mangle Verde" project is a community-led intervention aimed at reforesting mangrove areas in Cartagena, particularly around the Ciénaga de la Virgen and Ciénaga de Juan Polo. Initiated by Gloria Sánchez and other members of the Villa Gloria community, this project is a response to the environmental degradation caused by urban development, including the construction of a viaduct, and the damages inflicted by invasive settlements and pollution(ref 1,4). The primary goal of the project is to restore the mangrove ecosystems, which are essential for maintaining water quality, preventing coastal erosion and supporting marine biodiversity conservation (ref 4). In addition, this initiative provides socio-economic benefits by fostering ecotourism and increasing fish populations, which directly benefit the local fishing economy(ref 1). The "Mangle Verde" project emerged as a grassroots response to compensations granted by the Concesión Costera for the damage caused by infrastructure projects in the region. Local residents of Villa Gloria, recognizing the importance of the mangrove ecosystem, established nurseries in their homes where they cultivate three types of mangroves (ref 2,4). So far, the initiative has planted over 26,860 mangrove saplings and is committed to continuing the reforestation efforts, which also include cleaning and maintaining the canals around the mangroves (ref 1). Beyond ecological restoration, the project also addresses key environmental risks in Cartagena, including coastal flooding and habitat degradation, driven by both natural phenomena (e.g., tides) and human activities such as urban sprawl and illegal dumping (ref 6, 7).
Nairobi River Basin Programme (NRBP)
Rapid urbanization and a population density of 6,247 people per km² have placed significant stress on Nairobi's natural resources (Ref 1). The 40-km long Nairobi River Basin, originating from the Ondiri Swamp, serves as a vital water source for the city (Ref 1, 2). However, it has suffered severe pollution from untreated sewage, solid waste, industrial contaminants, plastics, and agricultural runoff (Ref 1, 3). This degradation has had a serious impact on the ecosystem, local residents, and biodiversity (Ref 3).
To address these issues, the Nairobi River Basin Programme (NRBP), sponsored by UNEP, was launched in 1999 (Ref 4). Since then, government and non-state actors have worked together on solid waste management, riparian restoration, and wastewater control (Ref 1). The program was implemented in two phases: Phase I (2003–2006) and Phase II (2006–2009), involving stakeholders from the government, private sector, and civil society (Ref 1, 4, 5). Despite these efforts, a study from 2017 found significant tree removal along the river, and between 1988 and 2014, encroachment into the 30-meter riparian buffer zone dramatically increased, particularly between 2010 and 2014, further degrading the river’s health (Ref 1).
To address these issues, the Nairobi River Basin Programme (NRBP), sponsored by UNEP, was launched in 1999 (Ref 4). Since then, government and non-state actors have worked together on solid waste management, riparian restoration, and wastewater control (Ref 1). The program was implemented in two phases: Phase I (2003–2006) and Phase II (2006–2009), involving stakeholders from the government, private sector, and civil society (Ref 1, 4, 5). Despite these efforts, a study from 2017 found significant tree removal along the river, and between 1988 and 2014, encroachment into the 30-meter riparian buffer zone dramatically increased, particularly between 2010 and 2014, further degrading the river’s health (Ref 1).
Montgérald Peri-urban Forest Conservation
The riparian forest of Montgérald, through which the “Monsieur” River flows, is located within Fort-de-France and boasts rich biodiversity, featuring around 100 species of shrubs and trees and about 30 animal species, including 16 types of birds. It is one of the last remnants of the mesophilic forest type and the only example in a French peri-urban setting. This unique ecosystem is recognized as a Natural Area of Ecological, Faunal, and Floral Interest (ZNIEFF) and a Classified Wooded Area (EBC), underscoring the need for conservation efforts.
Covering nearly 21 hectares, this site offers ecological benefits like air quality improvement and temperature regulation, providing a "fresh air island" near the city center. However, it faces significant challenges, including flooding caused by climate change and heavy rains, which exacerbate erosion along the Monsieur River. The area is also threatened by invasive alien species, making conservation measures even more crucial.
Since 2015, the municipality of Fort-de-France, along with project partners, has been working on developing this natural space for both conservation and public engagement purposes. The most recent actions occurred in 2020, including riverbank restoration, clearing invasive species, and creating walking paths and educational installations. Additionally, the project features an awareness campaign targeting local schools. The ongoing initiative aims to merge biodiversity conservation with community recreational use and environmental education, ensuring the resilience of this vital ecosystem against the impacts of climate change. (Refs. 1, 2, 3)
Covering nearly 21 hectares, this site offers ecological benefits like air quality improvement and temperature regulation, providing a "fresh air island" near the city center. However, it faces significant challenges, including flooding caused by climate change and heavy rains, which exacerbate erosion along the Monsieur River. The area is also threatened by invasive alien species, making conservation measures even more crucial.
Since 2015, the municipality of Fort-de-France, along with project partners, has been working on developing this natural space for both conservation and public engagement purposes. The most recent actions occurred in 2020, including riverbank restoration, clearing invasive species, and creating walking paths and educational installations. Additionally, the project features an awareness campaign targeting local schools. The ongoing initiative aims to merge biodiversity conservation with community recreational use and environmental education, ensuring the resilience of this vital ecosystem against the impacts of climate change. (Refs. 1, 2, 3)
PARC Rain Gardens Plymouth
The PARC Rain Garden project in Plymouth, Michigan, is an innovative initiative led by the Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex (PARC) and Friends of the Rouge, aimed at addressing stormwater management and enhancing local environmental quality. Supported by a $400,000 grant from Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) through its Nonpoint Source Program, this project will involve the construction of over 31,500 square feet of rain gardens located on the property of Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex (PARC). These gardens are designed to filter up to 240,000 gallons of stormwater per rainfall event, preventing runoff from entering local waterways like the Tonquish Creek. The rain gardens will also mitigate flooding, reduce pollution, and create a more stable water flow in the Rouge River watershed, which is heavily impacted by urban development.
In addition to their environmental benefits, the rain gardens will provide aesthetic and ecological value to the PARC campus. The plantings, featuring native Michigan species, will create habitats for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, complementing the existing beehives on the PARC rooftop. The project aims to showcase the feasibility of integrating green infrastructure into routine construction, encouraging its adoption in other urban areas and residential spaces.
Ultimately, the PARC Rain Garden project will not only improve stormwater management but also serve as a model for sustainable urban development, enhancing the landscape while fostering environmental stewardship in the Plymouth community.
(Ref.1,2)
In addition to their environmental benefits, the rain gardens will provide aesthetic and ecological value to the PARC campus. The plantings, featuring native Michigan species, will create habitats for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, complementing the existing beehives on the PARC rooftop. The project aims to showcase the feasibility of integrating green infrastructure into routine construction, encouraging its adoption in other urban areas and residential spaces.
Ultimately, the PARC Rain Garden project will not only improve stormwater management but also serve as a model for sustainable urban development, enhancing the landscape while fostering environmental stewardship in the Plymouth community.
(Ref.1,2)
Chandler Park Marshland
Chandler Park, a historic park in Detroit constructed in the 1800s, underwent multiple expansions from 1922 to 1950 to include amenities such as a pool (later converted into a water park), a golf course, and public green spaces. In 2013, an expert panel recommended constructing a 2.5-million-gallon marshland within the park to provide a unique recreational and educational feature and incorporate green infrastructure principles for improved stormwater management. Completed in December 2019, the Chandler Park marshland was a collaborative project between The Greening of Detroit and the Chandler Park Conservancy, designed to enhance Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) across 200 acres.
The marshland manages 2.5 million gallons of stormwater, substantially reducing the load on Detroit’s combined sewer system and minimizing basement flooding during heavy rains. Engineered with rain gardens, bioswales, and a pump system circulating up to 4 feet of water, the marshland fosters a balanced ecosystem with higher oxygen levels, benefiting local flora and fauna.
With 4,500 native plants, the marshland supports diverse wildlife, including migrating birds, turtles, frogs, pollinators like bees and butterflies, and natural mosquito predators. This project not only contributes to flood mitigation but also improves water quality by capturing stormwater and allowing pollutants to settle.
Additionally, the marshland provides a foundation for future environmental education, with plans to add an outdoor classroom and public learning spaces. The use of native plants ensures low maintenance and sustainability, requiring minimal water and fertilizers. By creating new habitats and recreational areas, the Chandler Park Marshland promotes biodiversity, environmental education, and community engagement, while alleviating urban runoff’s impact on Detroit’s sewer system.
(Ref.1-3)
The marshland manages 2.5 million gallons of stormwater, substantially reducing the load on Detroit’s combined sewer system and minimizing basement flooding during heavy rains. Engineered with rain gardens, bioswales, and a pump system circulating up to 4 feet of water, the marshland fosters a balanced ecosystem with higher oxygen levels, benefiting local flora and fauna.
With 4,500 native plants, the marshland supports diverse wildlife, including migrating birds, turtles, frogs, pollinators like bees and butterflies, and natural mosquito predators. This project not only contributes to flood mitigation but also improves water quality by capturing stormwater and allowing pollutants to settle.
Additionally, the marshland provides a foundation for future environmental education, with plans to add an outdoor classroom and public learning spaces. The use of native plants ensures low maintenance and sustainability, requiring minimal water and fertilizers. By creating new habitats and recreational areas, the Chandler Park Marshland promotes biodiversity, environmental education, and community engagement, while alleviating urban runoff’s impact on Detroit’s sewer system.
(Ref.1-3)
Restoration of the Panke river
The Panke is a watercourse that rises outside Berlin and reaches the urban area of the city, flows through the districts of Pankow and Mitte and flows into the Berlin-Spandau Ship Canal in Wedding. The length of the Panke is around 29 kilometres. Almost the entire length of the Panke in Berlin (around 17.6 km) is to be renaturalised - on the section from the state border in the north of Berlin to its confluence with the Berlin-Spandauer-Schifffahrtskanal (BSSK). The Panke is currently a small watercourse that has been heavily remodelled by humans. In large parts of the watercourse, the banks have been straightened like a canal and reinforced with sheet piling, among other things. Existing riverbed drops and weirs prevent fish from travelling unhindered through the watercourse. Studies on water body (structural) quality, typification and other biological quality characteristics have shown that the Panke has poor status values in the majority of Berlin's sections, e.g. in terms of the fish population. The negative assessment results are primarily attributed to the lack of habitat and structural diversity, the lack of passability of the watercourse and, in some cases, high nutrient loads. (Ref. 1)
The restoration of the river was initiated by the State Berlin, following the European Water Framework Directive. The central aim is to implement flood plains and recreate the pre-straightened water course, to ensure space for flooding, habitats for more diverse flora and fauna, increase water flow for better water quality and create a site for recreation in a densely built city. (Ref. 1; Ref. 2) The project started back in 2003 and is expected to be finished in the 2030s (Ref. 2; Ref. 7).
The restoration of the river was initiated by the State Berlin, following the European Water Framework Directive. The central aim is to implement flood plains and recreate the pre-straightened water course, to ensure space for flooding, habitats for more diverse flora and fauna, increase water flow for better water quality and create a site for recreation in a densely built city. (Ref. 1; Ref. 2) The project started back in 2003 and is expected to be finished in the 2030s (Ref. 2; Ref. 7).
Improving Ngong Hills Forest Conservation Efforts through Raising Local Community Awareness of Biodiversity Conservation
Ngong is a town in southern Kenya, located near Nairobi in Kajiado County, on the slopes of the Ngong Hills. The municipality has experienced significant development and population growth due to improved infrastructure and social amenities. However, this expansion poses a threat to biodiversity, as increased demand for agricultural land, wood, and raw materials is depleting the area's forests and putting many species at risk of extinction. Overgrazing, illegal logging, invasive species, and climate change-induced extremes like droughts and floods have further exacerbated the situation.
In response, the Rufford Foundation proposed the Improving Ngong Hills Forest Conservation Efforts through Raising Local Community Awareness of Biodiversity Conservation project. The initiative seeks to restore the Ngong Hills forest ecosystem through community-driven conservation. A nursery for native species was established, and tree planting campaigns were conducted in collaboration with national and local governments, community-based organizations, indigenous groups, and schools. Additionally, awareness programs and capacity-building efforts were launched, engaging local schools in restoration activities and organizing workshops to train community members and officials. (Ref. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
In response, the Rufford Foundation proposed the Improving Ngong Hills Forest Conservation Efforts through Raising Local Community Awareness of Biodiversity Conservation project. The initiative seeks to restore the Ngong Hills forest ecosystem through community-driven conservation. A nursery for native species was established, and tree planting campaigns were conducted in collaboration with national and local governments, community-based organizations, indigenous groups, and schools. Additionally, awareness programs and capacity-building efforts were launched, engaging local schools in restoration activities and organizing workshops to train community members and officials. (Ref. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
