Miraflores Bicentennial Park
The Miraflores Bicentennial Park has been built on the Malecón de la Reserva and the Quebrada de Armendáriz. It was inaugurated in June 2022 as one of the created projects within the framework of the commemorations of the 200 years of Independence celebrations (1). It is considered a new green lung of Lima (2), as it has a green area of 30,400 square metres and stands on one of the cliffs of the Costa Verde (1). It has a system of terraces that replicates the construction model of the Incas, which has made it possible to additionally reinforce the soil and the slopes with the use of retaining walls up to 10 metres high, with horizontal geogrids and vertical geocells (1, 2). It was structured on a stabilised slope in order to mitigate the risk of landslides (4), and an irrigation system was implemented to stabilise the soil (4).
This space was built as a biodiversity garden with more than 160,000 xerophilic coastal species with low water consumption, 300 trees and 80 palm trees. It also offers places for tourism, such as viewpoints and squares, where cultural events, open-air activities and rest areas are held (1). It also aims to connect aspects of landscape conservation, preservation of biodiversity in the city, and the construction of a cultural landscape in which human action is complementary and friendly to the natural environment (9). Finally, it seeks to contribute to the reduction of the municipality's carbon footprint by reducing the harmful effects of urban expansion on the Lima cliff ecosystem, such as deforestation, water pollution and loss of biodiversity (9).
This space was built as a biodiversity garden with more than 160,000 xerophilic coastal species with low water consumption, 300 trees and 80 palm trees. It also offers places for tourism, such as viewpoints and squares, where cultural events, open-air activities and rest areas are held (1). It also aims to connect aspects of landscape conservation, preservation of biodiversity in the city, and the construction of a cultural landscape in which human action is complementary and friendly to the natural environment (9). Finally, it seeks to contribute to the reduction of the municipality's carbon footprint by reducing the harmful effects of urban expansion on the Lima cliff ecosystem, such as deforestation, water pollution and loss of biodiversity (9).
Improvement of Bărboi Park
In 2017, many public parks in Iași were in poor condition, suffering from neglect and inadequate maintenance. Parks like Barboi were left unmanaged, with deteriorating infrastructure and overgrown vegetation. In response, the municipality of Iași initiated efforts to revitalize these green spaces.
The Barboi Park revitalization focused on rehabilitating 8,200 sqm of a degraded area (1 & 6, p. 106). Accessible pathways were repaired, and benches were installed to create a relaxing environment (1 & 4). Existing trees and vegetation were pruned, new trees and ornamental plants were introduced, and the soil was enhanced with more fertile layers to correct uneven levels (1 & 4). The primary aim of the new vegetation was to improve the park’s aesthetic appeal and boost biodiversity (1).
The project was led by the Municipality of Iași through its Public Services Department (Servicii Publice Iași), which oversaw the improvements (1 & 6, p. 106). It was part of a larger urban plan to expand and enhance the city’s green spaces (6, p. 106 & 7, p. 336). This plan aimed to improve the city’s visual appeal and increase livability for residents (6, p. 106). The project’s total cost was approximately €260,450.45 (6, p. 107). Later that year, the park was renamed "Woodrow Wilson" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the U.S. mission to Iași during WWI, with a small monument erected to mark the occasion (5). The initiative also aligned with national guidelines on green space regeneration, per capita green space, and accessibility (7 & 9).
The Barboi Park revitalization focused on rehabilitating 8,200 sqm of a degraded area (1 & 6, p. 106). Accessible pathways were repaired, and benches were installed to create a relaxing environment (1 & 4). Existing trees and vegetation were pruned, new trees and ornamental plants were introduced, and the soil was enhanced with more fertile layers to correct uneven levels (1 & 4). The primary aim of the new vegetation was to improve the park’s aesthetic appeal and boost biodiversity (1).
The project was led by the Municipality of Iași through its Public Services Department (Servicii Publice Iași), which oversaw the improvements (1 & 6, p. 106). It was part of a larger urban plan to expand and enhance the city’s green spaces (6, p. 106 & 7, p. 336). This plan aimed to improve the city’s visual appeal and increase livability for residents (6, p. 106). The project’s total cost was approximately €260,450.45 (6, p. 107). Later that year, the park was renamed "Woodrow Wilson" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the U.S. mission to Iași during WWI, with a small monument erected to mark the occasion (5). The initiative also aligned with national guidelines on green space regeneration, per capita green space, and accessibility (7 & 9).
Chaowan Nursery Garden Base Project
The Chaowan Nursery Garden Base Project (潮玩苗圃基地), located along the Dianchi Greenway in Kunming, was established by the Kunming Gardens Virescence Bureau (昆明市园林绿化局) in 2022 as part of the city's efforts to transform into a "city of parks" (Ref 2, 3). Covering 639 mu (42.6 hectares), the Chaowan Nursery Garden has introduced over 1.4 million plants, including trees, flowers, and grasses, greatly expanding the city's green spaces (Ref 3). It serves as a key resource for the Kunming Greening Service Center (昆明市绿化服务中心), providing seedlings for major greening projects along roads like Guangfu Road, Airport Road, Beijing Road, and the Second Ring Elevated Road (Ref 4).
Innovatively designed, the nursery also functions as a park, offering an "immersive" experience with various themed areas such as rainwater gardens, rural gardens, Chinese gardens, and scenic balconies. These spaces allow visitors to stroll through and enjoy the beauty of various flowers and natural surroundings (Ref 4). The project also collaborates with local universities on seedling research, capacity building, and resource sharing, further enhancing its multifaceted role (Ref 3).
Since opening to the public in 2023, the Chaowan Nursery Garden has become a popular destination for families, young people, and children, offering both recreational and educational experiences (Ref 5, 6, 7, 8).
Innovatively designed, the nursery also functions as a park, offering an "immersive" experience with various themed areas such as rainwater gardens, rural gardens, Chinese gardens, and scenic balconies. These spaces allow visitors to stroll through and enjoy the beauty of various flowers and natural surroundings (Ref 4). The project also collaborates with local universities on seedling research, capacity building, and resource sharing, further enhancing its multifaceted role (Ref 3).
Since opening to the public in 2023, the Chaowan Nursery Garden has become a popular destination for families, young people, and children, offering both recreational and educational experiences (Ref 5, 6, 7, 8).
Miyawaki Urban forest in Areeiro
In Lisbon's Areeiro district, Urbem, a non-profit organization, is leading the creation of a 2500m2 Miyawaki mini-forest in Casal Vistoso Urban Park. This initiative involves densely planting native species to rapidly establish a diverse, self-sustaining forest ecosystem. Supported by the Lisbon City Council, the project aims to enhance urban biodiversity, improve air quality, and contribute to climate resilience. Volunteers from the local community play a crucial role in every stage, from preparing the land to planting and maintaining the forest. Despite initial challenges, such as a 40-50% plant survival rate, the forest is expected to become self-sustaining within three years. The project focuses on environmental restoration and seeks to engage and educate the community, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to these new green spaces (Ref 1; Ref 2; Ref 3; Ref 4).
Reuse Park Medicinareberget
A green area was turned into a "reuse park" to save trees, bushes and other plants that had to be moved from elsewhere due to construction work. The project resulted from constructing the new business school at the University of Gothenburg, where circular economy initiatives are being tested. Plants that would have to be removed from that site were moved to the park at Medicinareberget temporarily. They will later be replanted elsewhere on campus, saving money and reducing the environmental impact of buying new plants. The lead actor in the project is the public real estate company Akademiska Hus, which owns and manages the affected parts of the university campus. The reuse park was established in 2021, and it's implied that it can continue to function as a storage site for plants from different construction locations. The project is highlighted as a learning opportunity for how the reuse of plants can be implemented in future construction projects. The project is connected to the regional initiative Återbruk Väst within the national platform CCbuild, which promotes circular solutions in the construction centre [Ref. 1-5].
Floating University
The Floating University was initiated in 2018 at the rainwater retention basin of the former Tempelhof airport in Berlin. Though not an official university, it serves as a space for transdisciplinary, communal learning, transforming an abandoned urban site into a vibrant community resource. The project reclaims the basin, hosting workshops and events that range from ecological lectures to cultural and art programs, fostering collaboration between diverse disciplines and communities.
The architecture collective raumlaborberlin originally envisioned the project as a six-month initiative. Artists, universities, and seminar groups contributed to designing the space and organizing workshops. However, due to its success, an NGO, Floating e.V., was established to sustain the project. Today, the NGO manages the site and continues its mission of engaging communities with urban and ecological themes.
After Tempelhof airport closed in 2008, the basin was infrequently cleaned, leading to contamination and sediment accumulation. Over time, a wetland ecosystem emerged, attracting plants, insects, birds, mammals, and amphibians. This natural development complements the Floating University’s infrastructure, which consists of open timber structures like a kitchen, art installations, communal spaces, vertical gardens, gardening beds, and an auditorium. These structures integrate seamlessly with the basin’s existing technical framework and wetland environment.
Floating e.V. aims to make the basin accessible to Berlin’s urban population while sparking discussions about urban climate, resource management, and water cycles through diverse and artistic programs. Smaller initiatives focus on specific ecological themes, such as plant diversity and soil health, through projects like a seed archive and soil lab.
The Floating University exemplifies how abandoned urban spaces can be revitalized into hubs for learning, creativity, and ecological awareness. (1-3, 8, 9)
The architecture collective raumlaborberlin originally envisioned the project as a six-month initiative. Artists, universities, and seminar groups contributed to designing the space and organizing workshops. However, due to its success, an NGO, Floating e.V., was established to sustain the project. Today, the NGO manages the site and continues its mission of engaging communities with urban and ecological themes.
After Tempelhof airport closed in 2008, the basin was infrequently cleaned, leading to contamination and sediment accumulation. Over time, a wetland ecosystem emerged, attracting plants, insects, birds, mammals, and amphibians. This natural development complements the Floating University’s infrastructure, which consists of open timber structures like a kitchen, art installations, communal spaces, vertical gardens, gardening beds, and an auditorium. These structures integrate seamlessly with the basin’s existing technical framework and wetland environment.
Floating e.V. aims to make the basin accessible to Berlin’s urban population while sparking discussions about urban climate, resource management, and water cycles through diverse and artistic programs. Smaller initiatives focus on specific ecological themes, such as plant diversity and soil health, through projects like a seed archive and soil lab.
The Floating University exemplifies how abandoned urban spaces can be revitalized into hubs for learning, creativity, and ecological awareness. (1-3, 8, 9)
Rehabilitation of the Ciurchi Park
The project aims to modernize Ciurchi Park, also known as "Tătărași Park," due to the degraded state of its current infrastructure (1 - 8). Initiated by the Municipality of Iași, the initiative seeks furthermore to increase the amount of green space per inhabitant in the city and reduce overcrowding in other parks, thereby diversifying options for citizens (1 - 9). Planning for the project began in 2022, and the bidding process for its execution was released in April 2024, which is still awaiting a decision (1, 2. 7).
The implementation is expected to involve interventions in existing green spaces, including the planting of 120 trees, 1,000 bushes, and approximately 2,000 species of flowers and ornamental plants. The project will also feature a monitoring program for tree species, management of existing vegetation to protect healthy trees, and removal of invasive or degraded plants (1, 2, 4, 8). Additionally, it will include benches, facilities for physical exercise, an underground waste collector, and a rainwater drainage system, among other infrastructure improvements (1 to 8).
The project is expected to be financed by the local budget and EU funds, with a total estimated cost exceeding 5,000,000 euros, including taxes (2, 4). It is included in the Integrated Urban Development Strategy 2015-2030 for the city (8, p. 12).
The goals of the project are to modernize the park, improve accessibility for citizens in the surrounding area, minimize management costs for the municipality, ensure a sustainable habitat for flora and fauna with minimal invasive interventions, and harmonize architectural proposals with the landscape (6, 8, p. 32). Other objectives include protecting biodiversity, enhancing the park’s aesthetics and the overall city environment, and reducing CO2 emissions, which will ultimately improve the quality of life for surrounding residents (8, p. 141).
The implementation is expected to involve interventions in existing green spaces, including the planting of 120 trees, 1,000 bushes, and approximately 2,000 species of flowers and ornamental plants. The project will also feature a monitoring program for tree species, management of existing vegetation to protect healthy trees, and removal of invasive or degraded plants (1, 2, 4, 8). Additionally, it will include benches, facilities for physical exercise, an underground waste collector, and a rainwater drainage system, among other infrastructure improvements (1 to 8).
The project is expected to be financed by the local budget and EU funds, with a total estimated cost exceeding 5,000,000 euros, including taxes (2, 4). It is included in the Integrated Urban Development Strategy 2015-2030 for the city (8, p. 12).
The goals of the project are to modernize the park, improve accessibility for citizens in the surrounding area, minimize management costs for the municipality, ensure a sustainable habitat for flora and fauna with minimal invasive interventions, and harmonize architectural proposals with the landscape (6, 8, p. 32). Other objectives include protecting biodiversity, enhancing the park’s aesthetics and the overall city environment, and reducing CO2 emissions, which will ultimately improve the quality of life for surrounding residents (8, p. 141).
River corridor restoration: Love Your River Stour
Sourced from Northern Worcestershire, the River Stour has played a significant role in the industrial heritage of Birmingham and the Black Country (Ref 1). It consists of 11 Water Framework Directive water bodies and multiple tributaries, spanning 200 km in length (Ref 2, 3). Once a pristine Salmonid river that powered the Industrial Revolution, rapid industrialization severely impacted the river, leaving it heavily polluted with sewage (ibid.).
Initiated by the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT) in 2021, the Love Your River Stour (LYRS) project focuses on Dudley and Wolverhampton, aiming to transform the River Stour and its surrounding green spaces into a beautiful, wildlife-rich source of pride for local communities and to create a corridor for wildlife to thrive through the heart of the Black Country (Ref 4).
Phase 1 of the project was completed in June 2023, bringing significant improvements along the river (Ref 5, 6, 7, 8). In Phase 2, the project will extend to a stretch running through Cradley Heath and Lye (Ref 7, 8). This initiative is funded by the UK Government's Green Recovery Challenge Fund.
Initiated by the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT) in 2021, the Love Your River Stour (LYRS) project focuses on Dudley and Wolverhampton, aiming to transform the River Stour and its surrounding green spaces into a beautiful, wildlife-rich source of pride for local communities and to create a corridor for wildlife to thrive through the heart of the Black Country (Ref 4).
Phase 1 of the project was completed in June 2023, bringing significant improvements along the river (Ref 5, 6, 7, 8). In Phase 2, the project will extend to a stretch running through Cradley Heath and Lye (Ref 7, 8). This initiative is funded by the UK Government's Green Recovery Challenge Fund.
Dudley's Path to Nature Recovery
Dudley, a historic market town in England and part of Birmingham's metro area, is reported to have some of the lowest rates of public access to nature in the country, ranking in the bottom 10% of governmental statistics for available greenspace relative to population density (Ref 1). To address this issue, the Dudley's Path to Nature Recovery project was launched in 2024 by the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT). The initiative aims to reduce inequalities in access to nature and create a greener future for local residents (ibid.).
Funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority, the project seeks to reconnect local communities with nature through five key activities: conservation work, community engagement, citizen science, partnership development, and the creation of new walking routes (Ref 1, 2, 3).
Among the project's activities, conservation efforts will include community engagement and focus on woodland improvement, heathland creation, and more. Additionally, the project will bring together key partners and community groups to explore collaboration models and identify potential sites for joint projects. Lastly, new walking routes will be created across the project’s landscape (Ref 1).
Funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority, the project seeks to reconnect local communities with nature through five key activities: conservation work, community engagement, citizen science, partnership development, and the creation of new walking routes (Ref 1, 2, 3).
Among the project's activities, conservation efforts will include community engagement and focus on woodland improvement, heathland creation, and more. Additionally, the project will bring together key partners and community groups to explore collaboration models and identify potential sites for joint projects. Lastly, new walking routes will be created across the project’s landscape (Ref 1).
National Botanical Garden
Peru is classified as one of the 17 most biodiverse countries in the world, so biodiversity and its conservation are important national aspects (2, 3, 4). However, one-third of the native flora currently assessed is threatened (3, 4). Thus, the creation of the Botanical Garden represents the opening of a space to learn about, study and conserve the national flora by strengthening Peruvian society's awareness of its value (4, 5).
The Botanical Garden is in its early stages of development and is not open to the public yet, but its development and implementation have the support of several associations such as the British Council, Concytec, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Culture, the British Embassy and the Asociación Pro Jardín Botánico Nacional de Lima (1). The initiative has been incorporated as part of the Bicentennial City project of the Ministry of Environment in Ancon (6).
The implementation began in 2021 on a 10-hectare plot of land donated by the Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (UNALM) in Lima (3), and it will be carried out in several stages. An Inter-Institutional Committee has been established to oversee its development (3). In addition, it is planned to extend the idea of botanical gardens to other regions of the country, creating a network that will allow the conservation and study of flora in different contexts (4, 5), as the purpose of its development is to condense in one place all the biological richness of the country (7).
With this project, they aim to strengthen the conservation of plant species, the generation of inputs for education, and as a source of cultural spaces and for the well-being of its citizens, among others (1, 2). The Botanical Garden is intended to house a select sample of the more than 25,000 species in Peru, emphasising those that are endemic, threatened and of social, cultural and economic relevance (8).
The Botanical Garden is in its early stages of development and is not open to the public yet, but its development and implementation have the support of several associations such as the British Council, Concytec, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Culture, the British Embassy and the Asociación Pro Jardín Botánico Nacional de Lima (1). The initiative has been incorporated as part of the Bicentennial City project of the Ministry of Environment in Ancon (6).
The implementation began in 2021 on a 10-hectare plot of land donated by the Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (UNALM) in Lima (3), and it will be carried out in several stages. An Inter-Institutional Committee has been established to oversee its development (3). In addition, it is planned to extend the idea of botanical gardens to other regions of the country, creating a network that will allow the conservation and study of flora in different contexts (4, 5), as the purpose of its development is to condense in one place all the biological richness of the country (7).
With this project, they aim to strengthen the conservation of plant species, the generation of inputs for education, and as a source of cultural spaces and for the well-being of its citizens, among others (1, 2). The Botanical Garden is intended to house a select sample of the more than 25,000 species in Peru, emphasising those that are endemic, threatened and of social, cultural and economic relevance (8).
