Mini Woodlands in South Dublin
The likely impacts of climate change in South Dublin County include an increased risk of flooding, more frequent summer droughts, deteriorating air and water quality, and biodiversity loss (1). To address these climate challenges, the county developed the County Development Plan 2016-2022 as part of the South Dublin Climate Action Plan, aiming to establish a comprehensive legislative and policy framework for green infrastructure (GI) planning (1).
The plan outlines various objectives, including creating a coherent, integrated, and adaptable GI network across South Dublin County. One key initiative is the establishment of native mini woodlands throughout the city, designed to form strategic links and integrate the GI Strategy’s objectives into all relevant land-use plans and development across the county (1).
The purpose of these mini woodlands is to connect green spaces across the city (minimum size of 100 sq m), sequester carbon, and promote biodiversity in suitable locations, such as built-up areas, low-grade parkland, and other zoned areas deemed appropriate (1). Given the long time required for tree growth, the project employs the Miyawaki method, planting a high density of diverse native species to create mature forests up to ten times faster than traditional plantations (2). These forests are estimated to host 20 to 100 times more biodiversity and absorb carbon up to 40 times more effectively, without the use of chemicals or fertilizers; key factors include ground preparation, planting density, and species diversity (2).
In 2022, the project held a planting day for the mini woodlands initiative on Mill Lane, where 1,200 native trees and shrubs were planted with the help of volunteers from local schools, the community, a corporate group, and the Mayor of South Dublin, Councillor Emma Murphy (2).
The plan outlines various objectives, including creating a coherent, integrated, and adaptable GI network across South Dublin County. One key initiative is the establishment of native mini woodlands throughout the city, designed to form strategic links and integrate the GI Strategy’s objectives into all relevant land-use plans and development across the county (1).
The purpose of these mini woodlands is to connect green spaces across the city (minimum size of 100 sq m), sequester carbon, and promote biodiversity in suitable locations, such as built-up areas, low-grade parkland, and other zoned areas deemed appropriate (1). Given the long time required for tree growth, the project employs the Miyawaki method, planting a high density of diverse native species to create mature forests up to ten times faster than traditional plantations (2). These forests are estimated to host 20 to 100 times more biodiversity and absorb carbon up to 40 times more effectively, without the use of chemicals or fertilizers; key factors include ground preparation, planting density, and species diversity (2).
In 2022, the project held a planting day for the mini woodlands initiative on Mill Lane, where 1,200 native trees and shrubs were planted with the help of volunteers from local schools, the community, a corporate group, and the Mayor of South Dublin, Councillor Emma Murphy (2).
Treetroit
Over the past century, vast portions of the world’s oldest forests have been lost to clear-cutting and managed forestry (1). Arboretum Detroit is working to counter this trend by reforesting Detroit’s urban landscape, transforming abandoned city blocks into thriving groves of trees (1). Each parcel of land features trees that showcase the unique contours and characteristics of specific species, creating a diverse urban forest mosaic across the city (1). These "forest patches" are protected, designed to mature safely for generations, offering a space of tranquility and natural beauty for all Detroiters (1).
Arboretum Detroit’s main goal is to cultivate environmental consciousness, inspiring the community to consider our interconnectedness with nature and our impact on it (1). Through their reforestation mission, they demonstrate the ecological, cultural, aesthetic, and economic value of trees, both locally and globally (1). Trees alter our environment by using their leaves to filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles. Deciduous shade trees cool homes in the summer and allow the winter sun to heat homes when they lose their leaves. Trees can serve as a windbreak. The more compact the foliage on the group of trees the more effective the windbreak. Their pilot project, launched on Earth Day 2019, brought these values to life. Volunteers and members planted 21 trees across the site, including species like Princeton Sentry Ginkgo, Redpoint Red Maple, Paper Birch, Cedar, Yew, and understory trees like Kousa Dogwood and Forest Pansy Redbud, enhancing the habitat for local pollinators and birds (2). The trees were arranged in trios, interspersed with native seeds, soil, compost, and glacial boulders to create a healthy and engaging environment for all (2).
Arboretum Detroit’s main goal is to cultivate environmental consciousness, inspiring the community to consider our interconnectedness with nature and our impact on it (1). Through their reforestation mission, they demonstrate the ecological, cultural, aesthetic, and economic value of trees, both locally and globally (1). Trees alter our environment by using their leaves to filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles. Deciduous shade trees cool homes in the summer and allow the winter sun to heat homes when they lose their leaves. Trees can serve as a windbreak. The more compact the foliage on the group of trees the more effective the windbreak. Their pilot project, launched on Earth Day 2019, brought these values to life. Volunteers and members planted 21 trees across the site, including species like Princeton Sentry Ginkgo, Redpoint Red Maple, Paper Birch, Cedar, Yew, and understory trees like Kousa Dogwood and Forest Pansy Redbud, enhancing the habitat for local pollinators and birds (2). The trees were arranged in trios, interspersed with native seeds, soil, compost, and glacial boulders to create a healthy and engaging environment for all (2).
Sacred Grounds St Suzanne Rain Gardens
In 2018, the City of Detroit implemented a drainage charge to help cover the costs of capturing, conveying, pumping, treating, and safely returning combined sewage to the Detroit and Rouge Rivers (1). The charge is calculated based on each parcel’s impact on the sewer system, particularly by measuring impervious acreage (1). Since then, this fee has posed significant challenges for one group in particular: Detroit’s houses of worship (2). Churches, with their large roofs and parking lots, face higher monthly drainage charges, creating financial strain for many faith leaders (2).
To support these institutions, Sacred Grounds has been providing grants, labor, and design assistance to install projects that reduce water bills and drainage fees (2). Sacred Grounds collaborates with the National Wildlife Federation, Friends of the Rouge, and Sierra Club of Michigan to implement these projects through the city’s green credit program (2). A recent initiative involved installing four rain gardens located on the perimeter of St. Suzanne Our Lady Gate of Heaven Church (3). These bioretention gardens, funded by several private and public actors and led by Detroit Future City, diverts water from 20 large downspouts, redirecting an estimated 500,000 gallons of runoff annually away from the municipal sewer system (3, 4).
In addition to managing water, the gardens foster a thriving habitat for pollinators and adds beauty to the area (3). St. Suzanne’s commitment to environmental education includes engaging over 130 youth and adults in training programs that build pathways to STEAM careers and opportunities where local residents are often underrepresented (4). The church also features an innovative, eco-friendly outdoor classroom developed by students, further supporting their sustainability mission (4).
To support these institutions, Sacred Grounds has been providing grants, labor, and design assistance to install projects that reduce water bills and drainage fees (2). Sacred Grounds collaborates with the National Wildlife Federation, Friends of the Rouge, and Sierra Club of Michigan to implement these projects through the city’s green credit program (2). A recent initiative involved installing four rain gardens located on the perimeter of St. Suzanne Our Lady Gate of Heaven Church (3). These bioretention gardens, funded by several private and public actors and led by Detroit Future City, diverts water from 20 large downspouts, redirecting an estimated 500,000 gallons of runoff annually away from the municipal sewer system (3, 4).
In addition to managing water, the gardens foster a thriving habitat for pollinators and adds beauty to the area (3). St. Suzanne’s commitment to environmental education includes engaging over 130 youth and adults in training programs that build pathways to STEAM careers and opportunities where local residents are often underrepresented (4). The church also features an innovative, eco-friendly outdoor classroom developed by students, further supporting their sustainability mission (4).
TPC Eco-friendly Golf Course
The environmental impact of golf has led to growing calls to make the sport more sustainable (1). Golf course maintenance often involves carbon-intensive fertilizers, frequent mowing, and, in some cases, the clearing of forests or trees that naturally absorb carbon dioxide to make room for expansive fairways (1). However, the Tournament Players Club (TPC) Michigan is working to create courses that benefit both golfers and the environment (2).
Fifteen years ago, the site was a neglected floodplain along the Rouge River, initially purchased by Henry Ford in 1915 and once littered with community waste and old motor parts from the Ford Motor Company (2-3). Today, it has been transformed into an 85.8-hectare course that supports a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, fish, foxes, and coyotes (2). Led by Jack Nicklaus, the restoration aimed to turn this former waste site into an eco-friendly course (2). With guidance from Audubon International, the course was converted into a wildlife sanctuary, becoming the world’s first golf course to receive the prestigious John James Audubon Environmental Steward Award for ecological restoration (2).
TPC Michigan features native Michigan plants, such as viburnums, which produce berries for wildlife, along with various native grasses (2). To prioritize environmental stewardship, the course managers have created buffer zones to protect natural habitats and conserve water by using coring methods to monitor soil moisture (2). Pesticide use is minimized; instead, staff monitor for signs of disease or pests and test the soil to determine the specific nutrients needed for the turf (2). The course’s links-style layout includes rolling fairways, tiered greens, and natural wetlands, with tee options ranging from 5.5 to 6.4 meters (4). By establishing a wildlife sanctuary, TPC Michigan offers golfers a unique experience that fosters a connection with nature (3).
Fifteen years ago, the site was a neglected floodplain along the Rouge River, initially purchased by Henry Ford in 1915 and once littered with community waste and old motor parts from the Ford Motor Company (2-3). Today, it has been transformed into an 85.8-hectare course that supports a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, fish, foxes, and coyotes (2). Led by Jack Nicklaus, the restoration aimed to turn this former waste site into an eco-friendly course (2). With guidance from Audubon International, the course was converted into a wildlife sanctuary, becoming the world’s first golf course to receive the prestigious John James Audubon Environmental Steward Award for ecological restoration (2).
TPC Michigan features native Michigan plants, such as viburnums, which produce berries for wildlife, along with various native grasses (2). To prioritize environmental stewardship, the course managers have created buffer zones to protect natural habitats and conserve water by using coring methods to monitor soil moisture (2). Pesticide use is minimized; instead, staff monitor for signs of disease or pests and test the soil to determine the specific nutrients needed for the turf (2). The course’s links-style layout includes rolling fairways, tiered greens, and natural wetlands, with tee options ranging from 5.5 to 6.4 meters (4). By establishing a wildlife sanctuary, TPC Michigan offers golfers a unique experience that fosters a connection with nature (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)
Rescue MI Nature Now Pollinator Project
Across Detroit, neglected properties and vacant lots are a common sight (1). Nearly three-quarters of Detroit residents report that there is currently deterioration—defined in the survey as a building or property visibly declining due to long-term neglect—in their neighborhoods (1). One organization, Rescue MI Nature Now, a Michigan nonprofit, is dedicated to transforming these neglected areas into beautiful, functional spaces that benefit both people and wildlife (2).
In 2022, the organization purchased property from the Detroit Land Bank that was marked for demolition (3). Following extensive renovations, the building—now named the Innovative Youth Studio—has become a hub for multiple community initiatives. These include a community garden across the street, a culinary studio that teaches young people how to prepare nutritious meals, a pollinator studio that educates on the critical role pollinators play in the food chain, and a hydroponic studio where plants are grown using nutrient-rich water instead of soil (3).
The pollinator project, developed in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, supports small bee colonies by planting areas with trees, flowers, and native plants (2). To further enhance biodiversity and support butterflies, bees, and birds, Rescue MI Nature Now partnered with Bowling Green State University to gain insights into pollinator biodiversity and habitat potential (2). Through this initiative, the organization aims to raise awareness about pollinators, highlight their positive impact, offer guidance on creating pollinator-friendly spaces at home and enhance the quality of life for local residents and communities (2).
Additionally, the organization runs a Sustainable Youth Stewardship Program, where young people learn to garden, grow trees, identify various plants and invasive species, and practice conservation skills such as creating pollinator habitats and managing community gardens (3).
In 2022, the organization purchased property from the Detroit Land Bank that was marked for demolition (3). Following extensive renovations, the building—now named the Innovative Youth Studio—has become a hub for multiple community initiatives. These include a community garden across the street, a culinary studio that teaches young people how to prepare nutritious meals, a pollinator studio that educates on the critical role pollinators play in the food chain, and a hydroponic studio where plants are grown using nutrient-rich water instead of soil (3).
The pollinator project, developed in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, supports small bee colonies by planting areas with trees, flowers, and native plants (2). To further enhance biodiversity and support butterflies, bees, and birds, Rescue MI Nature Now partnered with Bowling Green State University to gain insights into pollinator biodiversity and habitat potential (2). Through this initiative, the organization aims to raise awareness about pollinators, highlight their positive impact, offer guidance on creating pollinator-friendly spaces at home and enhance the quality of life for local residents and communities (2).
Additionally, the organization runs a Sustainable Youth Stewardship Program, where young people learn to garden, grow trees, identify various plants and invasive species, and practice conservation skills such as creating pollinator habitats and managing community gardens (3).
Municipal biodiversity conservation project
The Waliwa project, launched in 2017 by the municipality of Sainte-Luce, is a collaborative effort dedicated to restoring marine biodiversity, enhancing the ecological balance of the bay area, revitalizing the local ecosystem and supporting sustainable economic activities. By focusing on marine biodiversity conservation, Waliwa addresses several critical environmental challenges. The project helps mitigate coastline erosion, support the blue economy through artisanal fishing and tourism, and foster an environmentally friendly culture among the local community.
So far, the Waliwa project has implemented three initiatives: it restored the Gros Raisin backshore to address erosion and provide nesting sea turtles with protected space (Ref 4). The project also intervened to restore the Pont Café pond, which was covered in Salvinia Molesta, preventing the intake of oxygen and hampering its role as a water filter, habitat for species and flood regulator .
Furthermore, the project has conducted studies and raised awareness about the challenges posed by wastewater management on the health of municipal water bodies. Through these efforts, Waliwa is working to create a more sustainable and resilient marine environment for future generations. (Ref 4, 5, 6; 12)
So far, the Waliwa project has implemented three initiatives: it restored the Gros Raisin backshore to address erosion and provide nesting sea turtles with protected space (Ref 4). The project also intervened to restore the Pont Café pond, which was covered in Salvinia Molesta, preventing the intake of oxygen and hampering its role as a water filter, habitat for species and flood regulator .
Furthermore, the project has conducted studies and raised awareness about the challenges posed by wastewater management on the health of municipal water bodies. Through these efforts, Waliwa is working to create a more sustainable and resilient marine environment for future generations. (Ref 4, 5, 6; 12)
Coral conservation project in Martinique
The Acropora Project is a coral restoration initiative launched in 2015 by the Martinican Regional Directorate of Environment, Planning, and Housing, primarily implemented by the nonprofit organization Assomer. It focuses on two critically endangered Caribbean coral species: Acropora cervicornis and Acropora palmata, as classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. While Acropora palmata thrives on the Atlantic seabed of Martinique, Acropora cervicornis had seemingly vanished from local waters by 2007, despite previously providing crucial habitats for marine life. However, this species was rediscovered in 2013 at Loup Caravelle on the Atlantic side of Martinique.
The initiative began by extracting cuttings from both species at Loup Caravelle and nurturing them at a separate site in Le Diamant. In 2019, these corals were transplanted to three locations on the seabed of Sainte-Luce, demonstrating surprising growth patterns despite the site's low to medium environmental quality.
The project's primary aim was to prevent the permanent disappearance of both coral species through spatial replication techniques, including cutting and transplantation. Particular attention was given to enhancing the genetic variability and range of Acropora cervicornis. The initiative also aimed to raise awareness about current coral conservation challenges.
Additionally, the project included a research component that contributed to a better understanding of environmental conservation and the restoration of Acropora cervicornis populations. Unfortunately, a temperature increase at the end of 2023 resulted in the decimation of all corals at the transplant sites. (Ref. 1 -5)
The initiative began by extracting cuttings from both species at Loup Caravelle and nurturing them at a separate site in Le Diamant. In 2019, these corals were transplanted to three locations on the seabed of Sainte-Luce, demonstrating surprising growth patterns despite the site's low to medium environmental quality.
The project's primary aim was to prevent the permanent disappearance of both coral species through spatial replication techniques, including cutting and transplantation. Particular attention was given to enhancing the genetic variability and range of Acropora cervicornis. The initiative also aimed to raise awareness about current coral conservation challenges.
Additionally, the project included a research component that contributed to a better understanding of environmental conservation and the restoration of Acropora cervicornis populations. Unfortunately, a temperature increase at the end of 2023 resulted in the decimation of all corals at the transplant sites. (Ref. 1 -5)
Rio PHX
For thousands of years the Rio Salado, also known as the Salt River, and its larger mainstem, the Gila River, served as an important perennial source of life and growth for indigenous people residing in central Arizona, including the Akimel and Piipaash (3). Today, the Salt River is an ephemeral river corridor connecting diverse urban communities across an expansive and growing Maricopa County (3). While the river is now typically defined by intermittent flow as a function of water conservation and distribution in an arid urban climate, it also has powerful flows during the Arizona monsoon season providing a diverse and unique ecosystem for the region (3). To foster the health of the River, a regional multi-decade project was initiated in 2018 called Rio Reimagined, which includes six cities and two tribal communities (1). Rio Reimagined is a planning initiative in a very early concept stage, centered around the mission to support and enhance this treasured river corridor (3). The goals of Rio Reimagined consist of connecting communities, Equitable & Sustainable Development, and Restoring and Revitalizing Healthy Rivers (3). As part of the Rio Reimagined, the City of Phoenix founded a collaborative project called Rio PHX that will help promote a 20-mile Rio Salado (Salt River) corridor as a local and regional destination that attracts positive investment for the benefit of existing/future businesses, residents, and tourists (1). The final aim with this project is to improve health outcomes for existing and future residents by address outstanding needs in the area and create opportunities for housing, employment, recreation, art, and ecological restoration (1). From May 2024 to May 2025 Rio PHX will engage in creating a community profile, an existing conditions assessment, community engagement & visioning, developing implementation strategies and drafting the master plan (1). Public hearings and final plan adoption are set to take place in fall 2025 (1).
Bee Park in Montentargius
The Bee Park Molentargius is a project located in the Molentargius-Saline Regional Natural Park, in Cagliari. It is part of a broader effort to regenerate abandoned and underutilised urban spaces, transforming them into areas that support biodiversity, promote sustainability, and engage the local community in environmental stewardship (3,4). The primary goal of the Bee Park Molentargius project is to restore specific areas of the Molentargius Park to their original ecological and productive functions. It aims to enhance biodiversity, support sustainable agricultural practices, and promote environmental education. The project includes the creation of shared gardens and an educational apiary, designed to reclaim the park’s identity and encourage local participation in the management and preservation of this important natural resource (1,3). It was developed with financial support from the Autonomous Region of Sardinia and the European Union's Horizon Europe Framework Programme. Inaugurated in March 2024, the project is a collaborative initiative involving local citizens, institutions, and park beneficiaries. It includes various educational components, such as beekeeping and olive growing training courses, along with sensory analysis workshops for honey and olive oil. These activities are intended to educate the public while fostering a sense of community ownership and responsibility toward the park (1,2). The project indirectly addresses environmental hazards related to the degradation of urban green spaces and loss of biodiversity. By restoring the park’s natural and productive functions, the Bee Park Molentargius helps mitigate risks associated with urbanisation, such as habitat loss and the decline of pollinator populations, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and food security (3)
