Urban regeneration of Silk District
The Silk District is a real estate project by Prime Kapital in partnership with MAS P.L.C., integrating green spaces into its urban design (1-10). It focuses on regenerating a brownfield site, an abandoned industrial area left undeveloped in one of Iasi's neighborhoods (1). The project aims to revitalize the area, improving its aesthetics, reducing pollution, and repurposing it into a commercial and residential space (1). A key feature of the project is the incorporation of green spaces throughout its design (1).
The development spans 101,000 square meters, with 40,500 square meters (combined) dedicated to green spaces and "car-free" open areas (1, 2, 6, p.2). These green elements are designed to offer spaces for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction, while also contributing to environmental benefits such as air filtration, temperature regulation, rainwater drainage, and soil erosion prevention, all promoting better health for residents (1, 2, 4, 6, p.12). The landscape design includes “green islands” and vegetation-covered roofs for parking structures (4).
Launched in 2021 after receiving municipal approval, the project is ongoing and has already made significant progress, with over 10,000 perennial plants and 401 trees planted (4, 9). Upon completion, the landscape will feature 7,100 square meters of perennials, 3,000 square meters of shrubs, and an urban forest containing 2,400 trees (6, p.12).
The total investment in the project is €20,000,000 (7). In 2024, one of the completed office buildings earned a BREEAM green certification, achieving one of the highest possible scores, in collaboration with the consulting firm BuildGreen (5, 8). The landscape design was carried out by the architectural firm Beros Abdul+ (4). Before receiving approval, the project was opened for public consultation, and an independent online survey showed strong support from the community (15, 16).
The development spans 101,000 square meters, with 40,500 square meters (combined) dedicated to green spaces and "car-free" open areas (1, 2, 6, p.2). These green elements are designed to offer spaces for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction, while also contributing to environmental benefits such as air filtration, temperature regulation, rainwater drainage, and soil erosion prevention, all promoting better health for residents (1, 2, 4, 6, p.12). The landscape design includes “green islands” and vegetation-covered roofs for parking structures (4).
Launched in 2021 after receiving municipal approval, the project is ongoing and has already made significant progress, with over 10,000 perennial plants and 401 trees planted (4, 9). Upon completion, the landscape will feature 7,100 square meters of perennials, 3,000 square meters of shrubs, and an urban forest containing 2,400 trees (6, p.12).
The total investment in the project is €20,000,000 (7). In 2024, one of the completed office buildings earned a BREEAM green certification, achieving one of the highest possible scores, in collaboration with the consulting firm BuildGreen (5, 8). The landscape design was carried out by the architectural firm Beros Abdul+ (4). Before receiving approval, the project was opened for public consultation, and an independent online survey showed strong support from the community (15, 16).
Tempelhofer Field
Tempelhofer Feld stands as an innovative green solution in the heart of Berlin, addressing several issues of environmental justice, biodiversity, and urban resilience. Within the S-Bahn ring, only one in 20 residents lives in areas well-served by green spaces, and districts like Neukölln, Kreuzberg, and Tempelhof would face even greater scarcity without this vast expanse. Many residents in these neighborhoods lack access to private green spaces such as gardens or balconies. Without nearby parks, people are compelled to travel to other districts, exacerbating the congestion of green spaces and increasing local traffic.
Since its opening in 2010, Tempelhofer Feld has provided Berlin with over 300 hectares of open, green, leisure, and recreational space, making it one of the largest urban open spaces globally. Once the site of bustling air traffic, it is now a sanctuary for activities such as skating, strolling, gardening, picnicking, birdwatching, kiteboarding, and more. These wide-ranging uses showcase its transformation into an accessible, multifunctional green space that serves as a social equalizer, particularly for disadvantaged neighborhoods, a significance amplified during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The field is not just a recreational haven but also a vital ecological refuge. With over two-thirds of its area designated as green space, it hosts diverse ecosystems, including extensive natural meadows, lawns, and protected habitats for birds and other species. Certain areas are closed to the public to preserve these sensitive environments, emphasizing the balance between human activity and ecological conservation. Since 2019, animal landscape keepers, including around 100 resident sheep, have contributed to sustainable land management practices, promoting biodiversity and ecological health (Ref. 2).
Managed collaboratively by political, administrative, and societal actors, the site exemplifies integrated citizen participation in urban planning. (Ref. 3)
Since its opening in 2010, Tempelhofer Feld has provided Berlin with over 300 hectares of open, green, leisure, and recreational space, making it one of the largest urban open spaces globally. Once the site of bustling air traffic, it is now a sanctuary for activities such as skating, strolling, gardening, picnicking, birdwatching, kiteboarding, and more. These wide-ranging uses showcase its transformation into an accessible, multifunctional green space that serves as a social equalizer, particularly for disadvantaged neighborhoods, a significance amplified during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The field is not just a recreational haven but also a vital ecological refuge. With over two-thirds of its area designated as green space, it hosts diverse ecosystems, including extensive natural meadows, lawns, and protected habitats for birds and other species. Certain areas are closed to the public to preserve these sensitive environments, emphasizing the balance between human activity and ecological conservation. Since 2019, animal landscape keepers, including around 100 resident sheep, have contributed to sustainable land management practices, promoting biodiversity and ecological health (Ref. 2).
Managed collaboratively by political, administrative, and societal actors, the site exemplifies integrated citizen participation in urban planning. (Ref. 3)
Medicinal and food plant nursery
The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population in developing countries use medicinal plants for health prevention and care, primarily in rural areas (3). These plant species have therapeutic potential in treating various diseases, and they are considered safe and effective medications with fewer side effects and affordable prices (3). In Peru, medicinal plants have historically been used to treat respiratory, gastrointestinal, and digestive ailments. To this day, they continue to be used by both native and urban communities (3).
To promote, develop, and encourage research, innovation, and technologies related to the use, preservation, conservation, and employment of medicinal and food plants, the National Center for Social and Intercultural Research in Health (CENSI) of the National Institute of Health (INS) has inaugurated its medicinal and food plant nursery located in one of its facilities (Chorrillos) in Lima (1, 3). The primary objective of this project is to adapt various species from the coast, mountains, and jungle of the country and initiate a plant production program that contributes to improving public health, environmental quality and the revitalization of the ancestral knowledge of indigenous, Amazonian, Andean, and Afro-Peruvian communities (1). Additionally, it aims to contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change by creating green areas, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels through plant photosynthesis, improving soil quality, and promoting the responsible use of water resources, among others (3).
For the development of this project, the INS is working in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration to benefit not only the health and well-being of the Peruvian community but also promote the integration and care of the migrant population in the country (2).
To promote, develop, and encourage research, innovation, and technologies related to the use, preservation, conservation, and employment of medicinal and food plants, the National Center for Social and Intercultural Research in Health (CENSI) of the National Institute of Health (INS) has inaugurated its medicinal and food plant nursery located in one of its facilities (Chorrillos) in Lima (1, 3). The primary objective of this project is to adapt various species from the coast, mountains, and jungle of the country and initiate a plant production program that contributes to improving public health, environmental quality and the revitalization of the ancestral knowledge of indigenous, Amazonian, Andean, and Afro-Peruvian communities (1). Additionally, it aims to contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change by creating green areas, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels through plant photosynthesis, improving soil quality, and promoting the responsible use of water resources, among others (3).
For the development of this project, the INS is working in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration to benefit not only the health and well-being of the Peruvian community but also promote the integration and care of the migrant population in the country (2).
Park in Wrzeszcz
A new addition has enriched Gdańsk's green spaces: the park at Szubieniczna Mountain near the Gdańsk University of Technology. This area, located behind the cutting-edge STOS building housing the "Kraken" supercomputer, has been transformed into a vibrant urban oasis. Covering approximately 7,500 square meters and costing 3.5 million zlotys, the park introduces a sustainable and welcoming environment for students, residents, and visitors alike.
The park aligns with the university's PG Climate Plan, a strategic initiative promoting environmental sustainability through research, education, and green infrastructure. Historically a neglected area with overgrown trees and bushes, it has now been revitalized to create a functional and aesthetic space that merges ecological values with public utility.
Key features of the park include over 1,500 new plantings—trees, shrubs, and flowers—that enhance biodiversity and create a visually appealing landscape. Ecological innovations such as a rain garden and energy-efficient lighting reflect the park's commitment to sustainability. Recreational and educational facilities include a mini amphitheater, an outdoor gym, and walking paths interspersed with gravel squares surrounded by flower meadows.
A new pathway connects the campus to Szubieniczna Hill, granting access to Gdańsk's largest water reservoir and offering stunning panoramic views. This transformation underscores how urban green spaces can address climate challenges while improving quality of life for the community. The Szubieniczna Mountain Park is not just a park—it’s a symbol of progress toward a greener future for Gdańsk. (1-2)
The park aligns with the university's PG Climate Plan, a strategic initiative promoting environmental sustainability through research, education, and green infrastructure. Historically a neglected area with overgrown trees and bushes, it has now been revitalized to create a functional and aesthetic space that merges ecological values with public utility.
Key features of the park include over 1,500 new plantings—trees, shrubs, and flowers—that enhance biodiversity and create a visually appealing landscape. Ecological innovations such as a rain garden and energy-efficient lighting reflect the park's commitment to sustainability. Recreational and educational facilities include a mini amphitheater, an outdoor gym, and walking paths interspersed with gravel squares surrounded by flower meadows.
A new pathway connects the campus to Szubieniczna Hill, granting access to Gdańsk's largest water reservoir and offering stunning panoramic views. This transformation underscores how urban green spaces can address climate challenges while improving quality of life for the community. The Szubieniczna Mountain Park is not just a park—it’s a symbol of progress toward a greener future for Gdańsk. (1-2)
The Lower Salt River Restoration Project
The Lower Salt River Restoration Project (LSRRP) is a riparian restoration initiative located along the Lower Salt River within the Mesa Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. This collaborative project seeks to restore a section of the Lower Salt River Recreation Area that was severely impacted by the 2017 Cactus Fire. The Cactus Fire was a significant wildfire that caused extensive damage to vegetation and habitat in the area, highlighting the need for targeted restoration efforts to rebuild the ecosystem and mitigate future fire risks.
The LSRRP’s primary activities focus on removing invasive tamarisk trees, which are highly flammable and contribute to the intensity of wildfires, and planting native seedlings to reestablish local flora. By removing tamarisk trees, the project aims to create a landscape that is more resistant to fire, reducing the wildfire risk for the region. Additionally, the project supports the abundance and diversity of native plant species by removing invasive plants and planting thousands of native riparian tree species.
The restoration efforts also aim to enhance the riparian habitat by expanding two critical vegetation communities—the mesquite bosque and the cottonwood-willow gallery forest. These communities support rich biodiversity and offer essential habitats for local wildlife.
Beyond ecological restoration, the project emphasizes community involvement and awareness. It provides opportunities for the local community to participate in the project through environmental education events for K-12 students and ongoing volunteer involvement in monitoring and maintaining restored areas.
Overall, the Lower Salt River Restoration Project is a proactive effort to protect and revitalize the Lower Salt River Recreation Area, enhancing its ecological resilience and engaging the community in long-term conservation. (2-4, 6, 8, 11)
The LSRRP’s primary activities focus on removing invasive tamarisk trees, which are highly flammable and contribute to the intensity of wildfires, and planting native seedlings to reestablish local flora. By removing tamarisk trees, the project aims to create a landscape that is more resistant to fire, reducing the wildfire risk for the region. Additionally, the project supports the abundance and diversity of native plant species by removing invasive plants and planting thousands of native riparian tree species.
The restoration efforts also aim to enhance the riparian habitat by expanding two critical vegetation communities—the mesquite bosque and the cottonwood-willow gallery forest. These communities support rich biodiversity and offer essential habitats for local wildlife.
Beyond ecological restoration, the project emphasizes community involvement and awareness. It provides opportunities for the local community to participate in the project through environmental education events for K-12 students and ongoing volunteer involvement in monitoring and maintaining restored areas.
Overall, the Lower Salt River Restoration Project is a proactive effort to protect and revitalize the Lower Salt River Recreation Area, enhancing its ecological resilience and engaging the community in long-term conservation. (2-4, 6, 8, 11)
Green Corridor Südpanke
The Green Corridor Südpanke is a transformative restoration project that unveiled 700 meters of the river Südpanke, connecting Invalidenpark and Südpankepark in the heart of Berlin. This initiative, part of Berlin's broader mission to restore the Panke River, was spearheaded by the state of Berlin with a focus on ecological restoration, biodiversity enhancement, microclimate cooling, and creating recreational spaces to improve the quality of life for residents (Ref. 2; Ref. 3).
Historically, the river in this area was channeled underground. The project brought the Südpanke back to the surface, integrating ecological principles and landscape planning into the design. The restored section of the river now flows openly in a natural watercourse bed, making it accessible to the public (Ref. 5). The restoration was completed in 2021, transforming the area with features such as playgrounds, lawns, benches, and a continuous biking and walking path that weaves through the green spaces.
Work on the project began in 2010 but was interrupted by the construction of the neighboring headquarters of the Federal Intelligence Service. As a result, parts of the green corridor were opened to the public in 2012, with the full restoration completed nearly a decade later, in 2021 (Ref. 3; Ref. 6).
The project established a seamless connection for cyclists and pedestrians from Invalidenpark in the south to Südpankepark in the north. The new open water section cools the microclimate in Berlin's densely built-up center while providing a critical habitat for plants and animals. Embankments and meadows near the Federal Intelligence Service's property support wild bees and other pollinators, fostering biodiversity. The Green Corridor Südpanke is a vibrant example of how urban ecological restoration can contribute to sustainability, quality of life, and resilience in a growing city. (Ref. 2)
Historically, the river in this area was channeled underground. The project brought the Südpanke back to the surface, integrating ecological principles and landscape planning into the design. The restored section of the river now flows openly in a natural watercourse bed, making it accessible to the public (Ref. 5). The restoration was completed in 2021, transforming the area with features such as playgrounds, lawns, benches, and a continuous biking and walking path that weaves through the green spaces.
Work on the project began in 2010 but was interrupted by the construction of the neighboring headquarters of the Federal Intelligence Service. As a result, parts of the green corridor were opened to the public in 2012, with the full restoration completed nearly a decade later, in 2021 (Ref. 3; Ref. 6).
The project established a seamless connection for cyclists and pedestrians from Invalidenpark in the south to Südpankepark in the north. The new open water section cools the microclimate in Berlin's densely built-up center while providing a critical habitat for plants and animals. Embankments and meadows near the Federal Intelligence Service's property support wild bees and other pollinators, fostering biodiversity. The Green Corridor Südpanke is a vibrant example of how urban ecological restoration can contribute to sustainability, quality of life, and resilience in a growing city. (Ref. 2)
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).
Brookley by the Bay
Brookley by the Bay is a 98-acre new waterfront park project along Mobile Bay's western shore (Ref 1). The park aims to reconnect people with the Mobile waterfront and coastal ecosystem (Ref 2). The area, once an abundant mosaic of tidal marshes, forested wetlands, and shallow lagoons, became a port, leading residents to lose contact with the natural landscape (Ref 2).
The park serves both recreational and environmental purposes, aiming to create and restore areas that enhance habitat resilience and allow coastal ecosystems to thrive (Ref 1). It features sports facilities, including kayaking, volleyball, golf, and biking, along with social gathering and educational spaces such as an amphitheatre lawn, a performance pavilion, and picnic tables (Ref 3, Images 1-3). The park provides safe and equitable access for all Mobile residents to nature, beaches, tree canopies, open fields, and varied shorelines, all connected by pedestrian and bike lanes (Ref 2). The project also focuses on habitat enhancement and restoration for biodiversity (Ref 3, Images 1 & 4), as well as flood protection through shoreline get-downs, vegetated edges (Image 4), and undulating berms and swales that serve as a layered protection system against stormwater and coastal flooding (Ref 2).
The development of Brookley by the Bay was guided by input from over 300 community members (Ref 1), local stakeholder organizations, and project partners, with the goal of establishing a more resilient, accessible, and enduring space for generations to come (Ref 2).
The park serves both recreational and environmental purposes, aiming to create and restore areas that enhance habitat resilience and allow coastal ecosystems to thrive (Ref 1). It features sports facilities, including kayaking, volleyball, golf, and biking, along with social gathering and educational spaces such as an amphitheatre lawn, a performance pavilion, and picnic tables (Ref 3, Images 1-3). The park provides safe and equitable access for all Mobile residents to nature, beaches, tree canopies, open fields, and varied shorelines, all connected by pedestrian and bike lanes (Ref 2). The project also focuses on habitat enhancement and restoration for biodiversity (Ref 3, Images 1 & 4), as well as flood protection through shoreline get-downs, vegetated edges (Image 4), and undulating berms and swales that serve as a layered protection system against stormwater and coastal flooding (Ref 2).
The development of Brookley by the Bay was guided by input from over 300 community members (Ref 1), local stakeholder organizations, and project partners, with the goal of establishing a more resilient, accessible, and enduring space for generations to come (Ref 2).
FoodLink Food transition network
FoodLink, a network for food transition in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (LMA), aims to create sustainable, competitive, and resilient agri-food systems closely integrated with regional and local spatial planning. The network's goals are to promote food security, economic and energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and socio-territorial cohesion by 2030. The network seeks to ensure that by 2030, 15% of the metropolitan area's food supply is secured locally through sustainable production methods, innovative solutions in water management, soil conservation, climate adaptation, and low-carbon distribution networks involving community gardens, urban allotments, and agricultural spaces within the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. (Ref 2)
