Historical and natural heritage park
Located in the municipality of Morne Rouge, the Domaine d’Émeraude was once an agricultural site but was transferred to the Martinique Regional Natural Park (PNRM) in the early 2000s. It underwent significant renovations in 2005 to transform it into a sanctuary for Martinican biodiversity, reflecting the need to protect and conserve the island's unique ecosystems. In 2011, it opened its doors to the public, serving as an important educational resource that raises awareness about the island's historical, natural, and cultural heritage (Refs 4, 7, 8).
Today, the site encompasses 25 hectares protected from anthropogenic pressures and is primarily characterized by a humid tropical forest environment, which makes up 80% of the area (Ref 7). It is home to over a hundred native species (Ref 4) and offers nearly 4 kilometers of walking trails accessible to both adults and children, complete with recreational stops and educational amenities.
The Domaine d’Émeraude was designed to enhance the conservation of native species while developing sustainable economic activities that benefit the local community. Moreover, the site emphasizes the well-being that forested areas provide to visitors, highlighting that "the air can be heard, the smells can be savored, and the sounds can be experienced. The freshness of the place is a source of change and relaxation..." (Ref 4).
Today, the site encompasses 25 hectares protected from anthropogenic pressures and is primarily characterized by a humid tropical forest environment, which makes up 80% of the area (Ref 7). It is home to over a hundred native species (Ref 4) and offers nearly 4 kilometers of walking trails accessible to both adults and children, complete with recreational stops and educational amenities.
The Domaine d’Émeraude was designed to enhance the conservation of native species while developing sustainable economic activities that benefit the local community. Moreover, the site emphasizes the well-being that forested areas provide to visitors, highlighting that "the air can be heard, the smells can be savored, and the sounds can be experienced. The freshness of the place is a source of change and relaxation..." (Ref 4).
Sheep grazing in palace garden
In Berlin, at the palace park and garden Charlottenburg, approx. 40 to 70 horned Gotland sheep are used to maintain the grass fields and meadows. The project is part of a garden and landscape conservation programme that is to be seen as a contribution to practical nature conservation by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg, which manages the park. From May to November, the sheep are grazing on the palace property, whereby the exact length of time the sheep are kept and the duration of the project depend largely on the developing weather conditions. This is because prolonged drought significantly reduces the growth of the grasses. (Ref. 1)
The garden had already been grazed earlier in its history, but no longer in the post-war period. The garden was created by Electress Sophie Charlotte in 1695. (Ref. 3) Since 2018, sheep can be found again in the park space where they graze on extensive meadows with groups of chestnut, lime, maple, oak, beech and solitary trees. At the beginning of May, they move into their first station there, usually the meadow in front of the late baroque-classical Belvedere tea house. Once this has been grazed, they move on to the next meadow; with an area of 55 hectares, there is plenty of pasture. (Ref. 4)
Sheep from his flock also graze on the green flat roof of the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Pankow, the palace garden of Sanssouci and other public and private patches of land around Berlin. Reasons to use sheep over machinery for the maintenance of the park space are monetary and a reduce loss of biodiversity. Sheep are cheaper compared to machinery, the needed labour and wear, and also don't kill insects living in the fields as machinery does. Furthermore, the sheep dung fertilises the grass area, sheep limit the spread of invasive plants and are more gentle to the soil. At the same time, palace visitors enjoy observing the sheep and can learn about them in guided tours. (Ref. 4; Ref. 6)
The garden had already been grazed earlier in its history, but no longer in the post-war period. The garden was created by Electress Sophie Charlotte in 1695. (Ref. 3) Since 2018, sheep can be found again in the park space where they graze on extensive meadows with groups of chestnut, lime, maple, oak, beech and solitary trees. At the beginning of May, they move into their first station there, usually the meadow in front of the late baroque-classical Belvedere tea house. Once this has been grazed, they move on to the next meadow; with an area of 55 hectares, there is plenty of pasture. (Ref. 4)
Sheep from his flock also graze on the green flat roof of the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Pankow, the palace garden of Sanssouci and other public and private patches of land around Berlin. Reasons to use sheep over machinery for the maintenance of the park space are monetary and a reduce loss of biodiversity. Sheep are cheaper compared to machinery, the needed labour and wear, and also don't kill insects living in the fields as machinery does. Furthermore, the sheep dung fertilises the grass area, sheep limit the spread of invasive plants and are more gentle to the soil. At the same time, palace visitors enjoy observing the sheep and can learn about them in guided tours. (Ref. 4; Ref. 6)
Sustainable renovation of schoolyard
The schoolyard at Reginhard Primary School in Reinickendorf faced persistent challenges, often becoming unusable due to poor drainage. After rainfall, water would pool, leaving the yard submerged and inaccessible to the 400 primary school pupils. Even in dry weather, the schoolyard was far from ideal: a lack of play equipment made it uninviting, and in summer, the area became excessively hot, offering little comfort or shade. Both children and the school community, including teaching staff and parents, voiced a strong desire for improvement.
Adding to the urgency for redesign, Berliner Wasserbetriebe imposed a discharge restriction, requiring rainwater to be managed on-site. This led to a comprehensive transformation of the school grounds. Large areas were unsealed, allowing water to seep naturally into the ground. Underground seepage systems were installed to enhance drainage, and the redesign introduced green spaces, a school garden, and near-natural play and exercise areas. These changes not only resolved the flooding issue but also created a more inviting and sustainable environment for students.
The focus on ecological and sustainable design improved the microclimate, providing cooler surroundings and enabling outdoor breaks filled with activity and fresh air. The redesign transformed the schoolyard into a vibrant space that meets the needs of both children and the environment.
This project was funded by the Berlin Programme for Sustainable Development (BENE Umwelt) and financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). (Ref. 3; Ref. 4)
Adding to the urgency for redesign, Berliner Wasserbetriebe imposed a discharge restriction, requiring rainwater to be managed on-site. This led to a comprehensive transformation of the school grounds. Large areas were unsealed, allowing water to seep naturally into the ground. Underground seepage systems were installed to enhance drainage, and the redesign introduced green spaces, a school garden, and near-natural play and exercise areas. These changes not only resolved the flooding issue but also created a more inviting and sustainable environment for students.
The focus on ecological and sustainable design improved the microclimate, providing cooler surroundings and enabling outdoor breaks filled with activity and fresh air. The redesign transformed the schoolyard into a vibrant space that meets the needs of both children and the environment.
This project was funded by the Berlin Programme for Sustainable Development (BENE Umwelt) and financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). (Ref. 3; Ref. 4)
The New Headquarters of UN office in Nairobi
Established in 1996, the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) is the UN's official headquarters in Africa, located just 9.7 km from the heart of Nairobi. In line with the UN's global sustainability goals, the office took significant steps to reduce its environmental footprint as it expanded. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), buildings contribute to a third of global energy use and are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions. To address these issues, new buildings were designed to prioritize energy and water efficiency, with a focus on sustainability.
Completed in 2011, the new headquarters reflect the UN's broader commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The design includes 6,000 m² of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient lighting, and natural ventilation, making the complex energy-neutral and water-efficient. It generates as much solar energy as it consumes, supporting over 1,200 staff members. Additionally, the project carefully preserved indigenous trees and created micro-ecosystems within the interior gardens, further aligning with the UN’s environmental mission.
By embedding these green features, the UNON complex serves as a model for sustainable development in urban settings, echoing the UN’s efforts to combat climate change and promote ecological resilience globally. (Ref. 1, 2, 3, 4)
Completed in 2011, the new headquarters reflect the UN's broader commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The design includes 6,000 m² of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient lighting, and natural ventilation, making the complex energy-neutral and water-efficient. It generates as much solar energy as it consumes, supporting over 1,200 staff members. Additionally, the project carefully preserved indigenous trees and created micro-ecosystems within the interior gardens, further aligning with the UN’s environmental mission.
By embedding these green features, the UNON complex serves as a model for sustainable development in urban settings, echoing the UN’s efforts to combat climate change and promote ecological resilience globally. (Ref. 1, 2, 3, 4)
Rehabilitation of Hon. John N. Michuki Memorial Conservation Park
The John Michuki Memorial Park was transformed from a vast dumpsite in 2008 and established in honor of John Michuki, the Environment Minister during the Kibaki administration, in 2012. Michuki garnered admiration and accolades for his enthusiasm and determination to clean and preserve the environment (Ref 1, 2). Situated along the Nairobi River, the park serves as a historically rich recreational facility (Ref 3).
However, several issues arose after the park was transferred to the county administration in 2013 (Ref 2). A section of the Nairobi River flowing through the park experienced severe environmental degradation due to illegal discharges and poor waste management, negatively impacting the riparian ecosystem and biodiversity (Ref 4). Additionally, the park became a refuge for drug users, street children, and thieves, with stray dogs posing safety threats in the area (Ref 1, 2).
As the first project within the Cleaning Up Kenya Campaign, the restoration of Michuki Memorial Park was launched in 2020 by the government (Ref 5). The park is now managed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) following a directive from the national government (ibid.). With funds from the treasury, a perimeter fence was erected, a 2.4 km walkway was constructed, and 4,200 seedlings and 6,357 indigenous trees were planted, along with the establishment of a nursery (Ref 1, 6). A total of 20,000 tons of solid waste were removed (Ref 6). Additionally, a community forest association was formed to ensure community engagement (Ref 2).
However, several issues arose after the park was transferred to the county administration in 2013 (Ref 2). A section of the Nairobi River flowing through the park experienced severe environmental degradation due to illegal discharges and poor waste management, negatively impacting the riparian ecosystem and biodiversity (Ref 4). Additionally, the park became a refuge for drug users, street children, and thieves, with stray dogs posing safety threats in the area (Ref 1, 2).
As the first project within the Cleaning Up Kenya Campaign, the restoration of Michuki Memorial Park was launched in 2020 by the government (Ref 5). The park is now managed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) following a directive from the national government (ibid.). With funds from the treasury, a perimeter fence was erected, a 2.4 km walkway was constructed, and 4,200 seedlings and 6,357 indigenous trees were planted, along with the establishment of a nursery (Ref 1, 6). A total of 20,000 tons of solid waste were removed (Ref 6). Additionally, a community forest association was formed to ensure community engagement (Ref 2).
Urban farm Lak'a Uta
The urban farm of Lak'a Uta is an initiative launched by the NGO Fundación Alternativas, which established the first community garden in Bolivia, located in the city of La Paz at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level (1-3). The initial plan was to develop the garden on private land, but since the goal was to create an open space accessible to all citizens, the project eventually sought a public location (3). The subdistrict of Cotahuma granted them permission to use the Lak'a Uta park, an abandoned area rendered unusable by two landslides in the previous year (3). Through voluntary efforts and an investment of 2,800 euros, the land was transformed over three years to accommodate 40 plots of 16m² each, with individual families cultivating a variety of vegetables (3).
Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the project adheres to many principles of organic agriculture in an urban setting (5). The area has become a biodiversity hotspot, featuring an artificial pond, 16 wild plant species, and 39 fauna species, including 34 bird species, two types of frogs that provide natural pest control, and three bee species (3-5). Compost is produced naturally using waste management practices and worms (4-5). In addition to edible vegetables, the garden produces medicinal plants, some of which help stabilize the soil and prevent further landslides (3-4). The infrastructure also includes a rainwater collection system (3-5).
Originally, the project aimed to improve access to food, particularly in response to the growing urban population (1-3). Over time, it has also fostered a strong sense of community, while promoting urban gardening through educational workshops and disseminating information nationwide (1-5). It is estimated that 20,000 people have been educated on urban agriculture, healthy eating, and reconnecting with nature (5). The project has also contributed to shaping a local government law supporting urban gardening within the municipality (3).
Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the project adheres to many principles of organic agriculture in an urban setting (5). The area has become a biodiversity hotspot, featuring an artificial pond, 16 wild plant species, and 39 fauna species, including 34 bird species, two types of frogs that provide natural pest control, and three bee species (3-5). Compost is produced naturally using waste management practices and worms (4-5). In addition to edible vegetables, the garden produces medicinal plants, some of which help stabilize the soil and prevent further landslides (3-4). The infrastructure also includes a rainwater collection system (3-5).
Originally, the project aimed to improve access to food, particularly in response to the growing urban population (1-3). Over time, it has also fostered a strong sense of community, while promoting urban gardening through educational workshops and disseminating information nationwide (1-5). It is estimated that 20,000 people have been educated on urban agriculture, healthy eating, and reconnecting with nature (5). The project has also contributed to shaping a local government law supporting urban gardening within the municipality (3).
Biotope City Wienerberg
Biotope City Wienerberg is located in the southern part of Vienna on a 5.4-hectare site that once housed a Coca-Cola factory. It lies at the edge of the Wienerberg recreational area, surrounded by business parks and tower blocks to the west and predominantly detached houses to the east (Ref. 1).
The project embodies the concept of an "urban biotope" (Ref. 2), grounded in the principle that nature's mechanisms of self-regeneration are essential for mitigating the challenges of urban living and climate change. By integrating urban and natural spaces, Biotope City fosters both human-nature connections and social interactions through activities like community gardening. The project’s centerpiece is its extensive green infrastructure, including trees and green roofs, which serve to cool the microclimate, purify the air, enhance water retention, and create carbon sinks while providing habitats for local wildlife. These green spaces aim to improve physical health through cooling effects on hot days and support mental well-being with their calming influence (Ref. 1; Ref. 2).
Biotope City encompasses:
Around 980 flats, including 400 subsidized flats and 200 SMART flats
A school, a kindergarten, and 2,000 square meters of children's and youth playgrounds
600 square meters of community gardens and 3,850 square meters of ground-floor gardens
250 trees, 8,900 square meters of meadows, and 13,600 square meters of green roofs
2,200 square meters of façade greening
The inner courtyards and roof areas are designed for gardening, while façades are greened, and balconies are equipped with integrated plant troughs. Even the spaces between buildings are climate-effective, featuring unsealed catchment and seepage areas to manage water sustainably (Ref. 1).
The project’s implementation took 18 years and involved collaboration among various stakeholders. The concept was initiated by the Biotope City Foundation and funded by eight different investors (Ref. 2).
The project embodies the concept of an "urban biotope" (Ref. 2), grounded in the principle that nature's mechanisms of self-regeneration are essential for mitigating the challenges of urban living and climate change. By integrating urban and natural spaces, Biotope City fosters both human-nature connections and social interactions through activities like community gardening. The project’s centerpiece is its extensive green infrastructure, including trees and green roofs, which serve to cool the microclimate, purify the air, enhance water retention, and create carbon sinks while providing habitats for local wildlife. These green spaces aim to improve physical health through cooling effects on hot days and support mental well-being with their calming influence (Ref. 1; Ref. 2).
Biotope City encompasses:
Around 980 flats, including 400 subsidized flats and 200 SMART flats
A school, a kindergarten, and 2,000 square meters of children's and youth playgrounds
600 square meters of community gardens and 3,850 square meters of ground-floor gardens
250 trees, 8,900 square meters of meadows, and 13,600 square meters of green roofs
2,200 square meters of façade greening
The inner courtyards and roof areas are designed for gardening, while façades are greened, and balconies are equipped with integrated plant troughs. Even the spaces between buildings are climate-effective, featuring unsealed catchment and seepage areas to manage water sustainably (Ref. 1).
The project’s implementation took 18 years and involved collaboration among various stakeholders. The concept was initiated by the Biotope City Foundation and funded by eight different investors (Ref. 2).
The Green Rush
The project La Ruée Verte aims to create a green corridor connecting two emblematic locations for social and environmental justice: La Base Marseille and L’Après M. The route spans over 7 km and passes through La Friche de La Belle de Mai and aims to bring more nature into the city on a larger scale in a fair and equitable way (Ref 2).
Given the challenges of climate change—rising temperatures, urban heat islands, fewer trees in Marseille, and increasing urbanization—the green corridor will offer a solution to combat the suffocating effects of the city’s concrete sprawl (Ref 2). Additionally, it aims to reduce pollution peaks and improve air quality (Ref 2), increase biodiversity (Ref 2), and provide access to green spaces and places for social interaction (Ref 2).
The project also addresses the broader social crisis, with rising costs of food, housing, and transportation (Ref 2). Local solidarity is key, ensuring that all green initiatives foster community interaction and consider the urgent needs of residents, such as precarious living conditions and isolation (Ref 2). Collective participation is central to the project, ensuring that it is designed by and for residents of different neighborhoods, reflecting their realities. The project, called “La Ruée Verte,” aims to unite various citizen groups, social centers, and associations to amplify their voices (Ref 2).
The project's first phase, “La Petite Ruée,” will launch in October 2024, following a year of preparation. It will start with neighbourhood micro-projects and shared advocacy, including events and gatherings (Ref 2). The goal is to collectively think about social and climate justice and begin taking concrete actions towards popular ecology in each neighbourhood (Ref 2).
Given the challenges of climate change—rising temperatures, urban heat islands, fewer trees in Marseille, and increasing urbanization—the green corridor will offer a solution to combat the suffocating effects of the city’s concrete sprawl (Ref 2). Additionally, it aims to reduce pollution peaks and improve air quality (Ref 2), increase biodiversity (Ref 2), and provide access to green spaces and places for social interaction (Ref 2).
The project also addresses the broader social crisis, with rising costs of food, housing, and transportation (Ref 2). Local solidarity is key, ensuring that all green initiatives foster community interaction and consider the urgent needs of residents, such as precarious living conditions and isolation (Ref 2). Collective participation is central to the project, ensuring that it is designed by and for residents of different neighborhoods, reflecting their realities. The project, called “La Ruée Verte,” aims to unite various citizen groups, social centers, and associations to amplify their voices (Ref 2).
The project's first phase, “La Petite Ruée,” will launch in October 2024, following a year of preparation. It will start with neighbourhood micro-projects and shared advocacy, including events and gatherings (Ref 2). The goal is to collectively think about social and climate justice and begin taking concrete actions towards popular ecology in each neighbourhood (Ref 2).
Hellenic Park
The Hellenic Park by Farka Lake stands as a symbol of the growing relationship between Albania and Greece (Ref. 1,2,3). The project was designed and implemented by the Municipality of Tirana in partnership with the Greek Embassy and supported by Greek companies operating in Albania. Its inaugurated was attended by the mayors of both capitals and the Greek Ambassador to Albania (Ref. 3,4). The opening ceremony marked three significant milestones: the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution, the 50th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Greece and Albania, and the 40th anniversary of Greece's membership in the European Union (Ref. 4). The park reflects bilateral unity through emblematic vegetation, such as olive trees, which hold cultural significance in both countries. Beyond enhancing diplomatic ties, Hellenic Park fosters inclusive sports and cultural activities and provides a space for recreation (Ref. 1,3,4).
Çukurova Arboretum
The Çukurova Arboretum is located 17 km from the city centre of Adana, close to the Seyhan Dam lake. Established in 1997, it aims to conserve and protect plant species and vegetation from the region and those adapted to the Mediterranean climate (Ref. 2,5). Given its location outside the city centre and its proximity to freshwater resources, the Arboretum has been praised as a refuge for relaxation and recreation away from the stress of the city (Ref. 1,3). The area has been established by the Regional Forest Directorate of Adana in cooperation with the Istanbul University, department of Forestry (Ref. 2,3). In 2011 and 2013 new infrastructure was added to the arboretum, including a nursery, main road network connection and irrigation (Ref. 2). Visitors and researchers can access over 1050 ha hosting more than 700 plant taxa in different thematic areas, such as mediterranean vegetation, rose gardens, succulent and cactus areas, medicinal and aromatic plant gardens and an aquatic plants exhibition center which is a special feature to the site (Ref. 2). For research specifically, laboratory projects have been established and nurseries continue to ensure the supply of plant material (Ref.1). Over the years, the Arboretum has been equipped with more elaborate infrastructure and exhebition sites as well as educational material available to visitors (Ref.1,2,4).
