Trees Plan
The "Plan Arbre" is a tool for ecological planning and renaturation aiming to plant 308,000 trees between 2023 and 2029, sourced from the municipal nursery with seeds purchased from local suppliers (Ref 1, Ref 2). In 2023, 14,922 trees were planted, with plans to double this number in 2024 (Ref 1). The project addresses the loss of 50% of Marseille's natural spaces over the past 75 years, aiming to reverse this trend and reintroduce nature into the urban environment (Ref 2). It also tackles issues like drought and heatwaves, particularly in summer, by using trees and shrubs to cool the air, restore biodiversity, reduce air pollution, and enhance public spaces while absorbing CO2 (Ref 2).
The plan is divided into two phases. Phase I focuses on planting in Marseille's 58 parks and 273 squares and gardens, as well as around childcare centres, schools, socio-cultural centres, and sports facilities (Ref 2, Ref 3). From 2020 to 2023, various improvements were made, including playground renovations, installation of misting systems, automatic watering, and the creation of a CrossFit area (Ref 3). Phase II will involve identifying major boulevards, avenues, and streets lacking trees to enhance the urban canopy (Ref 2).
A diverse range of tree species were selected for their drought resistance, water efficiency, and ability to attract biodiversity (Ref 2, Ref 3). The project also focuses on increasing biodiversity and managing invasive species through natural methods to protect trees from pests without chemicals (Ref 3). Furthermore, the initiative includes de-impermeabilizing soils and implementing a smart irrigation system with tensiometric sensors, developed with the start-up GreenCityZen, which has saved 66% of water in two years (Ref 3). The Plan Arbre also promotes citizen participation, with 23 parks selected for community gardening projects, where ten winning associations will receive plants from the municipal nursery (Ref 1).
The plan is divided into two phases. Phase I focuses on planting in Marseille's 58 parks and 273 squares and gardens, as well as around childcare centres, schools, socio-cultural centres, and sports facilities (Ref 2, Ref 3). From 2020 to 2023, various improvements were made, including playground renovations, installation of misting systems, automatic watering, and the creation of a CrossFit area (Ref 3). Phase II will involve identifying major boulevards, avenues, and streets lacking trees to enhance the urban canopy (Ref 2).
A diverse range of tree species were selected for their drought resistance, water efficiency, and ability to attract biodiversity (Ref 2, Ref 3). The project also focuses on increasing biodiversity and managing invasive species through natural methods to protect trees from pests without chemicals (Ref 3). Furthermore, the initiative includes de-impermeabilizing soils and implementing a smart irrigation system with tensiometric sensors, developed with the start-up GreenCityZen, which has saved 66% of water in two years (Ref 3). The Plan Arbre also promotes citizen participation, with 23 parks selected for community gardening projects, where ten winning associations will receive plants from the municipal nursery (Ref 1).
North Bull Island
North Bull Island is a national nature reserve located in Dublin Bay on the north side of Dublin. Supporting both local and migratory wildlife, the area holds several nature conservation designations. It is designated as a special amenity area for its aesthetic and recreational value and forms an integral part of the Dublin Bay Biosphere. The Island, with its 5 km beach located within the capital city and close to the city center, serves as a unique and important public amenity. (1)
The Island is estimated to attract up to 1.4 million visitors annually, including walkers, swimmers, beachgoers, birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, kite-surfers, and various other interest groups from the local area. Additionally, it is a popular destination for schools, universities, and visitors from Ireland and abroad who come to experience accessible examples of ecological succession across nationally and internationally significant habitats, and to learn about the intricate stories that make North Bull Island Nature Reserve central to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and part of a global network of Biosphere Reserves. (1)
The Island and Nature Reserve are managed by the Parks, Biodiversity, and Landscape Services of Dublin City Council in collaboration with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Dublin City Council has prepared an Action Plan for North Bull Island for 2020-2025 to implement the objectives of the North Bull Island Management Plan 2020. The North Bull Island Oversight Forum, which represents a range of stakeholders, monitors the action plan’s implementation (2). The goal is to conserve the island's environmental qualities and scientific significance while balancing its recreational and amenity value for the benefit of the local community and visitors (8).
The Island is estimated to attract up to 1.4 million visitors annually, including walkers, swimmers, beachgoers, birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, kite-surfers, and various other interest groups from the local area. Additionally, it is a popular destination for schools, universities, and visitors from Ireland and abroad who come to experience accessible examples of ecological succession across nationally and internationally significant habitats, and to learn about the intricate stories that make North Bull Island Nature Reserve central to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and part of a global network of Biosphere Reserves. (1)
The Island and Nature Reserve are managed by the Parks, Biodiversity, and Landscape Services of Dublin City Council in collaboration with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Dublin City Council has prepared an Action Plan for North Bull Island for 2020-2025 to implement the objectives of the North Bull Island Management Plan 2020. The North Bull Island Oversight Forum, which represents a range of stakeholders, monitors the action plan’s implementation (2). The goal is to conserve the island's environmental qualities and scientific significance while balancing its recreational and amenity value for the benefit of the local community and visitors (8).
D-Town Farm (DBCFSN)
D-Town Farm, located within Detroit’s River Rouge Park, is a landmark urban agriculture initiative led by the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network (DBCFSN). Since its establishment in 2008, this seven-acre farm—the largest in Detroit—has embodied the organization’s commitment to food sovereignty, justice, and security for the city’s African American community. Each year, the farm cultivates over 30 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs using sustainable and regenerative practices. Key operations include large-scale composting, rainwater retention, solar energy generation, and beekeeping, all of which support its ecological and educational missions.
Beyond production, D-Town Farm serves as a community hub. From May through September, it hosts public events that offer educational and recreational opportunities for children and families. The farm also provides hands-on training for aspiring growers through internships and volunteer programs, fostering community engagement and agricultural skill development. Volunteers play a crucial role in daily operations, with ongoing opportunities available throughout the growing season.
D-Town Farm’s mission extends beyond agriculture, serving as a platform for broader advocacy. By challenging barriers to food access, it addresses food deserts with a focus on empowerment and education. The farm supports the local economy by supplying fresh produce to restaurants, farmers markets, and residents, while its health-focused initiatives, such as the youth-centered Food Warriors Development Program, aim to reduce health disparities within the community.
The DBCFSN’s work at D-Town Farm exemplifies a model of community cooperation and self-determination, promoting equity and justice in the food system. By engaging with both local and broader urban communities, D-Town Farm not only strengthens Detroit’s leadership in urban agriculture but also contributes to food justice movements nationwide.
(Ref.1,2,3,4)
Beyond production, D-Town Farm serves as a community hub. From May through September, it hosts public events that offer educational and recreational opportunities for children and families. The farm also provides hands-on training for aspiring growers through internships and volunteer programs, fostering community engagement and agricultural skill development. Volunteers play a crucial role in daily operations, with ongoing opportunities available throughout the growing season.
D-Town Farm’s mission extends beyond agriculture, serving as a platform for broader advocacy. By challenging barriers to food access, it addresses food deserts with a focus on empowerment and education. The farm supports the local economy by supplying fresh produce to restaurants, farmers markets, and residents, while its health-focused initiatives, such as the youth-centered Food Warriors Development Program, aim to reduce health disparities within the community.
The DBCFSN’s work at D-Town Farm exemplifies a model of community cooperation and self-determination, promoting equity and justice in the food system. By engaging with both local and broader urban communities, D-Town Farm not only strengthens Detroit’s leadership in urban agriculture but also contributes to food justice movements nationwide.
(Ref.1,2,3,4)
Adana Urban Park
The Adana Urban Park was created in 2024, replacing an aged sports stadium (Ref. 6). The park, located in a densely populated part of the city, was designed to enable access to a place for socializing and recreation in the city centre (Ref. 1,2,5). Especially families, youth, and the elderly will benefit from the installed amenities - they include a large public coffeehouse of about 850m², diverse playgrounds, walking, running and cycling paths, as well as several gardens hosting orchards, aromatic plants and other local vegetation (Ref. 1,3,4,5). The park has a total area of ca. 4.8 ha and was approved by the Government of Türkiye - Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change (Ref. 3,6). Beyond its social benefits, Adana Urban Park is expected to aid in alleviating the pressure of air pollution in the city (Ref. 4).
Rings Park
The "Parco degli Anelli" is a new green space project in Cagliari, located along the waterfront in the Sant'Elia district. Designed by Portuguese landscape architect João Ferreira Nunes and inaugurated in 2019, the park spans approximately 15 hectares, with over 4 hectares currently accessible to the public. The remaining area will undergo renovation in the next two phases of the project. The park is notable for its open design, free of walls and fences, and its direct access to the sea, making it a unique addition to the city's green spaces (Refs. 1, 2 & 7).
This park exemplifies urban renewal by transforming a previously neglected and degraded area into a green, accessible to all public space. It is part of a broader context of redevelopment of peripheral neighborhoods, in this case the Sant'Elia district.(Refs. 6 & 9).
Parco degli Anelli features flat terrain with numerous pedestrian and cycling paths for individual sports activities, along with expansive grassy areas covering about 27,000 square meters. The park is surrounded by approximately 500 newly planted trees and shrubs typical of Mediterranean maquis, including Aleppo pine, dwarf palm, European olive, and jacaranda.
Future plans for the park include expanding into additional areas and connecting it to the rest of the city via a pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Palma Canal, as well as connecting it to the new waterfront promenade that is being built from Via Roma to Marina Piccola (Refs. 1, 2 & 7).
This park exemplifies urban renewal by transforming a previously neglected and degraded area into a green, accessible to all public space. It is part of a broader context of redevelopment of peripheral neighborhoods, in this case the Sant'Elia district.(Refs. 6 & 9).
Parco degli Anelli features flat terrain with numerous pedestrian and cycling paths for individual sports activities, along with expansive grassy areas covering about 27,000 square meters. The park is surrounded by approximately 500 newly planted trees and shrubs typical of Mediterranean maquis, including Aleppo pine, dwarf palm, European olive, and jacaranda.
Future plans for the park include expanding into additional areas and connecting it to the rest of the city via a pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Palma Canal, as well as connecting it to the new waterfront promenade that is being built from Via Roma to Marina Piccola (Refs. 1, 2 & 7).
Horpaz-Ezăreni Park
The Horpaz-Ezareni Park is an initiative driven by civil society, requesting the municipality of Miroslava to construct a natural park adjacent to Lake Ezareni. The aim is to protect its green spaces and aquatic bird species while addressing waste management in the area. The petition also called for more green spaces in line with European standards and sought to tackle the challenges of rapid urbanization in peri-urban areas. It collected hundreds of signatures and targeted an area of 20 hectares.
In response, the municipality agreed to the petition and initially proposed creating a park covering 4 hectares in 2022. This first plan was released to the public for consultation. However, the project has since evolved to encompass the original 20 hectares, plus an additional 2 hectares, with an estimated project cost of 11,000,000 euros and a timeline of 3 years for implementation.
The park's design includes various facilities and amenities aimed at enhancing opportunities for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. Accessible paths for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as a parking lot, are also part of the plan. Additionally, two buildings are proposed for sanitary and administrative purposes, which would manage the projected installations of a lighting system, Wi-Fi, and surveillance cameras.
Environmentally, the project includes plans for managing the lake's banks to remove hydrophilic vegetation that could create an unhealthy environment, along with the construction of two bridges. The wilderness areas will be managed, and dendrological plants will be introduced to improve the ecosystem's quality. Overall, the project aims to increase and regenerate green spaces in the commune, enhancing the quality of life for residents and improving the area's aesthetic appeal. (1-8)
In response, the municipality agreed to the petition and initially proposed creating a park covering 4 hectares in 2022. This first plan was released to the public for consultation. However, the project has since evolved to encompass the original 20 hectares, plus an additional 2 hectares, with an estimated project cost of 11,000,000 euros and a timeline of 3 years for implementation.
The park's design includes various facilities and amenities aimed at enhancing opportunities for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. Accessible paths for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as a parking lot, are also part of the plan. Additionally, two buildings are proposed for sanitary and administrative purposes, which would manage the projected installations of a lighting system, Wi-Fi, and surveillance cameras.
Environmentally, the project includes plans for managing the lake's banks to remove hydrophilic vegetation that could create an unhealthy environment, along with the construction of two bridges. The wilderness areas will be managed, and dendrological plants will be introduced to improve the ecosystem's quality. Overall, the project aims to increase and regenerate green spaces in the commune, enhancing the quality of life for residents and improving the area's aesthetic appeal. (1-8)
Filter Ecosystem in Molentargius
The Filter Ecosystem project, completed in 2007, aims to improve water quality and enhance the ecological health of the Molentargius wetland area in Sardinia, Italy, also known as the Molentargius Saline Regional Nature Park. This diverse territory includes freshwater basins such as Bellarosa Minore and Perdalonga, saline water basins like Bellarosa Maggiore and Stagno di Quartu, and the predominantly dry area known as Is Arenas.
The Molentargius ecosystem is a crucial European site for various aquatic birds and features diverse flora, including endemic species and endangered plants on the "Red List." It is one of the few globally recognized wetlands of international importance for aquatic birds located entirely within a large urban center, protected as a biotope by the RAMSAR Convention in Sardinia's major urban area. Since the 1980s, it has suffered environmental degradation due to inadequate infrastructure for wastewater management and human pressures.
Implemented by the city of Cagliari, the project employs a phytoremediation technique to supply water to the ponds. This involved constructing a phytoremediation system between the Bellarosa Maggiore and Bellarosa Minore ponds, functioning as a surface flow filter ecosystem resembling a marsh or wetland.
The system enhances natural self-purification processes, promoting prolonged contact between water, organic matter, and plants. This setup creates microhabitats that support microbial flora crucial for purification. The project's primary goal is to treat wastewater from the Is Arenas treatment plant, ensuring that the treated water meets optimal conditions for sustaining the wetlands' biodiversity. Additionally, the project will expand reed bed areas, vital habitats for avian species, and is designed to purify up to 300 liters of water per second to meet the area's needs (Refs. 1, 2, 3).
The Molentargius ecosystem is a crucial European site for various aquatic birds and features diverse flora, including endemic species and endangered plants on the "Red List." It is one of the few globally recognized wetlands of international importance for aquatic birds located entirely within a large urban center, protected as a biotope by the RAMSAR Convention in Sardinia's major urban area. Since the 1980s, it has suffered environmental degradation due to inadequate infrastructure for wastewater management and human pressures.
Implemented by the city of Cagliari, the project employs a phytoremediation technique to supply water to the ponds. This involved constructing a phytoremediation system between the Bellarosa Maggiore and Bellarosa Minore ponds, functioning as a surface flow filter ecosystem resembling a marsh or wetland.
The system enhances natural self-purification processes, promoting prolonged contact between water, organic matter, and plants. This setup creates microhabitats that support microbial flora crucial for purification. The project's primary goal is to treat wastewater from the Is Arenas treatment plant, ensuring that the treated water meets optimal conditions for sustaining the wetlands' biodiversity. Additionally, the project will expand reed bed areas, vital habitats for avian species, and is designed to purify up to 300 liters of water per second to meet the area's needs (Refs. 1, 2, 3).
Green Area - Via Eroi d'Italia
The project, implemented by the municipality of Cagliari, involves the creation of a new garden in 2021 on Via Eroi d’Italia, in the Pirri municipality, located about 5 km from the center of Cagliari. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reclaim degraded urban green spaces. The garden spans approximately 900 square meters and was previously an unused lot serving as a parking area. Its transformation required substantial groundwork, including soil scarification and leveling, to prepare the area for its new purpose. The garden is now enclosed, with pedestrian access via two gates leading to a paved walkway.
Inside, the garden is divided into two main sections: a children's play area and a landscaped green space. The play area covers about 100 square meters and features durable artificial grass, swings, a spring toy, a universally accessible table, a children's table, benches, and a multi-compartment recycling bin. The green space, approximately 200 square meters, is planted with low-water-use grass and surrounded by drought-resistant plants like albizia, oleander, and lantana, chosen for their low water consumption and resilience to environmental stress. An underground irrigation system, linked to a 5,000-liter water tank, ensures efficient water use.
The remaining 600 sqm outside forms a parking area with 1 disabled space, 2 motorcycle spaces, 1 bicycle rack, and 15 car spaces.
The garden also incorporates sustainable elements, such as LED lighting for energy efficiency and a mural by renowned Sardinian artist Manu Invisible, depicting sunlit forest undergrowth in shades of green. This project responds to citizens' requests and prioritizes resource efficiency by reducing hazardous substances and minimizing waste. The materials used, including recycled plastics, and the selection of plants were chosen to match local ecological conditions, enhancing the garden's sustainability and reducing its environmental impact (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5).
Inside, the garden is divided into two main sections: a children's play area and a landscaped green space. The play area covers about 100 square meters and features durable artificial grass, swings, a spring toy, a universally accessible table, a children's table, benches, and a multi-compartment recycling bin. The green space, approximately 200 square meters, is planted with low-water-use grass and surrounded by drought-resistant plants like albizia, oleander, and lantana, chosen for their low water consumption and resilience to environmental stress. An underground irrigation system, linked to a 5,000-liter water tank, ensures efficient water use.
The remaining 600 sqm outside forms a parking area with 1 disabled space, 2 motorcycle spaces, 1 bicycle rack, and 15 car spaces.
The garden also incorporates sustainable elements, such as LED lighting for energy efficiency and a mural by renowned Sardinian artist Manu Invisible, depicting sunlit forest undergrowth in shades of green. This project responds to citizens' requests and prioritizes resource efficiency by reducing hazardous substances and minimizing waste. The materials used, including recycled plastics, and the selection of plants were chosen to match local ecological conditions, enhancing the garden's sustainability and reducing its environmental impact (Refs. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5).
Dollymount Strand Ectocarpus
Coastal erosion is a well-known consequence of climate change, driven by rising sea levels, extreme storms, and powerful coastal surges. Dollymount Strand, a popular spot for bathing and water sports in Dublin, is particularly vulnerable. Located on North Bull Island and managed by Dublin City Council, the area is part of several protected zones, including a Special Area of Amenity, a Special Area of Conservation, a Special Protection Area, a Ramsar Wetland, a Natura 2000 site, and the UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere. To help mitigate this issue, Dublin City Council has implemented a solution that works with, rather than against, natural processes.
During late summer and autumn—particularly following high tides, warm weather, and storms—a type of seaweed called Ectocarpus siliculosis naturally accumulates along Dublin Bay’s beaches. Instead of removing it, the council allows the seaweed to remain, recognizing its essential role in maintaining the beach’s rich biodiversity. Ectocarpus contributes to the health of the coastal ecosystem, supporting marine life and enhancing the natural resilience of Dublin Bay. (1.2)
During late summer and autumn—particularly following high tides, warm weather, and storms—a type of seaweed called Ectocarpus siliculosis naturally accumulates along Dublin Bay’s beaches. Instead of removing it, the council allows the seaweed to remain, recognizing its essential role in maintaining the beach’s rich biodiversity. Ectocarpus contributes to the health of the coastal ecosystem, supporting marine life and enhancing the natural resilience of Dublin Bay. (1.2)
Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park initiative was carried out by the "Gheorghe Asachi" Technical University of Iași in partnership with the Iași Communitarian Foundation, the BorgWagner Fund, and the Municipality of Iași. It involved the rehabilitation of a green space within the university campus. Covering an area of 3,000 square meters, the renovation was based on the winning design from a student competition focused on improving campus spaces.
The park was designed to include facilities for physical exercise (calisthenics equipment), recreation (badminton court and ping-pong table), and social interaction spaces. It also serves as a buffer to reduce noise from the surrounding areas.
The total cost of the project amounted to 121,200 euros, with the university covering infrastructure expenses, the municipality providing the labor for rehabilitation, and the private fund contributing 15,150 euros. The implementation of the design was overseen by the student designer and coordinated by the NGO and the university’s Association of Student Architects.
This initiative is part of a larger urban regeneration project by the university, in collaboration with the municipality and the Communitarian Foundation, where several campus green spaces are being rehabilitated based on student designs. The overarching goal is to enhance students' quality of life and promote healthy lifestyles through the creation of green spaces during their time at the university. (1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 13, p. 92)
The park was designed to include facilities for physical exercise (calisthenics equipment), recreation (badminton court and ping-pong table), and social interaction spaces. It also serves as a buffer to reduce noise from the surrounding areas.
The total cost of the project amounted to 121,200 euros, with the university covering infrastructure expenses, the municipality providing the labor for rehabilitation, and the private fund contributing 15,150 euros. The implementation of the design was overseen by the student designer and coordinated by the NGO and the university’s Association of Student Architects.
This initiative is part of a larger urban regeneration project by the university, in collaboration with the municipality and the Communitarian Foundation, where several campus green spaces are being rehabilitated based on student designs. The overarching goal is to enhance students' quality of life and promote healthy lifestyles through the creation of green spaces during their time at the university. (1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 13, p. 92)
