Health and well-being (SDG 3)

The Tirana Vertical Forest is part of the city's 2030 Master Plan and aims to enhance urban biodiversity and create green spaces through innovative urban design (Ref. 1,2). The project was developed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, the same studio that has designed similar, well-known structures in cities like Milan, Utrecht and Nanjing (Ref. 6). The completion of the 21-floor building is expected in late 2024 and will feature 105 apartments and a commercial ground floor as well as 145 trees and over 3,200 shrubs and bushes which are integrated into the balconies and façade of the project (Ref. 1,2,3). Various Mediterranean plants have been incorporated, including colourful, scented and aromatic types, which harmonize with the local ecosystem. To maximise the space available for green features, a dynamic structure with alternating balconies and full-height windows has been built (Ref. 1,2). Ultimately, the project anticipates improving air quality, reducing noise, and providing insulation. The greenery is expected to capture fine particulate matter and up to 8 tones of Co2 per year while also creating a healthier microclimate for those inside the building (Ref. 1,6).

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).

The "EnRútate por el Ambiente" initiative is a collaborative strategy implemented in Cartagena through a partnership between Ecopetrol, EPA Cartagena, and the Cartagena Refinery. The initiative aims to promote sustainable community development in neighborhoods adjacent to the refinery by addressing key environmental challenges such as pollution and the degradation of water bodies and green spaces. Its overarching objective is to improve quality of life through the promotion of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship (ref 5).
The strategy is structured around three programs. The first component focuses on the management of public spaces for recreation and environmental care. The second, Guardians of the Channels, seeks to empower local residents as promoters of water body conservation within their communities. The third program promotes the engagement of all community members, including schools and educational institutions, through participatory environmental initiatives (ref 1).

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).

Miskolctapolca is a district of Miskolc and features a nature park (which includes a lake, Csonakazo-to) originally planted in the 1920s using the exotic trees and bushes. In 2022 the municipality decided to renovate the area under a EU funded project called "Creating a Green City in Miskolc-Tapolca". The project aimed to establish a modern urban green space focused on active recreation for various age groups, enhancing Miskolc's appeal for tourism.
The renovation included new concrete paving system and updated utilities for the lakes' promenades with a strong emphasis on accessibility ensured smooth mobility throughout the area. The renovation added informative signs detailing local attractions, historical trees, and the park's history. To enhance visitor comfort, a new accessible restroom was constructed. Renovations to the Csonakazo-to lake included removing accumulated silt and reinforcing the shoreline, alongside the addition of new street furniture, lighting, and wooden sunbathing terraces and platforms. The two bridges around the lake were renewed, and the squirrel installation, a favorite among locals, were restored. Furthermore, a square in the park, Kilátó Square was transformed with benches and drinking fountains, creating a welcoming space for relaxation.
Additionally, extensive landscaping was carried out, including the planting of approximately 100 trees, 9,000 shrubs, 18,000 perennial plants, 2,300 annuals, 350 roses, and 6,600 bulbs.
The surrounding park, which had been in disrepair for decades, was thoroughly revitalized, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. This long-overdue renovation significantly enhanced the environment. The construction was carried out by FEDRID Építőipari Kft., starting in spring 2022, and was completed in May 2023 after some delays.
(Ref.1,2,3)

The project to revitalize the Huveaune River and its biodiversity is taking place in Aubagne, a city within the Marseille Metropolitan area. For a long time, the river received little attention, constrained by urbanization, and was even covered for several hundred meters. Urbanization and the construction of a road have made the floodplain more susceptible to flooding (Ref 2). The initiative aims not only to restore the Huveaune and its environment but also to strengthen the connection between residents and the river (Ref 1) while reducing flood risk as a critical objective (Ref 1).
The challenge is transforming the area into a higher-quality environmental space with resilient ecosystems. A diagnostic conducted during the project's design phase revealed the site's degraded state, including the presence of invasive species, steep banks unsuitable for riparian vegetation, poor waterway conservation, and disrupted ecological continuity (Ref 2).
Key actions include revitalizing the river and its biodiversity, removing artificial banks, and creating new meanders to give the river a more natural shape. Diversifying flow patterns will create habitats for aquatic and fish species by varying water heights and flow speeds. This involves increasing the river's sinuosity and varying the width of the minor riverbed (Ref 2). Additional steps include planting trees and shrubs adapted to the Mediterranean climate with low water needs (Ref 2). To bring residents closer to the river, plans include creating walking and cycling routes, sports equipment, educational panels, and useful visitor facilities such as benches, water points, and restrooms (Ref 3).

The Urban Oasis Playgrounds project focuses on creating a guide for green regeneration of playgrounds located all over Iasi by using natural climate solutions, with the potential for wider application beyond the city(1 to 6). The project's primary goal is to tackle pollution in playgrounds and address the overall lack of green spaces for children (1). This initiative is led by the NGO Civica in collaboration with the Municipality of Iași and the Architects Association in Iași (OAR) (1). The project secured €50,000 in funding after winning a competition organized by Raiffeisen Comunități, with support from the NGO "Asociația pentru Relații Comunitare" (2 & 3).
In addition to pollution, the project seeks to address other critical issues, such as the heat island effect and the proximity of playgrounds to risk-prone areas (1). The guide will be developed based on public consultations with Iași residents and a comprehensive study to tackle these concerns (1 to 7).
Currently, the first phase of the project is underway, involving assessments of various factors in playgrounds, including existing vegetation, shading, surface quality, infrastructure conditions, and pollution risks (4). These aspects are also reflected in a questionnaire distributed to the public, which gathers opinions on factors like cleanliness, noise exposure, thermal comfort, safety, and preferred natural green solutions (6).
The initiative aims to raise awareness about climate change, actively engaging the community in the process (4). Once completed, the guide will be presented to the municipality with the goal of being adopted as a standard for future playground developments (1, 3, 4, 6). The first phase of the project will regenerate a playground by planting trees and native vegetation (3).

The redesign of Reinprechtsdorfer Street in Vienna is a greening initiative aimed at climate adaptation by reducing local temperatures and increasing green space in a densely built urban area. Implemented within one year, the project included planting trees, adding green beds, and widening the pavement to create a more inviting environment. New seating areas, drinking stations, and water play installations were introduced, providing spaces for relaxation, cooling off during high temperatures, and fostering social interaction. Accessibility and traffic safety were enhanced by leveling the pavement with the street and adopting a one-way system for cars.
The project, realized in 2023, was part of Vienna's city-wide "Out of the Tarmac" initiative and was spearheaded by the district and city council. It originated from discussions and a participatory design process with citizens dating back to 2014. Previously, Reinprechtsdorfer Street served as a congested connection between Wienzeile and Gürtel. The plan seeks to transform it into a “climate-friendly shopping street.”
The redesign involves planting 32 new trees accompanied by flower beds, plus three standalone flower beds. Sidewalks were widened, and amenities included parking for 36 bicycles, nine benches, and seating for 46 individuals. Cooling features such as two water installations, three mist columns, and two drinking hydrants will enhance comfort.
Renovation began in spring 2023, focusing first on the 400-meter stretch between Schönbrunner Straße and Arbeitergasse. A structurally separate one-way cycle path will link Schönbrunner Straße to Bräuhausgasse, while the existing cycle lane against the one-way system remained unchanged. (Ref. 1, 2, 6)

The City of Seville has carried out four tree planting campaigns between 2020 and 2024, aiming to meet the goals of its Urban Tree Management Plan for Seville [Ref. 2-7]. The intervention as described here is based on the planting campaigns to date, but as the Management Plan spans from 2019 to 2039, more campaigns can expected in the future. The tree management plan aims to provide guidelines for the planning of trees in the city to maximise their value and minimize conflicts. As part of the process, the current state of the tree population in Seville has been evaluated. The management plan describes the ecosystem services of trees related to climate adaptation, biodiversity and public health. It also identifies challenges and conflicts that may arise due to urban trees and their management [Ref. 1]. The plan has a goal to increase the tree cover in Seville by 5 % over 20 years, which leads to the ambition of planting 5000 trees yearly and the tree planting campaigns over the last years. Between 2020 and 2024, about 1000-5000 trees have been planted each year [Ref. 1-5].

The "Active Recreational Green Area Development at Horváth-tető" in Miskolc is a project aimed at revitalizing a central yet underutilized urban space, commissioned by the Municipality of Miskolc in 2017. A distinctive feature of Miskolc is the Avas hill, located in the city center, which beautifully blends nature with urban elements. Despite its potential, the area had been neglected, particularly following the decline of vineyard culture and the reduced use of old wine cellars. To address this, a comprehensive development plan was initiated to rejuvenate the Avas region, with Horváth-tető at its core.
The project aimed to transform the area into an outdoor recreational hub for all age groups. The hill's historic terraces, once popular promenades, were repurposed into distinct, multifunctional spaces. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy facilities such as street workout stations, an outdoor gym, a skate park, a climbing wall, and parkour elements. For those looking to relax, picnic areas, sunbathing spots, and a retro-style terrace are available. The entire development prioritizes accessibility, providing inclusive options for visitors with mobility challenges.
The park also features significant landscaping, including the planting of trees, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, and ferns, enhancing its overall appeal. Infrastructure improvements were made, including the restoration of stairs, paths, retaining walls, and the rainwater drainage system. A special shallow basin was designed to collect rainwater and support plant roots while also serving as a playful area for dogs within the dog park.
Since its opening in 2022, the park has become a popular destination, offering a tranquil escape in a beautiful setting. It provides a wide range of recreational opportunities for people of all ages, making it a valuable addition to Miskolc’s urban landscape and connecting the historical Avas hill with modern city life.(Ref.1,2)