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The Graveyard of Ship.      ©photo:  NatGeo

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The shipbreaking industry in Bangladesh, centred along the coast of Chattogram, is a major economic driver that supplies essential steel and creates jobs for thousands. However, its environmental impact is severe: toxic waste from dismantled ships—including oil, asbestos, and heavy metals—is often dumped directly onto beaches and into the sea, contaminating soil, water, and air. This pollution destroys coastal ecosystems, wipes out marine species, and degrades farmland, threatening the health and livelihoods of local communities who depend on fishing and agriculture. Additionally, workers and residents face hazardous conditions, with exposure to toxic substances leading to serious health problems and increased risk of injury or death. Despite its economic benefits, the industry’s lack of proper waste management and weak enforcement of environmental and labour regulations continue to pose significant risks to both the environment and the people living and working in the region.

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View on Chrobry Boulvard from the entrance highway to the city (2019)

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"The city cut off from the river"

The River Oder gives shape and character to the city of

Szczecin as a port and former Hanseatic city. Many

important buildings are located in close proximity to the

waterfront. Despite its representative location, at the foot

of Wały Chrobrego (museum-theatre complex with

terraces), the “Chrobry” Boulevard, remains the last

neglected stretch of Szczecin's embankment and is, in a

way, cut off from the urban fabric by car aterials.

For over seven years, the area was the subject of a

property dispute, delaying much-needed modernization.

Today, the space is dominated by car traffic and entirely

unfriendly to pedestrians, making access to the water

difficult. Although the museum complex with the terraces

are designed to provide a panoramic view of the Oder and

the surrounding area, they are paradoxically cut off from

the river with which they were meant to correspond. There

is a lack of greenery, seating, and small-scale urban

infrastructure that would make the area attractive for all

people. The boulevards have great potential to become a

true showcase for the city, but a comprehensive vision for

their revitalisation is still lacking.

T.Lipczynska

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HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT - A CASE OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND HUMAN/ANIMAL RIGHTS

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In recent years, Juja, a suburb of Nairobi, Kenya, has experienced a series of distressing hyena attacks that have raised significant alarm among residents and, tragically, led to several fatalities. These incidents, often occurring during nighttime hours, have resulted in injuries and loss of life, intensifying fear and anxiety within the community. Local authorities and wildlife officials attribute the attacks to the encroachment of urban development into previously natural hyena habitats. However, drought and famine due to climate change has also pushed the hyenas out of their hiding. In response to this growing crisis, efforts are being initiated to address human-wildlife conflict, including awareness campaigns and discussions on potential relocation strategies to ensure the safety of residents while considering wildlife conservation. The situation highlights the urgent need for approaches that balance urban expansion with the protection of both people and wildlife, as well as the negative effects climate change has on wildlife.

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Kivu Nord, Democratic Republic of the Congo

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The artisanal mining industry in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is rife with forced and child labor, unreported deaths and human rights abuses. (Siddharth Kara, https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/phone-electric-vehicle-congo-cobalt-mine-b2277665.html)

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Kivu Nord, Democratic Republic of the Congo

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Kivu Nord, Democratic Republic of the Congo

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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) holds 60% of the world’s coltan reserves, a vital mineral used in electronics, but its extraction relies heavily on over 40,000 child miners in Kivu province, who face hazardous conditions, exposure to radioactive substances, abuse, and trafficking. Despite laws and international certification schemes like the Kimberley Process and Dodd-Frank Act, enforcement is weak due to corruption, insufficient funding, and miners circumventing inspections, allowing illicit coltan to enter global supply chains. A new approach is needed, including stronger prosecution of violators, incentivizing education for children, harmonizing certification standards, and empowering local civil society groups to monitor and report child labor, as current measures have failed to protect these vulnerable minors.

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Around Lake Velence illigal spray painting has became a huge issue since the lake became one of the biggest turist attraction in the country. Due to the opportunity of large number sport related activities people love to visit and enjoy Hungary's culture. Graffiti is not just damaging the cultural estetic of the landscape but has toxic chemicals in them which gets into the air while its being painted. In conclusion these spray painting damages the landscape in estetic and endangeing plant and animal life.

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Cennet Koyu, Gölköy, Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye

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Cennet Koyu, Gölköy, Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye

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Cennet Koyu, Gölköy, Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye

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Cennet Koyu (literally "Paradise Bay") is a stunning and somewhat secluded bay located in Bodrum, Turkey — specifically near the Göltürkbükü area. It's famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush pine forests, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s often described as one of the most beautiful and unspoiled spots on the Bodrum Peninsula.

Cengiz Holding is undertaking a significant ''tourism development project'' in Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay), located in the Gölköy area of Bodrum, Turkey. The project involves constructing a luxury resort in partnership with Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, aiming for an opening in 2026. The development is situated on a 678,000-square-meter plot in Cennet Koyu, a region designated as a "Natural Site - Sustainable Conservation and Controlled Use Area.

The construction threatens the natural habitat of endangered species, notably the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), which relies on the secluded coves of Cennet Koyu for breeding. Additionally, they plan to build seven breakwaters and other coastal structures that could alter marine currents and sedimentation patterns, adversely affecting the bay's delicate aquatic ecosystem. The development entails clearing significant areas of pine forest, leading to loss of biodiversity and increased risk of soil erosion.

Cengiz Holding purchased the land from the Privatization Administration in 2012. However, the Council of State annulled the privatization decision twice, though these rulings were not enforced. Despite the area's protected status, the Ministry issued a "No Environmental Impact Assessment Required" decision for the project's capacity increase, sparking criticism from environmental groups.

Local residents, environmental organizations, and political figures have expressed strong opposition to the project, citing threats to the ecological integrity of Cennet Koyu and infringement on public rights. Protests and legal actions have been initiated to challenge the development.

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What does community engagement for civic futures look like in research communities (incl. scientists, pilots, engineers, operators and support crew) that may be extensions of national paradigms, but in extraterritorial spaces? Antarctic is supposed to be an international collaborative space. What does this look like when some bases have several hundred inhabitants, or in anticipation of more? I am interested in Rothera and Scott bases as case studies and points of departure (points of arrival?).

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What does community engagement for civic futures look like in research communities (incl. scientists, pilots, engineers, operators and support crew) that may be extensions of national paradigms, but in extraterritorial spaces? Antarctic is supposed to be an international collaborative space. What does this look like when some bases have several hundred inhabitants, or in anticipation of more? I am interested in Rothera and Scott bases as case studies and points of departure (points of arrival?).

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Sečovlje is a saltworks landscape with a mix of active and inactive working landscapes. The landscape, which only exists through consistent salt extraction activities, is caught in conflicts between the protection of nature and cultural heritage, the municipality’s economic aspirations, local population, private investors.

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Changes Affecting the Historical Gardens of Shiraz

Shiraz is renowned for its historical gardens, such as Eram Garden and Delgosha Garden, which are not only significant cultural and architectural heritage sites but also serve as vital components of the city's green infrastructure. These gardens have traditionally played a crucial role in moderating the local climate, supporting biodiversity, and providing recreational spaces for residents and visitors.

However, in recent years, the condition of these gardens has been negatively impacted by a combination of climate change, prolonged droughts, and unsustainable human activities. The excessive extraction of groundwater, urban sprawl, and poor water management have all contributed to the decline in vegetation health and the shrinking of green spaces. Additionally, rising temperatures and irregular rainfall patterns have made it increasingly difficult to maintain the lush, water-intensive landscaping that defines these historic spaces.

As a result, Shiraz is witnessing a gradual degradation of its green infrastructure, threatening both the environmental balance and the cultural identity tied to these iconic gardens. Urgent action is needed to preserve and restore these historic sites through sustainable irrigation techniques, native plant reintroduction, and integrated urban planning that values ecological heritage.

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This place should be a mangrove forest. The government states that this area is a mangrove forest but a fish pond area. Indeed, there are mangrove trees (Rizhophora mucronata). However, the trees are only planted along the embankment. Please look at the aerial photos; the fish pond dominates the site. Only several mangrove trees on an embankment are claimed as mangrove forests. We designed this area's landscape and put mangrove trees on the planting plan. We created a circle pattern different from the current grid embankment pattern. By this circle pattern, we hope that the planting of mangrove trees does not follow the embankment again; otherwise, the trees will be planted on the embankment again, and the results will be similar to the existing condition. We also design the silvofishery model for planting the mangroves. The total area of the hardscape of infrastructures, including buildings and concrete decks, is only a maximum of 4 percent of the total Area. it is a good guideline because the most important is achieving the landscape character of mangrove trees can be emerged.

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Ecological Preservation:

Degradation of Forests and Natural Habitats

The Zagros Mountains, which border the Shiraz region, have unique ecosystems under threat from human activity and climate stress.

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1200px-منطقه_نوژیان

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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A historic waterway with untapped potential for public use and ecological restoration. Once a key transportation route, parts of the canal are now neglected, with limited accessibility and environmental degradation. While some sections have been revitalized, others remain overgrown, underutilized, or difficult to integrate into the urban fabric. Also, many sections of the canal suffer from poor maintenance and pollution.

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Gorgan, located in northern Iran near the Caspian Sea and the Alborz Mountains, is known for its diverse and picturesque landscape.

Surrounded by the ancient Hyrcanian forests—one of the oldest and most ecologically significant forest regions in the world—the area features lush greenery, rolling hills, and a mild, humid climate.

The Gorgan River runs through the region, and the nearby mountains add to the dramatic scenery with misty peaks and hidden waterfalls.

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Korail Slum: A Landscape of Informality, Insecurity, and Power

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Korail slum—locally known as Korail Bosti—is one of the largest informal settlements in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Spread across 90 to 100 acres, it lies adjacent to the city’s most affluent neighborhoods, Gulshan and Banani. Despite its proximity to wealth, Korail is home to over 50,000 residents who live in densely packed housing, navigate narrow alleys, and survive with limited access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity.

The community faces numerous challenges rooted in its informal status. Without legal land tenure, residents are excluded from formal urban planning and are under constant threat of eviction. This lack of recognition also prevents them from accessing public resources or support for community development efforts like urban agriculture. Efforts to improve living conditions often rely on NGOs or grassroots initiatives, which are constrained by the absence of formal governance. In this vacuum, informal power structures take hold. Local strongmen or brokers frequently mediate access to essential services, permits, and protection. These services—often acquired through unofficial means—are distributed not based on civic rights or need, but rather on political allegiance or payment. Ironically, Korail residents often pay higher rent per square foot than many in the formal city, yet receive none of the protections or infrastructure.

One of the most alarming consequences of this informality is the recurring threat of fire. Fires are frequent in Korail and are often viewed not merely as accidents, but as instruments of control within a larger political ecology. With the land being so valuable due to its location, suspicions often arise that these fires are intentionally set to displace residents, weaken community resistance, or clear space for development. Fires in Korail serve as brutal reminders that its residents lack both physical and political ground to stand on.

In sum, Korail is more than a dense cluster of tin shacks, it is a deeply contested urban space where poverty, politics, and power collide. Its residents continue to show resilience, but they live within a system designed to keep them marginalized, unstable, and unheard.

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This is Al-Maadi, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Cairo, Egypt. Its unique radial urban pattern has created a number of circular roundabouts nestled between residential blocks. In some areas, these roundabouts function as quiet, semi-private green spaces for the surrounding residents.

In the past, such spaces played a vibrant role in daily life, hosting a range of social and recreational activities. Today, however, they are largely underused. This decline is mainly due to a lack of essential amenities—there are no benches, pavements, lighting fixtures, or other elements that might invite people to linger and engage with the space.

Yet, the potential remains. In one of these roundabouts, residents took the initiative to place just four benches. This simple intervention was enough to draw people back into the space, proving that with minimal improvements, these neglected green pockets can once again become beloved community hubs. It’s a clear sign that people still value these spaces and are drawn to them when given the opportunity.

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The US-Mexico border is 1,954mi (3,145km) long, with about 700mi (1,126km) currently split with physical walls. The US proposes additional construction of border walls that pose threats to human life and well-being as well as threats to wildlife. The wall construction projects are expensive non-solutions to issues such as illegal immigration and smuggling and will cause more dangerous and potentially life-threatening obstacles for migrants. Some proposed sections of the wall would also divide Native American tribal lands. Other sections would divide wildlife refuges and contribute to further habitat fragmentation.

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Κολυμβητήριο Μυτιλήνης, Μυτιλήνη

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Κολυμβητήριο Μυτιλήνης, Μυτιλήνη

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Κολυμβητήριο Μυτιλήνης, Μυτιλήνη

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Το κτήριο του κλειστού κολυμβητηρίου Μυτιλήνης παραμένει κλειστό επι δεκαετία. Είναι (ήταν) ένας ανοιχτός δημόσιος χώρος με αρκετούς συμπληρωματικούς χώρους άθλησης (ping pong, ενόργανη, γυμναστήριο, κ.α) που δεν χρησιμοποιείται ενώ βρίσκεται σε κεντρικό σημείο της πόλης δίπλα στο λιμάνι. Καθώς, έχει παρεκπέσει, λόγω εγκατάληψης και μη συντήρησης, αποτελεί και κίνδυνος ασφάλειας για τους περαστικούς. Έχει μόλις αποφασιστεί να προχωρήσει η δημιουργία ανοιχτού κολυμβητήριο σε περιοχή εκτός του οικισμού της Μυτιλήνης. Πράξη μικρότερης κοινοτικής σημασίας. Δεν έχουν ακολουθεί συμμετοχικές πρόσεγγισεις για την επιλογή και χρηστή αξιοποίηση. https://www.stonisi.gr/post/85107/kleisto-gymnasthrio-mytilhnhs-sthn-oytza-sxediazei-o-moytzoyrhs

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κολυμβητήριο Μυτιλήνης | Lesvosnews.net

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κολυμβητήριο Μυτιλήνης

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Bulakan’s transformation from fertile lands and peaceful rivers to a flood-prone industrial zone highlights the devastating impact of the airport’s construction. Once a thriving agricultural hub, the town now suffers from severe flooding due to the destruction of wetlands and farmlands, natural flood buffers sacrificed for large-scale development. The airport stands as a symbol of failed landscape democracy where economic and political interests silenced local voices. Farmers and fishers, once stewards of the land, were excluded from decision-making, leading to the erasure of heritage, livelihoods, and ecological balance.

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Seeing the greens go away day by day because people wanted to live in the city, resulting to a point of no return. All the agricultural land used for commercial building and doing it in an unplanned manner because the political leaders thought this was the way to boot the economy of the capital. However this has affected the cultural and historical value of the place. And also loosing the authenticity of the city structure and the use of material, it is sad to see go by.

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This area has a controversial history. Much of downtown beirut was privatized and rebuilt by private companies.

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Lack of management. Citadel employees are usually on strike, which restricts access to the historic site and has allowed vegetation to overtake the structure.

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I'll governmental management, leading to failed projects such as the old Railway.

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Venetian Lagoon, Metropolitan City of Venice

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Venetian Lagoon, Metropolitan City of Venice

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Venetian Lagoon, Metropolitan City of Venice

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Ticket services system it will be official since april 2025. Tying a city to tourism monoculture means sealing it off and packaging it; it means—especially in the case of Venice—definitively depopulating it and increasingly denying its residents access to housing and services. It is a very clear political choice, which becomes evident with a quick "economic" calculation. The costs of managing the entry ticket are very high, and these resources could have been used for residential policies instead—for example, to cap unaffordable rents, renovate abandoned public housing, or increase funding for public grants.

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Illegal privatization of protected public areas. Locals are kicked out in favour of constructing private resorts/controlled public access

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Scarce governmental funding for agricultural production. Food availability largely relies on imported products

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Karachi, A city in Pakistan facing seriously populated areas being the metropolitan hub of the country. Due to housing and public spaces shortage a lot of people from different zones of Pakistan migrate to Karachi. The public transportation facilities are good to none sadly due to non-vigilance. But I am sure with a little observance and care, This city has a good potential.

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Waslet Dahshur Rd, First Al Sheikh Zayed, Giza Governorate, Egypt

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Waslet Dahshur Rd, First Al Sheikh Zayed, Giza Governorate, Egypt

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Waslet Dahshur Rd, First Al Sheikh Zayed, Giza Governorate, Egypt

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Dahshur Road is considered as a main axis in 6 oct. city, this side of the road was planned to be a public recreation area with green areas, water elements, walking tracks and play grounds for children.

After a while the government sell the plots along this road to investors for entertainment and services projects such as Cafes and restaurant. Now the city has lost a large part of the proposed public green area in addition that people also has also their accessibility to a public area without being directed to a certain type of entertainment which is expensive for the majority. Furthermore, it also affect the well being of the individuals as most of new restaurants in the area are fast food, so instead having fun in a park with family and friends you would rather buy some junk food. Eventually, we can see the dramatic impact of user experience as a result of changing the land use, and how it the individuals' consumption behavior.

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Closed military area - potential green public space

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Budapest, Pesti alsó rkp., 1052 Magyarország

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Community Access to the Danube Riverbank in Budapest

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Budapest, Pesti alsó rkp., 1052 Magyarország

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Budapest, Pesti alsó rkp., 1052 Magyarország

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Community Access to the Danube Riverbank in Budapest

The Danube Riverbank in Budapest is a crucial public space, yet its accessibility and use have been a topic of debate. While some areas remain open for public enjoyment, others are increasingly privatized, limiting free access to the waterfront.

Key Challenges:

Privatization and Commercial Development

Many sections of the riverbank have been transformed into high-end residential or commercial areas, restricting public access.

Restaurants, hotels, and private docks occupy spaces that could otherwise serve as open community areas.

Lack of Continuous Public Walkways

Although Budapest has beautiful promenades along the Danube, gaps in accessibility prevent a seamless experience for pedestrians and cyclists.

Some parts of the riverbank remain underdeveloped or blocked by infrastructure.

Community Involvement in Planning

Local residents and grassroots organizations often demand greater participation in decision-making.

Projects like the Valyo (City and River Association) advocate for making the Danube more accessible to the public.

Balance Between Green Spaces and Urban Development

Efforts to create more green, recreational areas sometimes clash with economic interests.

The challenge is to ensure sustainable development that benefits both the city and its residents.

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My hometown Binuangan is an island barangay located at the confluence of the Binuangan and Muzon Rivers, Manila Bay coast. It is a small community with a strong cultural tradition. The site provides support for diverse marine life, and the people practice traditional fishing activities as their main source of income. Since I was a child we still experience flooding in our barangay, given that it was located along the coast. The flooding has thus largely occurred whenever there has been a typhoon.

Unfortunately, the development of the transportation hub, specifically the airport started in 2022. The area for this project was reclaimed and has environmental concerns, particularly regarding the loss of mangrove forests. Today, Binuangan usually suffers from severe flooding due to rapid sea level rise, which previously did not occur. Coastal communities become increasingly threatened by coastal erosion, flooding, loss of biodiversity, and declining fisheries, affecting their livelihoods and well-being. Local communities have raised concerns about the social and environmental impacts of the project up until now. This development highlights the need for more transparent and community-friendly engagement practices in large-scale infrastructure projects to become sustainable for both people and the environment.

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Dalat has a unique cultural identity shaped by its history, architecture, lifestyle, and highland nature. The city’s charm lies in its old French villas, the bustling Dalat Market with local specialties like grilled rice paper, and a slow-paced life wrapped in mist. However, many tourist attractions have diluted this identity by incorporating overly eccentric design languages and copying architectural styles from various places, creating a fragmented atmosphere that disconnects from Dalat’s original cultural and natural essence.

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I witnessed and experience landscape democrarcy in many ways and different situations. One of the most common form of it is present to some public parks located at a municipality where local vendors of a community isn't welcome due to being hindrance to aesthetics. This situation occurs when community is not considered to design and planning phase or stage. The park is used not because residents needed to but due to having no options or choices, it is a sign and characteristics of poor planning that should be centered for equal and fair rights to open spaces.

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I once experienced a non-democratic situation in our public park in Baliwag. I was mistaken for a stray kid, or 'Batang Hamog,' and prevented from entering the park because some high-profile or important individuals were going to use the area. I understood their intentions, as the park at that time was primarily a space for picnics and dining. However, the presence of random skaters riding their skateboards in the center of the park gave the area a disorganized appearance.

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наб. канала Грибоедова, 131, Санкт-Петербург, Россия, 190068

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Road expansion prioritizing parking over public green spaces

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My hometown is Saint Petersburg, Russia, listed by UNESCO as a "Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments." It is distinguished by a harmonious blend of expansive open spaces (including squares, embankments, gardens, andboulevards) and densely built building blocks. This unique urban layout not only preserves the city's architectural heritage but also caters to the recreational and social needs of its residents, fostering community interaction and enhancing the cultural landscape.

Road expansion prioritizing parking over historical site preservation, often resulting in the reduction or replacement of green spaces. This transformation impacts not only the greenery but also the urban landscape and historic atmosphere, affecting whether a city feels livable or becomes like a "concrete jungle."

Due to this landscape change and also over-commercialisation of the central zone, local people lose a sense of the place, they are pushed away from the zone where they used to live.

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Bolivar Beach Bar, Λεωφόρος Ποσειδώνος, Άλιμος

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Bolivar Beach Bar, Λεωφόρος Ποσειδώνος, Άλιμος

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Bolivar Beach Bar, Λεωφόρος Ποσειδώνος, Άλιμος

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One of the most important features of Greece is our seaside landscapes. More and more people are coming to Greece to see them, yet we are changing the character of our coastlines, mainly for the sake of impressing , to the point where they no longer resemble a Mediterranean landscape. As a result, Greece’s identity is gradually being lost.

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Abdali Boulevard: A Gated Luxury in the Heart of Amman – But at What Cost?

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Abdali Boulevard in Amman is a prime example of gentrification, where a high-end, modern development contrasts starkly with its surrounding urban fabric. Marketed as the new downtown, the project introduced luxury apartments, office spaces, and retail outlets that cater to affluent residents and international businesses. However, this transformation displaced local communities, altered the city's socio-economic balance, and created an exclusive enclave disconnected from its historical and cultural surroundings. The rising costs of living in the area pushed out lower-income residents, reducing diversity and limiting public accessibility. Instead of integrating with the existing urban environment, Abdali Boulevard stands as an isolated, out-of-context project that prioritizes commercial interests over inclusive urban development.

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Bogotá, as the capital of Colombia, has historically been a destination for internal migration due to economic opportunities and the search for a better quality of life. In recent years, it has also received a high number of Venezuelan migrants, which has increased its cultural diversity but has also created challenges in terms of integration and the appropriation of urban space.

With more than 8 million inhabitants, the city faces a social fragmentation marked by class differences, which hinders the democratization of the landscape. Although community initiatives exist that seek to strengthen social cohesion and improve the urban environment, many of them lack the necessary government support to expand and consolidate.

In this context, Bogotá is undergoing a significant transformation with the construction of its first metro system, a project discussed for more than 50 years in territorial planning documents. Being an elevated metro, its impact on the urban landscape is noticeable, and although it is still under construction, its structures are already redefining the environment. However, the urban dynamics under these new infrastructures have not yet been fully assimilated by the citizenry, which represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the evolution of public space in the city.

Adriana Perez Rubiano

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Budapest, MOL Campus, Dombóvári út 28, 1117 Magyarország

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Budapest, MOL Campus, Dombóvári út 28, 1117 Magyarország

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Budapest, MOL Campus, Dombóvári út 28, 1117 Magyarország

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The MOL Campus was completed and handed over in 2022, becoming the tallest building in Budapest (also in Hungary) with its 143 m. The skyscaper is super-modern, but very controversial.

The huge building breaks the pattern of the city and affects its character. This relatively new element is visible from various frequently visited points of the city which makes it too dominant and striking.

For example this photo was taken from Gellért Hill and from its viewpoints the mentioned element can be easily spotted, not fitting into its landscape due to its parameters.

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Point Lookout State Park, Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD

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Point Lookout State Park, Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD

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Point Lookout State Park, Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD

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Point Lookout is a site rich with American history that dates as far back as the Revolutionary War. Unfortunately, due to sea level rise, the park has lost about half of its land since that time. And within the next 50 years, Point Lookout is at risk of losing most of its land. With design interventions to preserve the marshes, coastal land, and history, we can hopefully mitigate the impacts of rapid sea level rise.

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Έδεσσα, Ελλάδα

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Hydroelectric power plant of Edessaios river

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Έδεσσα, Ελλάδα

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Έδεσσα, Ελλάδα

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The city of Edessa is located atop a steep cliff, with the Edessaios River flowing through its streets and creating stunning waterfalls. These waterfalls are the largest in Greece and form a unique natural landscape that serves as the city's main tourist attraction. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the cliff's edge was used as an industrial zone with water-powered factories. In the 1960s, the construction of the Edessaios power plant at the base of the cliff deprived factory owners the right to use water as a power source. Combined with Greece's broader trend of deindustrialization, this led to the abandonment of the industrial zone. Today, the area remains largely abandoned, though it is listed as a monument. This has resulted in a disconnection between the city and the landscape that once defined it. This situation presents several challenges, particularly in terms of preserving the heritage of the man-made infrastructure in contrast to the natural environment, and in understanding the relationship between today's citizens and the city’s modern infrastructure.

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Carbon Credit Deals and The loss of Maasai Ancestral Land: A Case Study of the Longido and Monduli Rangelands Carbon Project (LMRCP).

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Carbon Credit Deals and The loss of Maasai Ancestral Land: A Case Study of the Longido and Monduli Rangelands Carbon Project (LMRCP).

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The Longido and Monduli Rangelands Carbon Project (LMRCP) presents a complex challenge as it aims to generate carbon credits while potentially impacting the Maasai community and their ancestral lands. Despite the project's goals of environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation, there are concerns regarding the inclusivity and representation of the Maasai in decision-making processes related to land use and carbon trading. The monetization of carbon credits raises questions about land rights, cultural preservation, and the socioeconomic implications for the Maasai, who have historically relied on these rangelands for their livelihoods. As policies governing carbon credit deals evolve, the lack of transparent governance and participatory frameworks may undermine the rights and interests of Indigenous populations, necessitating an urgent examination of how these initiatives can be aligned with their needs and values.

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The West Bank faces severe landscape democracy challenges due to political and planning restrictions. The division of land into Areas A, B, and C limits Palestinian urban expansion, leading to overcrowding and unregulated construction. Israeli settlements and the Green Line further fragment the natural landscape, harming ecosystems and reducing agricultural land. Sustainable planning is needed to balance development with environmental protection.

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The Pálffy Distillery is a historic industrial building in Malacky, Slovakia, located near the Malina creek, across from the old Pálffy estate. Built around 1918, it once produced alcohol from potatoes and is now the last preserved part of the former manor’s economic complex.

Today, the building is abandoned and deteriorating, despite being a national cultural monument. It holds great potential for community use — as a cultural, educational, or public space — but remains closed and without a clear future.

This is a clear landscape democracy challenge: decisions about its future are made without involving local people. The community lacks a voice in whether it’s preserved, reused, or privatized. Restoring the distillery through a participatory process could transform it into a shared public space, reflecting both history and today’s civic needs.

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I witnessed Landscape democrary in the Philippines, one example and common is the discrimination and hierarchy to landscape spaces. Some public parks aren't open for vendors which is sign that community isn't considered in planning state. Lack of consideration sometimes results to forced use where users use the area not because they needed to but because they don't have options which is a characteristic of a unsuccessful design and planning of spaces.

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Himachal Pradesh faces landscape problems stemming from its mountainous terrain, including vulnerability to natural disasters like landslides, cloudbursts, and floods, exacerbated by factors like unscientific construction and climate change.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Natural Disasters:

Landslides:

The hilly terrain and loose soil make Himachal Pradesh highly susceptible to landslides, which are a major cause of damage and loss of life.

Cloudbursts and Flash Floods:

The state experiences heavy rainfall, leading to frequent cloudbursts and flash floods, particularly in the summer months.

Avalanches:

During winter, snow avalanches pose a significant threat in the higher reaches of the Himalayas.

Earthquakes:

Himachal Pradesh is located in a high seismic zone, making it vulnerable to earthquakes.

Droughts:

Despite being a mountainous region, some areas can experience droughts, especially during periods of low rainfall.

Environmental Issues:

Deforestation:

Infrastructure development, hydropower projects, and unsustainable land use practices contribute to deforestation, leading to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

Land Subsidence:

The fragile nature of the landscape can lead to land subsidence, particularly in areas with heavy construction or mining activities.

Soil Erosion:

The combination of landslides, deforestation, and heavy rainfall contributes to soil erosion, impacting agricultural productivity and water resources.

Water Scarcity:

While Himachal Pradesh has abundant water resources, some areas are facing water scarcity due to climate change, unsustainable water management practices, and the drying up of springs.

Hydropower projects:

The proliferation of hydropower development has unleashed challenges such as deforestation, fragmentation, soil erosion and loss of forest biodiversity for the local terrestrial ecosystems.

Tourism:

The influx of tourists, especially during peak seasons, can lead to environmental degradation, including pollution and overexploitation of resources.

Illegal Mining and Deforestation:

These activities, often with political backing, have a huge environmental impact.

Human-Induced Factors:

Unscientific Construction:

Building infrastructure without proper geological assessments and environmental considerations can exacerbate the risk of landslides and other disasters.

Climate Change:

The changing climate is leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, droughts, and heatwaves, which further strain the fragile ecosystem.

Increased Human Activities:

Population growth, urbanization, and increased tourism put additional pressure on the environment and natural resources.

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Green Infrastructure - Social Infrastructure Nature is so close but how do we connect as a community, the 'more than human' and the ecological communities to benefit and improve health outcomes?

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Str. Ghirlandei 7, București 077042, Romania

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"Apusului" community garden and local composting station. January 2025. 

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Productive urban landscapes in a post-socialist context - the situation of urban agriculture practices and legislation in Bucharest

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Productive urban landscapes in a post-socialist context - the situation of urban agriculture practices and legislation in Bucharest

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Urban agriculture practices and gardening on public land (in this example, the green spaces adjacent to socialist collective housing) are not supported by legal frameworks. This leads to a constant state of unpredictability, as public authorities have administrative rights and have the power to keep or dismantle existing gardens without taking into account the wishes of the informal gardeners and nearby residents. Even more, urban agriculture is frowned upon as being "uncivilized".

In this context, a community composting advocacy group is struggling to get the attention of the authorities and implement sustainable local waste management solutions for kitchen scraps.

What form of legislation and policy is useful in this situation? Can it support existing gardening practices and encourage the development of new ones?

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Karoon River Side, Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, Iran

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Karoon River Side, Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, Iran

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Karoon River Side, Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, Iran

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The Ahvaz Karoon riverside faces major landscape democracy challenges, including wildlife loss, pollution, mismanagement, and urbanization, all of which harm biodiversity and water quality. Limited public access and social inequality further restrict community engagement, while climate change worsens water scarcity. Sustainable planning and community involvement are key to addressing these issues.

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Nairobi is experiencing the challenges of high population growth and rapid urbanization rate.

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Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion

The extension of the Trans Mountain pipeline (TMX) came with several landscape and social challenges that have sparked controversy and resistance.

Landscape Challenges

Environmental Damage & Biodiversity Loss

The pipeline expansion crosses sensitive ecosystems, including forests, rivers, and mountainous terrain.

It threatens habitats of endangered species, like the southern resident killer whale and caribou.

Risk of Oil Spills

The expansion increases the amount of crude oil transported, raising the risk of spills in land and marine environments.

A spill could have devastating effects on water bodies, soil, and wildlife.

Water Contamination

The pipeline runs through watersheds that supply drinking water to communities.

Accidental leaks could contaminate rivers and aquifers, affecting both humans and ecosystems.

Increased Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The expansion facilitates increased oil extraction and transportation, leading to higher carbon emissions.

This contradicts Canada’s climate goals and international agreements on reducing emissions.

Natural Disaster Risks

The pipeline crosses earthquake-prone zones and landslide-prone areas, increasing the risk of structural failures.

Social Challenges

Indigenous Rights & Land Disputes

Many Indigenous groups oppose the pipeline, arguing it violates their rights and sovereignty.

Legal battles have been fought over lack of proper consultation and environmental concerns.

Community Opposition & Protests

Environmental activists, Indigenous leaders, and local communities have protested the project, citing climate and safety concerns.

Arrests and legal actions against protestors have raised human rights concerns.

Economic vs. Environmental Debate

Proponents argue the project creates jobs and economic growth.

Critics argue that long-term environmental costs outweigh short-term economic benefits.

Potential for Increased Oil Tanker Traffic

The expansion increases tanker traffic in the Burrard Inlet and Salish Sea, affecting marine life and increasing the risk of spills.

Regulatory & Legal Hurdles

The project has faced multiple legal challenges, including federal court cases and opposition from the British Columbia government.

Conclusion

The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion remains a contentious issue, balancing economic benefits with significant environmental and social concerns. While the Canadian government supports it for economic reasons, opposition from Indigenous groups, environmentalists, and local communities continues to shape the debate.

​As of April 2025, the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion is fully operational. The expanded system commenced commercial operations on May 1, 2024, increasing the pipeline's capacity to transport up to 890,000 barrels of crude oil per day from Alberta to British Columbia. ​

Since its activation, the expanded pipeline has been transporting crude oil to various markets, including increased exports to Asia and the United States. ​

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Maragheh, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Maragheh, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Maragheh, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Maragheh County, located in northwestern Iran in the province of Azerbaijan, is known as the "Garden City of Azerbaijan" due to its natural resources and lush, beautiful landscapes. However, in recent decades, due to urban development and excessive use of natural resources for industrial purposes, this stunning and captivating landscape has unfortunately been diminishing and deteriorating. This, in turn, is causing environmental issues for the residents of the region.

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As shown in the image, due to mismanagement in the northwestern region of Iran, excessive water consumption for agricultural and industrial purposes, as well as the construction of dams and the unprincipled and unprofessional construction of a bridge in the middle of Lake Urmia, environmental damage has been inflicted on the Azerbaijan region of Iran, leading to the drying up of the lake. In addition to these issues, this problem has also caused environmental challenges in the surrounding areas of the lake. If this trend continues, in the near future, this region will become uninhabitable due to salt storms and water shortages.

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Belgrade is a city shaped exclusively by the visions and interests of investors. With their work, the city landscape is transforming into a single, bland skyline, erasing memory and identity and creating a further individualized and watered down version of an already discordant city area.

The Terazija terrace is a small park located on a slope in the city centre. Although solutions have been nominated and awarded for more than 80 years, through many contests and public tenders for its renovation, the “multitude of winning ideas” conundrum still hasn't been cleared up, let alone realized. What’s left of this dream is a completely neglected space: unmaintained lawns, broken benches and seemingly random paths with cracked concrete, lacking any aesthetic value or flair. The park holds a lot of potential due to its historic location and panoramic view of the city, which was unfortunately lessened, partially because of a controversial investor’s playground on the riverbank (the Belgrade Waterfront neighborhood), spoiling the natural view with its skyscrapers.

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Riserva naturale del Borsacchio, Via Nazionale, Roseto degli Abruzzi, TE, Abruzzo

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Riserva naturale del Borsacchio, Via Nazionale, Roseto degli Abruzzi, TE, Abruzzo

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Riserva naturale del Borsacchio, Via Nazionale, Roseto degli Abruzzi, TE, Abruzzo

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Contested coastal landscape between conservation and urban pressure

The Borsacchio Nature Reserve stretches along the Abruzzese coast between Roseto degli Abruzzi and Cologna Spiaggia. Despite its protected status since 2005, the area has long suffered from conflicting interests, lack of enforcement, and low public awareness. In recent years, proposals to drastically reduce the reserve’s surface have sparked civic mobilization and local resistance. The area is rich in dune ecosystems, farmland, and cultural landscapes, yet remains fragmented by private fences, illegal dumping, and urban sprawl. Local groups advocate for real protection, participatory planning, and better access for all. The Borsacchio case raises urgent questions on how democratically protected areas are managed and who gets to shape their future

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Comune Di Carrara, Via Provinciale Castelpoggio, Castelpoggio, Massa, Italy

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Territory marked by extractive industry and fragmented civic participation

The landscape around Massa di Carrara is globally known for its marble quarries, which have shaped both the economy and the physical environment for centuries. Yet today, this extractive heritage comes with high social and ecological costs: hills scarred by open-pit mining, deforestation, and dust pollution directly affect nearby communities. Public debate is often polarized between economic dependency and environmental protection, but citizen voices are rarely included in decision-making processes. Access to the mountains is limited, and some trails or cultural landmarks are compromised by quarrying activity. This area illustrates the urgent need to rethink how landscape resources are governed, who benefits from them, and how the territory can move toward more just and inclusive futures.

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Budapest, Csepel Művek, Színesfém utca, Ungheria

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Post-industrial zone caught between abandonment and speculation

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Budapest, Csepel Művek, Színesfém utca, Ungheria

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Budapest, Csepel Művek, Színesfém utca, Ungheria

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Csepel, once a key industrial hub in Budapest, is now a vast semi-abandoned landscape of warehouses, fenced plots, and deteriorating infrastructure. The area holds historic value as a working-class stronghold, but remains cut off from the rest of the city and from democratic planning processes. Gentrification looms, with limited guarantees for existing communities. The main challenge is how to reconnect the area to the urban life, preserve its industrial heritage, and open it to inclusive, multifunctional uses. Today, the space is still full of potential.

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Quartiere VIII Tuscolano, Roma RM, Italia

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Residential district under housing, gentrification and identity pressure

Quadraro is a historically working-class district in southeast Rome, known for its antifascist resistance and strong local identity. Today, it faces growing housing fragility: evictions, informal arrangements, and increasing rent make it harder for long-term residents to remain. Public spaces are often disconnected or neglected, while speculative dynamics reshape the urban fabric without community involvement. The area’s open spaces, though green, are rarely designed for inclusivity. The challenge lies in preserving local memory, ensuring access to dignified housing, and reclaiming common space as a shared, democratic good.

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In actuality, the Philippines has experienced a great deal of landscape democracy. Upgrading specific locations has been a common issue for Filipinos when it comes to land utilization since they risk losing their voice or their property rights. In my last essay, I selected my city of Paombong Bulacan as an example since, as a student aspiring to work in landscape architecture, I found it extremely worrisome that everyone's viewpoints are not respected (no matter what). They used to live in an informal community, but now it's a public market. However, the LGU prioritizes making it a socioeconomic space and fails to take into account the individuals who will be touched because they choose to make it a public market, which is in some ways a positive thing. They simply left them without taking into account their opinions or their so-called "decision makings," which put the money and market expansion they stand to gain from it first. They haven't provided them a means to start over.

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Via dei Gordiani / Via Belmonte Castello

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Via dei Gordiani / Via Belmonte Castello

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Fragmented green space with social and spatial inequality

This area in eastern Rome shows the deep contradictions of the city’s suburbs. A large open space remains unused, unfenced but unofficial, surrounded by sports fields, informal housing (like the Rudari settlement), and dense urban blocks. The land is rich in biodiversity and often used spontaneously by local communities, but lacks infrastructure, recognition and inclusive planning. Fragmentation, marginalization, and speculation risks are high. This space could become a vital ecological and social connector, yet today it suffers from invisibility in planning, limited accessibility, and a lack of democratic participation in its future. The only exception to mention is for the new roman bike path “GRAB” that plans to cross the park in the future.

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Via dei Gordiani  Via Belmonte Castello, Rome, Italy (2)

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Current condition of the Ichamati River: struggles with pollution, encroachment, and unfinished restoration @source: author

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The Decline and Unfinished Restoration of the Ichamati River

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The Decline and Unfinished Restoration of the Ichamati River

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The Ichamati River, flowing through the centre part of Pabna town, Bangladesh, was historically a vital waterway supporting agriculture, trade, and daily life. Over time, urbanization, pollution, and illegal encroachment have significantly degraded its water quality and water flow. Once a lifeline for local communities, the river now faces environmental challenges, threatening biodiversity and public well-being. In response, the substantial revitalisation project was initiated in early 2025, with a budget of TK. 1554.9 core. Supervised by the Bangladesh Army, the project encompassed dredging, constructing bridges, building retaining walls, and developing walkways alongside the riverbanks. The initiative aims to restore the river's health and enhance the quality of life for Pabna residents. Despite these efforts, concerns have been raised about the project approach, particularly regarding land acquisition and the construction of new bridges. Critics urged that the project should prioritized evicting illegal encroachers and restoring the river to its original course based on the historical maps, rather than acquiring additional land. Due to these challenges, the project was ultimately discontinued, raising questions about the future of Ichamati's restoration.

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Pipera Metro Station, Bulevardul Dimitrie Pompeiu, Bucharest

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View from Floreasca Lake. Author: Antonia Panaitescu

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Pipera Metro Station, Bulevardul Dimitrie Pompeiu, Bucharest

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Pipera Metro Station, Bulevardul Dimitrie Pompeiu, Bucharest

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Pipera area has become in the last 20 years the business district of Bucharest. With a rising density, the district accommodates a high number of employees and also the highest building in Romania (Sky Tower, 137 meters). The built area is constantly increasing, not following a vision and a masterplan, with space between buildings constantly shrinking and lacking direct sunlight. The district has "risen" out of the ex-industrial platform "Pipera", which is a common practice in Bucharest.

The problems that this kind of practice creates are: increasing car traffic, pollution, low-quality public space, single-use area (business), gated-community residential areas, lack of accessibility and green areas.

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Pulilan is a town in Bulacan, Philippines that was once primarily an agricultural landscape, with its residents focused on farming and poultry raising. The fertile land supported the livelihoods of many families, providing fresh produce and goods for the local population. Over time, however, the town has undergone significant changes. Farmlands that once defined the area have been transformed into commercial and industrial zones. This shift has led to the decline of agricultural work and has affected the traditional way of life for many residents.

The changes in Pulilan have created a broader eco-social issue. The loss of farmland has impacted local livelihoods, leaving many without the same opportunities for income. As industries take over, employment has shifted, but not everyone has been able to adapt to the new job market. The community is now grappling with the loss of its agricultural identity and the challenges that come with this transformation. The real concern now is finding a way to address both the ecological and social disruptions caused by this rapid transformation.

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Khulna is located in coastal Bangladesh, the third-largest city in Bangladesh and the third-largest economic center in the country. Large-scale industrialization spurred population growth and urbanization. Today, the city is facing serious water resilience issues including saltwater intrusion, "dying" rivers, and coastal flooding from lack of adequate drainage and sea level rise.

Khulna is suffering from a dysfunctional drainage system. The issues are several: problems with design and construction; lack of maintenance; communities and businesses discharging sewerage and discarding solid waste in drains; encroachments upon surface water bodies; filling of hundreds of smaller ponds; and increased hard surfacing. Half of the rivers and canals of Khulna have disappeared, partly due to siltation, partly because they have been filled by people with sand and garbage. The same has happened to hundreds of ponds. Higher land values made it attractive to landfill ponds, especially when ponds became less valuable as a water source after the introduction of pumps which people to shift to groundwater as their main source of potable water.

The presence of a considerable number of slums, with narrow lanes, little open space and lack of capacity and willingness to pay for public services, is a further complication for the proper disposal of sewerage and solid waste. The result is that flooding and prolonged water logging cause physical and economic damage to households and businesses, especially in congested slums which often lie in depressions or are not properly connected to the drainage system. Especially poor people therefor suffer from health effects of these events.

While Khulna has an extensive, though malfunctioning drainage system, it has no sewerage system and only 25% of solid waste is collected by the city corporation. While solid waste causes both pollution and blockage of drains, sewerage mixes with storm water runoff creating health risks and making rain water unfit for reuse.

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In Peru, over 30% of Lima’s population lives in informal settlements, often built on steep hillsides and arid urban peripheries. These self-organized neighborhoods face critical shortages of green and public spaces and are highly exposed to climate-related risks such as landslides, floods, and extreme heat. Despite their vulnerability and exclusion from formal planning, it is essential to recognize the remarkable urban resilience of these communities, their capacity to adapt, organize, and create belonging in challenging environments. As cities in the Global South continue to grow, landscape democracy becomes essential to promote inclusion, resilience, and the right of all people to shape equitable and livable environments.

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the marble way to the parthenon

λῐθᾰγωγία

Mountains mold cities and their monuments. What do we give them back?

eleni filippa, Landscape architecure AUA, April 2025

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Increase in river levels during periods of heavy rainfall throughout the year.

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Ponte Nova, a city in the interior of Minas Gerais, Brazil, faces challenges related to the degradation of its historic center, whose preservation is essential for local memory and heritage. Additionally, the region suffers from recurring floods, worsening social and economic issues, highlighting the need for integrated actions to ensure urban conservation and mitigate environmental impacts.

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Rákosrendező has been the topic of recent controversy and political debate. It's a vast unutilized and contaminated brownfield area in northeast Budapest, historically used as an industrial and logistics hub. The Hungarian government contractually sold 85 hectares to a private investment and development group from the UAE, who began planning a large-scale and complex transformation of the site into a vibrant luxury business and residential area. (In my understanding, the development is not going forward at the moment, as the municipality of Budapest actually had the right of pre-emption and agreed to the terms of the contract, voiding the previous one.)

The development has been given the nickname "Mini-Dubai" by the locals, as the contract included changes to building regulations to allow for 250 and 500 metre tall skyscrapers to be placed in the area, with only 10% green areas required. (The tallest building in the city as of today is 143 metres, also part of a huge controversy as the view of the banks of the Danube is protected by UNESCO and the tallest allowed buildings are 90 metres.)

The development could lead to displacement and gentrification, creating unaccessible spaces while also disturbing the characteristic heritage of Budapest and the local districts. The contract also included complex infrastructure development worth approximately €800 million, undertaken by the state which would require serious redistribution and exploitation of public funds.

With plans of major changes to the district, foreign investors, as well as a transformation to the city skyline, this is both a local and a larger scale challenge, impacting all residents of Budapest.

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CQW5+M4 Bubulak, Bogor City, West Java, Indonesia

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CQW5+M4 Bubulak, Bogor City, West Java, Indonesia

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CQW5+M4 Bubulak, Bogor City, West Java, Indonesia

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Indonesia is an agricultural country, where most of its landscape consists of agricultural areas. However, the issue of food security remains the primary development agenda in the Republic of Indonesia, ensuring that the need for sufficient and nutritious food can be met. One of the programs of IPB University is to create an Edible Garden around the IPB Campus in Bogor City. Edible gardens are one form of urban farming. Urban farming has become a cultural phenomenon among people in urban areas in Indonesia. We from the Department of Landscape Architecture at IPB attempt to apply design principles and design patterns, enriching design elements in urban farming managed by the Community by creating a prototype example of an edible garden. This Edible Garden-Garden Tower is a Community Service project from IPB University architecture lecturers together with the Community as the main actors in urban farming, the USANA Foundation as a fund provider, women's farmer groups as Community companions, and the government. Plants that can be eaten from the garden include spinach, kale, Pak Choy, lettuce, tomatoes, chilies, and other vegetables. The plants are arranged using specific design patterns to create a neat and beautiful appearance. Through the Edible Garden program, the community can obtain organic vegetable planting without the use of chemicals, which is available close to their homes and is economically beneficial. This program also supports SDG 2, explicitly addressing food security.

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the Guilan Rural Heritage Museum in Rasht serves as a significant initiative to preserve and showcase the architectural diversity and traditional building crafts of the region. By reconstructing traditional villages that reflect various architectural styles from different parts of Guilan, the museum provides an interactive space for education and cultural exchange, emphasizing the role of local communities in maintaining and celebrating their heritage. ​

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Gilan Province, Rasht, Shariati Street, Gold Bazar of Rasht, Iran

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Gilan Province, Rasht, Shariati Street, Gold Bazar of Rasht, Iran

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Gilan Province, Rasht, Shariati Street, Gold Bazar of Rasht, Iran

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One notable example is the regeneration of the historical district of Rasht's Great Bazaar. This project focuses on revitalizing the area by leveraging the region's rich cultural and social features to develop a creative quarter. Such efforts underscore the importance of community involvement in preserving cultural heritage and fostering sustainable urban development. ​

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Eynak Lagoon (or Eynak Marsh, in Persian: مرداب عینک) is one of the largest natural lagoons in Rasht, Guilan, Iran. It is named "Eynak" (meaning "glasses" in Persian) because its shape resembles a pair of eyeglasses when viewed from above.

Location: Situated in the western part of Rasht, this urban wetland is easily accessible and an important recreational and ecological site.

Size: It is the second-largest freshwater lagoon in Guilan Province.

Biodiversity: The lagoon is home to various bird species, aquatic plants, and fish, making it a crucial habitat for local wildlife.

Recreation: The area around the lagoon is used for leisure activities such as walking, cycling, and birdwatching. There have been proposals to develop the site for tourism and eco-friendly recreation.

Environmental Challenges:

Pollution: Urban expansion and waste disposal have affected water quality.

Encroachment: Some parts of the lagoon have faced threats from construction and land reclamation.

Conservation Efforts: Local authorities and environmental groups have taken initiatives to protect and restore the lagoon’s natural ecosystem.

Eynak Lagoon is an important part of Rasht’s urban landscape, offering a mix of natural beauty, ecological significance, and recreational potential. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining its role in the city’s environmental and cultural heritage.

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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Canale Navile, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna

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A historic waterway with untapped potential for public use and ecological restoration. Once a key transportation route, parts of the canal are now neglected, with limited accessibility and environmental degradation. While some sections have been revitalized, others remain overgrown, underutilized, or difficult to integrate into the urban fabric. Also, many sections of the canal suffer from poor maintenance and pollution.

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A modern recreational area that has environmental concerns and accessibility issues. Rapid urbanization around the lake has led to water pollution and disruption of local ecosystems. Despite its potential as a public space, limited public transportation options make it difficult for many residents to access the area.

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University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD

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University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD

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University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD

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Sardasht, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Sardasht, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Sardasht, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran

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Grawan Spring, a natural attraction, draws people from all over the country but has been neglected by the authorities and suffers from mismanagement. The lack of an eco-culture has intensified the challenges. Furthermore, the authorities prioritize making profits over developing solutions to preserve this rare geophysical site. Additionally, Grawan is situated within farmland, next to a river, and surrounded by oak trees. Therefore, excluding these areas from any plans would be a significant mistake. Lastly, some misconceptions about tourism held by the authorities have rendered it impossible to reach a comprehensive plan and design so far.

In the upcoming seminar, I will attempt to illuminate the opportunities and challenges in greater depth, along with some ideas that may serve as solutions.

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Via Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli, 2, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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Residential area in Corticella, Navile district

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Via Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli, 2, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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Via Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli, 2, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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The image shows a residential area near Via di Corticella, currently undergoing construction for the green tram line that will connect Bologna's outskirts to the city center. The spaces surrounding the buildings are dominated by parking lots and asphalt areas, interrupted only by occasional fragmented green strips that remain underused due to the prevalence of cars. This setup reduces the livability of the area, contributing to phenomena such as the urban heat island effect during summer. How could the area be redeveloped to foster social interaction, encourage residents to reclaim their space, and exploit its full potential?

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Via Massimo Gorki, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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Byron polyclinic in Corticella, Navile district

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Via Massimo Gorki, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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Via Massimo Gorki, 40128 Bologna BO, Italia

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Covered passage of a cultural complex that houses a theater, a library, and community spaces, alongside essential services like the Byron polyclinic, a supermarket, a gym, and a primary school. During the day, public squares come alive with children playing under the watchful eyes of their parents. However, at night, the area faces challenges of neglect and degradation, likely due to its secluded location away from residential buildings. Could interventions aimed at enhancing cleanliness, safety, and social inclusivity help revitalize these spaces and encourage a sense of shared community even after dark?

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Via Daniele Manin, 25, 40129 Bologna BO, Italia

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Huge public park near schools, Navile district

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Via Daniele Manin, 25, 40129 Bologna BO, Italia

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Via Daniele Manin, 25, 40129 Bologna BO, Italia

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Public park in the Navile district, a vibrant hub for the community and a meeting point for families, thanks to its proximity to kindergartens and primary schools. However, the area is frequently affected by flooding during rainy days, which limits accessibility and full utilization of the park. Innovative solutions such as drainage systems and rainwater collection could prevent flooding and turn a problem into a sustainable opportunity, using the accumulated water during the hotter seasons to keep the greenery lush.

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Wind turbines have begun to appear in various locations across Iceland, many of which hold deep historical and spiritual significance for the local population. A major debate is currently underway regarding whether wind energy is truly a viable option for Iceland, given that the country has abundant geothermal resources readily available for power generation.

The primary concerns raised by Icelanders regarding wind energy include the following:

Unreliable and inconsistent electricity production

Environmentally unfriendly turbine materials made of non-recyclable plastic composites

Limited lifespan of only 10–15 years

Significant noise pollution

Severe visual pollution

Negative impact on bird populations

Dispersion of microplastics, Bisphenol-A (BPA), and PFAS chemicals (e.g., fluorinated compounds) over large areas

Potential alteration of local weather patterns

Ownership by foreign companies, often shell corporations based in tax havens (e.g., Norway)

Minimal to no job creation

Adverse effects on wildlife in areas where wind farms are established

Lack of research on the impact of offshore wind farms on marine ecosystems

Location, location, location – wind farms are often placed in scenic and culturally significant areas that Icelanders have cherished since the country was first settled.

Picture from: https://www.visir.is/g/20222345485d/thusund-vindmyllur

List 1 - 12 text, taken from:

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Avocado Production in Morocco's Souss-Massa Region

The Souss-Massa region in southwestern Morocco has become the country's avocado cultivation center, producing around 80% of national output. This development accelerated after the 2008 Green Morocco Plan, which capitalized on the region's Mediterranean climate and fertile soils. Investment in modern agricultural techniques transformed traditional farming into commercial production, creating an export-oriented industry that serves European markets from the Souss Valley's extensive orchards.

The region now faces pressing demographic challenges alongside its agricultural success. Water-intensive avocado farming has depleted groundwater resources, driving smaller farmers from rural areas to urban centers. Population growth in cities like Agadir has outpaced infrastructure development, creating housing shortages and straining public services. Regional authorities must balance economic productivity with sustainability concerns as they implement the Generation Green 2020-2030 strategy, which aims to address these environmental and social pressures while maintaining agricultural output.

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Milan is a city which is continously in progress where many realities take place at the same. The city’s landscape mirrors these dynamics: a mix of historic charm, modern urban development, and efforts to reconnect people with nature through greener and more sustainable planning approaches.

The city is grappling with challenges such as rising living costs and gentrification, which are reshaping its social fabric.Milan today is a city of contrasts and rapid transformation. As it is experiencing a booming real estate market and urban revitalization, a few neighborhoods as Porta Nuova are being transformed from industrial zones into high-end residential and business hubs, reflecting Milan’s growing allure as a global financial and cultural center. Overall, it's a concerning phenomenon as there is no control over constructions and respect to regulations, with a potential damage on urban greenery.

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Tegucigalpa is located on a chain of mountains with elevations of 975 metres (3,199 ft) at its lowest points and 1,463 metres (4,800 ft) at its highest suburban areas. Like most of the interior highlands of Honduras, the majority of Tegucigalpa's current area was occupied by open woodland. The area surrounding the city continues to be open woodland supporting pine forest interspersed with some oak, scrub, and grassy clearings as well as needle leaf evergreen and broadleaf deciduous forest.

The metropolitan area of both Tegucigalpa and Comayaguela covers a total area of 201 square kilometers (77.6 sq mi) while the entire Municipality of the Central District covers a total area of 1,396 square kilometers (539.1 sq mi).

Geological faults that are a threat to the neighborhoods on and below the hill have been identified in the District's high regions surrounding the capital.

The Choluteca River, which crosses the city from south to north, physically separates Tegucigalpa and Comayaguela. El Picacho Hill, a rugged mountain of moderate height, rises above the downtown area; several neighborhoods, both upscale residential and lower income, are located on its slopes. The city consists of gentle hills, and the ring of mountains surrounding the city tends to trap pollution. During the dry season, a dense cloud of smog lingers in the basin until the first rains fall.

Tucked into a valley and bisected by a river, Tegucigalpa is prone to flooding during the rainy season, as experienced to the fullest during Hurricane Mitch and to a lesser degree every year during the rainy season.

Despite being several thousand feet above sea level, the city lacks an efficient flood control system, including canals and sewerage powerful enough to channel rainwater back into the river to flow down to the ocean. The river itself is a threat since it isn't deep enough below the streets, nor are there levees high enough to prevent it from breaking out.There are more than 100 neighborhoods deemed zones of high risk, several of them ruled out as uninhabitable in their entirety.

There is a reservoir, known as Embalse Los Laureles, west of the city providing 30 percent of the city's water supply as well as a water treatment plant south of the city about 7.3 kilometres (4.5 mi) from the airport; part of the Concepción Reservoir just 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) southwest of the water plant.

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Wirikuta Sacred Locations

Photograph: Juan Negrín

Wirikuta is home to the sacred Peyote, a hallucinogenic cactus used by the Wixárikas (Huicholes) as part of their sacred spiritual practices that define them as an originary Indigenous community. Each year, the Wixárikas make a pilgrimage to Wirikuta to gather peyote, along with stops important for their spiritual practices. Wirikuta has been under threat from 78 concessions granted by the government to national and international mining companies, as well as a proposed toxic waste dump and a dam. Thanks to the Wixárikas' deep-rooted spiritual connection to their land, they have been able to take political action to prevent Wirikuta from being destroyed by extraction, pollution, and water manipulation.

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This is Reisterstown, MD, a medium sized town outside of Baltimore. Reisterstown road is a 5 to 6 lane road that runs through the center of Reisterstown. This road functions as a street and a road, doing neither in an optimal way. The sidewalks and businesses along the road make pedestrian access possible, and desirable, but having a busy, multi-lane road makes pedestrian experiences significantly less safe, and enjoyable. Problems also exist for drivers, since they can't move at the speed that multi-lane roads are often designed for, which means neither group of people has the optimal environment for movement.

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Aerial view of hog lagoons in eastern North Carolina

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North Carolina is one of the leading pork-producing states in the U.S. Smithfield Foods, the largest pork company in the world, is a major employer in rural eastern North Carolina. In some counties, hogs outnumber people by 40 to 1. The industrial-scale production of hogs takes place at CAFOs (concentrated animal feeding operations). These CAFOs produce staggering amounts of waste which is stored in hog lagoons. This results in water pollution as nutrients and waste enter the local waterways, as well as air pollution and horrible smells. The residents of this region report smells of decomposing body entering their homes through their air conditioning. Thousands of these residents rely on Smithfield Foods for employment while living with environmental hazards and poverty.

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Tehran Province, Tehran, Valiasr Street, Iran

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Tehran Province, Tehran, Valiasr Street, Iran

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Tehran Province, Tehran, Valiasr Street, Iran

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Making Valiasr Street more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient by involving the community in its design, protecting public spaces, preserving its cultural heritage, and addressing environmental issues like flooding, water scarcity, and heat.

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This is a winding country road that is popular with cyclists, but has no shoulder or bike lanes, making it too dangerous for children to bike along. The speed limit is too fast to encourage safety for walking or biking, especially for children.

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Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of the most overcrowded and polluted cities in the world. Its rapid urbanization attracts people from all over the country seeking job opportunities, but this influx has led to overwhelming congestion in a city already struggling for space. Every inch is occupied by buildings or roads, leaving little room for breathing spaces like even a small park. Citizens have minimal involvement in urban planning and decision making, limiting their ability to create a change. As a result, the city faces severe environmental degradation and escalating health issues due to extreme pollution.

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The rapid, unregulated construction during the early 2000s, coupled with a lack of urban planning, has led to significant challenges for residents. These include persistent traffic congestion, a lack of public space as buildings occupy every inch of available sidewalk (often with extensions encroaching overhead), and a severe shortage of parking. Moreover, any remaining green spaces are being quickly replaced by towering skyscrapers. The shops located at the bases of these buildings are a direct consequence of illegal extensions, further contributing to the urban issues.

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In 2013 it became known that the part of the park close to my block of flats was given back to the owners from before the neighbourhood was built. A while nothing happened, except that it was not taken care of. This, despite the protests of the inhabitants around. The part of the park was not green space in the urban plans. However, the major of Bucharest tried to protect it. Without success, as you can see. He argued that the area has dense vegetation. In one hot summer most of the trees got poisoned. Then these were cut. Then also the big platan trees, 50-70 years old were cut one after the other. Then also the small vegetation at the fences around such as tuia. The destroyers were helped by the fact that once the city hall renovated the heating pipes under the park so it could not be entered anymore. Now a smaller park, closer to my block of flats, is also treatened. The major put a big fine, and the owner who got back the land was died since one year, now there are no official inheritants. But look how it looks now!

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The community's involvement in maintaining the area's integrity showcases a form of democratic engagement where residents and visitors collectively contribute to preserving its cultural and ecological heritage. This collaborative effort ensures that Darakeh remains a cherished space for recreation, reflection, and connection with nature, embodying the principles of landscape democracy. People visit Darakeh at various times of the day and throughout the week. The Darakeh Cultural Center offers free and open-to-all educational programs, including yoga, Shahnameh reading, self-awareness courses, and bird watching. . Special patrols are in place to enforce these regulations.