What are “pocket parks”? Which plants are considered “natives”, and which are “non-natives”? How does air temperature change in cities that have fewer green spaces? Which is better – concrete or paving stones? Should we mow or not to mow the grass, and if so, how should we do it? Who lives in city parks?
The international conference within the project Development of Green Infrastructure in the Cross-border Area of the Siedlce Municipality, Horodok Community and the Pryvilne Community became the first significant environmental event in the current Programme period on the Ukrainian side. It also brought together like-minded people who are not indifferent to the issues of climate change and the transformation of our cities – ecologists, urban planners, architects, and representatives of local governments. The issues discussed during the event, and those that the project will address, affect all communities on both sides of the border.
Over the past decades, uncontrolled urbanization processes have led to the disappearance of green spaces in urban areas. In cities where surfaces are largely covered by impermeable materials such as concrete, the amount of biologically active surfaces is rapidly decreasing. Buildings and paved surfaces heat up during the day and release it at night, leading to the formation of urban heat islands. A high proportion of impermeable surfaces also reduces the degree of water retention. The disappearance of greenery decreases habitats for birds and insects, including pollinators, which are important for maintaining biodiversity – they are responsible for the reproduction of most cultivated and wild plant species. The inaccessibility and poor quality of green spaces negatively affect the quality of life. People need not just cities, but also living environments that provide health, comfort, and safety. Green spaces and water are not a luxury, but a basic necessity for the sustainable development of cities and communities. Modern urban planning must address the challenges posed by climate change and create conditions for a happy, fulfilling life for residents.
CitiesOfGreen project is a response to the needs of three communities. In the city of Siedlce, the green infrastructure is insufficient, and the number of green public spaces is low. In Horodok, the central park, established in the last century, is characterized by cluttered, chaotic tree planting, poor accessibility, and there is no lighting. Meanwhile, the village of Ivanne (Pryvilne community), has no park at all.
As part of the project, 9 pocket parks – small parks created by converting vacant spaces into green areas – will be developed in Siedlce, covering a total area of 10,491 m2. The park in Horodok will be reconstructed and transformed into a modern, accessible public space. Additionally, in the Pryvilne community, a new park will be created with the preservation of all existing trees. It will have a children’s area and outdoor exercise equipment. Other planned activities include training for young people, distribution of seedlings, development of scenarios and plans for environmental lessons, methodological recommendations for teachers, an educational game “Who is squeaking in the park?”, lectures, workshops, and an environmental picnic. After all, community involvement and environmental education are important elements of any environmental initiative. An Action Plan for Nature Conservation in the Border Areas of Poland and Ukraine will be developed, which other communities will be able to use in the future.
The project of park reconstruction is an important step in the development of Horodok. We are confident that the implementation of this plan will not only improve the appearance of the historical centre but will also signify the changes towards comfort and eco-friendly living – says Iryna Tochena, the project coordinator.
We also hope that the positive experiences of this project will foster the introduction of nature-oriented solutions in other communities in Poland and Ukraine.
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