ZEINA ALJA'AJA'A (Sanabel Studio, Amman) - RETHINKING SUSTAINABILITY IN OUR URBAN CITY LANDSCAPES

Introduction to the Seminar

Welcome and Overview

• The speaker welcomes attendees to the electronic seminar, highlighting the agenda for the day.

• Two speakers are introduced: Engineer Zina Jaja from Sanabel Office in Amman and Dr. Samar Al-Nazir from Birzeit University, Palestine.

Purpose of the Seminar

• The seminar focuses on sustainable development techniques applicable to public spaces, particularly green areas in the Levant region.

• This event is part of a competition for "Green Spaces" organized by Belgian agencies and aims to foster collaboration between various projects.

Speaker Introduction: Engineer Zina Jaja

Background and Expertise

• Engineer Zina Jaja has 19 years of experience in urban design and sustainable landscape architecture across the Arab world.

• She collaborates with Sanabel Office, known for its holistic approach to sustainable landscape design.

Contributions and Projects

• Zina's work spans various scales, contributing significantly to both local and regional projects while participating in numerous publications.

Presentation by Engineer Zina Jaja

Presentation Structure

• The presentation will be conducted in Arabic with English subtitles available for broader accessibility.

Focus on Urban Sustainability

• The discussion centers around urban sustainability within Arab cities, questioning whether they are truly sustainable or merely theoretical concepts.

Understanding Urban Sustainability

Defining Sustainability

• Sustainability encompasses environmental, economic, cultural, and social dimensions; it is crucial to understand its practical implications within Arab cities.

Challenges Faced by Arab Cities

• Rapid urban expansion leads to loss of agricultural land and natural habitats; this is compounded by climatic challenges such as drought and water scarcity.

The Role of Designers in Urban Development

Impact on Natural Processes

• Designers have a structural influence on natural processes through their projects; they must be aware of their responsibilities when creating designs that affect communities.

Collaborative Approach Required

• Effective urban design requires collaboration among professionals with diverse expertise; a holistic approach is essential for addressing complex urban issues.

Understanding the Importance of Context in Design

The Role of Place in Design

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of understanding the context when designing projects, especially for students transitioning from university to professional work.

• It is crucial to analyze the geographical and environmental aspects surrounding a site, including its climate and existing natural elements like trees and rocks.

• Different locations require tailored design approaches; for instance, designs in Jerusalem differ from those in Gaza or other regions due to varying contexts.

• Designers should consider local cultural identities and how they influence project outcomes, ensuring that designs resonate with their respective communities.

Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Sustainability

• The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of social and cultural dimensions within sustainability efforts, stressing that these are not merely goals but essential considerations.

• Cultural values must be respected and reflected in designs to create meaningful connections between people and places.

• Social needs vary across demographics; understanding these differences is vital for creating inclusive spaces that cater to all community members.

Community Engagement in Design Projects

• A case study from Aqaba illustrates how community involvement transformed a neglected public space into a vibrant area where locals and tourists can interact comfortably.

• Effective communication with the community is essential; without it, trust issues may arise during project implementation, leading to challenges such as vandalism or neglect of facilities.

Practical Examples of Inclusive Design

• The speaker shares experiences from designing public spaces like King Abdullah II Circle in Amman, which aimed at enhancing accessibility while considering aesthetic elements like water features.

• Adjustments were made based on feedback regarding sightlines for drivers versus pedestrians, showcasing adaptability in design processes to meet diverse user needs.

Community Engagement and Cultural Sustainability in Urban Design

Public Interaction with Urban Spaces

• The speaker expresses joy at observing community engagement with urban design, noting that even in a busy area filled with fast-moving cars, people are interacting positively with the space.

• Contrasting images show public interaction; one side depicts negative perceptions of crowded areas while the other highlights successful public spaces where families and children engage joyfully.

• Emphasizes the importance of cultural sustainability, which reflects local identity through historical customs and traditions within urban spaces.

Importance of Local Culture

• Discusses a project in Saudi Arabia aimed at revitalizing an underappreciated area by integrating local culture into public spaces, enhancing community pride and connection to their heritage.

• Highlights research into social characteristics and agricultural festivals unique to the region, showcasing how these elements can inform urban planning.

Enhancing Community Connection

• The speaker mentions discovering unique geological features that could attract tourists while also benefiting local communities through thoughtful design.

• Introduces concepts like urban forests or natural areas within cities to strengthen residents' ties to their environment and enhance community identity.

Economic and Environmental Sustainability

• Discusses innovative designs for play areas that blend cultural roots with modern aesthetics, aiming to create engaging environments for families.

• Explores the relationship between environmental sustainability and economic viability, arguing that maintaining ecological balance leads to long-term economic benefits rather than short-term gains from destructive practices.

Addressing Pollution and Resource Management

• The conversation shifts towards understanding sustainable city development as it relates to resource management—emphasizing the need for careful planning around inputs (like water sources).

• Describes how excessive outputs can lead to pollution if not managed properly, stressing the importance of balancing resource use with environmental health.

Vision for Regenerative Practices

• Advocates for regenerative practices that allow resources to replenish naturally without waste or pollution impacting ecosystems negatively.

• Concludes by emphasizing the necessity of recycling efforts in urban planning, ensuring materials are reused effectively within local contexts.

Green Infrastructure and Its Importance

Understanding Green Infrastructure

• The concept of green infrastructure is introduced as a way to integrate human-made structures with nature, emphasizing the need for cities to address climate change through urban greening.

• Green infrastructure encompasses networks of natural areas and open spaces that relate to urban planning, highlighting its applicability at various scales from small gardens to entire neighborhoods.

• Examples of green infrastructure include public parks, rain gardens, bio-swales for stormwater management, and rooftop gardens, showcasing diverse applications in urban design.

Environmental Benefits

• Green infrastructure significantly improves water quality by managing stormwater runoff effectively; plants can filter and slow down water flow into sewage systems.

• Ecosystem services provided by green infrastructure are highlighted as free environmental benefits that enhance groundwater recharge and reduce the need for costly drainage systems.

Climate Mitigation and Biodiversity

• The role of green infrastructure in mitigating climate impacts is discussed, including creating microclimates that improve outdoor comfort during hot weather.

• It promotes biodiversity by providing habitats for wildlife while improving soil health through nutrient cycling facilitated by appropriate plant selection.

Social Impacts on Community Health

• Increased community interaction is linked to well-designed green spaces; more people using these areas leads to improved physical health outcomes due to increased activity levels.

• The interconnectedness of environmental sustainability with social and economic factors is emphasized; healthy environments contribute to lower healthcare costs and enhanced community well-being.

Multifunctionality in Design

• The importance of multifunctionality in design is stressed; elements should serve cultural, social, environmental, and economic purposes simultaneously.

• Case studies illustrate how investments in green infrastructure can lead to property value increases and enhanced commercial vitality through attractive landscapes.

Economic Considerations

• Sustainable practices in urban planning can yield significant cost savings; examples from Indianapolis show substantial financial benefits from implementing effective stormwater management strategies.

• Denmark's focus on green infrastructure contributes not only to environmental improvements but also enhances overall happiness among citizens through better living conditions.

Water Management and Urban Infrastructure

Challenges of Water Scarcity and Flooding

• The speaker discusses the paradox of water scarcity in the region, highlighting instances of sudden flooding (flash floods) that can occur despite overall water shortages.

• Flash floods can lead to significant urban disruption, with water levels rising up to 70 cm above street level, causing damage to shops and vehicles.

Sustainable Solutions for Water Management

• Emphasizes the potential savings (up to 44%) in costs associated with stormwater management through improved infrastructure like green roofs.

• Green roofs not only conserve energy but also provide habitats for wildlife and areas for food production.

Urban Design Considerations

• Discusses how proper design of urban spaces, including tree placement, can mitigate heat islands and improve local climate conditions.

• Highlights the importance of multi-use solutions in urban planning that promote environmental sustainability while accommodating human needs.

Innovative Rainwater Management Techniques

• Introduces concepts such as rain gardens which help manage stormwater by allowing it to infiltrate into the ground rather than overwhelming drainage systems.

• Rain gardens can filter rainwater before it reaches groundwater supplies, reducing pressure on existing networks.

Community Engagement and Agricultural Integration

• Describes a project in a valley area where urban parks are designed alongside agricultural plots that community members can cultivate for income.

• This integration aims to balance urban development with natural landscapes while promoting sustainable practices among residents.

Climate Adaptation Strategies

• Discusses how strategic planting of trees around buildings can significantly reduce indoor temperatures by providing shade and improving air circulation.

• Stresses the need for climate-responsive design tailored to local conditions rather than adopting models from different climates without consideration.

Localized Microclimate Benefits

• Underlines that shaded areas under trees can be up to 14 degrees Celsius cooler compared to unshaded spots during high temperatures.

• Encourages thoughtful selection of plant species based on their shading capabilities and their role in creating comfortable microclimates within urban settings.

This structured approach provides a comprehensive overview of key discussions regarding water management, sustainable infrastructure, community engagement, and climate adaptation strategies as presented in the transcript.

Development of the Hashemite Square

Historical Context and Initial Design

• The Hashemite Square was historically significant, originally featuring Roman amphitheaters and gardens. The area underwent development to enhance its historical essence.

• A local design team rejected foreign designs, opting instead for a thorough analysis of existing designs to ensure cultural relevance and functionality.

Design Challenges and Considerations

• Concerns arose regarding seating arrangements, shade availability, and accessibility for various user groups (families, elderly).

• The design needed to accommodate both eastern and western parts of Amman, focusing on efficient access routes and public transport options.

Environmental Sustainability in Design

• Emphasis was placed on creating shaded areas with diverse plant life that would thrive in different seasons while minimizing maintenance needs.

• Urban furniture was designed to be multifunctional, encouraging children's play while integrating with the local climate and culture.

Water Conservation Strategies

• Discussion included the implementation of drought-resistant gardens using native plants that require less water.

• Efficient irrigation systems were highlighted as crucial for reducing water usage by up to 50%, alongside soil management techniques to minimize disease and evaporation.

Local Materials and Economic Impact

• The project utilized locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact from transportation while enhancing aesthetic appeal through natural stone variations found in Amman.

• Sustainable practices were emphasized in Islamic garden designs, aiming for low-maintenance landscapes that also contribute positively to urban temperatures.

Innovative Solutions for Urban Spaces

• The design aimed at creating visually appealing entrances with minimal maintenance requirements while reflecting local identity.

• Consideration was given to material choices affecting heat absorption; darker materials were evaluated for their potential impact on surrounding temperatures.

Sustainable Urban Design and Community Engagement

Importance of Technology in Sustainable Practices

• The speaker emphasizes that reliance on water elements or any other resources in gardens should not be unsustainable, highlighting the need for technology to stem from genuine needs rather than imposed trends.

• There is a warning against technological overload, which can distract from addressing real environmental, social, and cultural issues within communities.

Collaborative Approaches to Urban Planning

• The necessity for collaboration between public and private sectors is stressed; designers play a crucial role as facilitators connecting these sectors to ensure sustainable public spaces.

• Successful community gardens worldwide illustrate how involving the community in design and execution can reduce maintenance costs while fostering social interaction.

Participatory Design Principles

• The concept of participatory design is introduced, which encourages social interaction and addresses community problems through collective solutions leading to social justice in urban planning.

• An example of a participatory project at Abu Alaa Al-Maari Park showcases how different groups (men, women, children) have unique needs that must be considered during the design process.

Challenges in Community Projects

• Acknowledgment of challenges faced during participatory projects where community priorities may conflict with funders' expectations; this highlights the importance of listening to local voices.

• The speaker reflects on lessons learned from past projects where external consultants failed to address community needs effectively, resulting in pushback from residents.

Role of Environmental Considerations

• Emphasis on the role of architects and landscape designers extends beyond aesthetics; they must also consider ecological impacts as part of their responsibilities towards clients including public sectors and communities.

Resources for Green Space Design

• Introduction of a publication developed with GIZ focusing on criteria for selecting trees and shrubs for public green spaces. It provides guidelines tailored to various climates and terrains found across Arab cities.

Discussion on Landscape Design and Water Management

Importance of Online Resources

• The website contains valuable resources about the project, including direct download links for materials in both English and Arabic.

• Emphasizes the utility of these resources for engineers and municipalities, aiding in design, execution, and management of public spaces.

Practical Guidelines for Plant Selection

• Discusses a practical guide that assists professionals in selecting appropriate plants based on specific criteria.

• Highlights the significance of understanding local environmental conditions when choosing vegetation.

Challenges with Water Features

• Raises concerns about water scarcity affecting Mediterranean regions, impacting landscape designs that rely on water features.

• Questions how to manage water features effectively when municipal supply is inconsistent or limited.

Innovative Design Approaches

• Describes an innovative approach to creating aesthetically pleasing water elements without relying on large basins.

• Explains how design choices can minimize evaporation while maintaining visual appeal through strategic planting.

Dynamic Landscape Design Considerations

• Stresses the need for dynamic landscape design that adapts to changing weather patterns and urban usage scenarios.

• Encourages designers to consider various scenarios such as flooding or drought when planning landscapes.

The Role of Trees in Urban Environments

Benefits Beyond Aesthetics

• Discusses trees as multifunctional elements providing shade, reducing heat, and improving air quality by filtering pollutants.

• Highlights their role in supporting biodiversity by offering habitats for wildlife like birds and insects.

Biodiversity's Importance in Cities

• Addresses the critical role of biodiversity within urban settings, emphasizing its impact on human health and well-being.

• Suggesting that enhancing green corridors can improve ecological balance while benefiting residents psychologically.

This structured summary captures key discussions from the transcript regarding landscape design challenges, innovative solutions, and the importance of biodiversity within urban environments. Each point is linked to its corresponding timestamp for easy reference.

The Importance of Biodiversity

The Role of Birds and Plants in Ecosystems

• Discusses the significance of having birds and trees to create habitats essential for various species, including butterflies.

• Highlights the critical role bees play in human survival; their extinction could lead to dire consequences for food availability and air quality.

Natural Predators and Waste Management

• Explains how natural predators help control diseases by managing waste, as they consume harmful bacteria and assist in decomposition processes.

• Shares an innovative example from Belgium where crows are trained to clean up cigarette butts, demonstrating a natural solution to urban waste management.

Interconnectedness of Nature

• Emphasizes that without pollinators like bees and butterflies, trees cannot bear fruit, illustrating the cyclical nature of ecosystems.

• Notes that engineers often overlook biological details that are crucial for understanding ecological relationships among organisms.

Educational Initiatives in Finland

• Describes a practice in Finland where children play with soil containing beneficial microorganisms, promoting natural immune system development through interaction with nature.

• Mentions local plants being cultivated for consumption by children, fostering a connection between them and their environment while providing free nutritional sources.

Closing Remarks on Collaboration

• Concludes with gratitude towards participants for their engagement during the session, emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration in environmental initiatives.

• Expresses hope for future discussions on biodiversity topics and acknowledges contributions from various organizations involved.