DR. SAMAR NAZER (Birzeit University, Palestine) - SUSTAINABLE GREEN PUBLIC SPACE AND PARK DESIGN

Introduction to the Green Spaces Initiative

Overview of the Event

• The speaker welcomes attendees and expresses gratitude for their participation in the seminar.

• Acknowledgment of partners involved in the initiative, including Birzeit University and Belgian agencies.

• Introduction to "For Green Spaces," a collaborative project aimed at enhancing public spaces in specific areas.

Purpose and Structure of the Seminar

• Announcement that participants can receive certificates for attending, with an online exam option available.

• Emphasis on Dr. Samar Nazer's significant contributions to sustainable green space design, highlighting her extensive experience.

Dr. Samar Nazer's Expertise

Background and Qualifications

• Dr. Nazer has 40 years of academic experience and 25 years of practical engineering work.

• Her focus includes landscape perception, environmental design, and plant design.

Contributions to Academia

• Dr. Nazer has published numerous academic works, contributing significantly to her field.

Sustainable Design Principles

Importance of Public Parks

• Discussion on sustainability in park design as part of the "For Green Spaces" competition.

Key Considerations for Design

• The need to consider climate conditions, materials used, and water conservation during design processes.

Defining Landscape Architecture

Understanding Landscape Concepts

• Various definitions exist for landscape architecture; it is often associated with aesthetics but also involves community interaction with land.

Interaction with Space

• Landscape is defined by how people perceive and interact with their environment—whether it's mountains or deserts.

Public Space Accessibility

Characteristics of Effective Public Spaces

• Public spaces should be accessible to all demographics regardless of age or ability.

UN Habitat Guidelines

• Reference made to UN guidelines emphasizing inclusivity in public space design.

Sustainability Goals

Global Sustainability Challenges

• Discussion on Palestinian efforts towards sustainability amidst historical challenges faced over the past century.

Designing for Health and Education

• Emphasis on incorporating health benefits, education opportunities, renewable energy solutions into urban designs.

Ecological Footprint Awareness

Understanding Carbon Footprint

• Explanation of ecological footprint as a measure of land required per person throughout their life cycle—including food production and waste management.

The Importance of Sustainable Public Spaces

Understanding Footprint and Sustainability

• Discusses the concept of "footprint" in relation to waste management and sustainability, emphasizing the need for space to dispose of waste effectively.

• Highlights the importance of minimizing resource consumption, including water and energy, when designing public spaces to ensure sustainability.

Design Considerations for Public Spaces

• Stresses that during the design phase, it is crucial to consider the environmental footprint and material usage to create sustainable structures.

• Emphasizes that sustainable design should also focus on reducing emissions during construction and throughout the lifespan of public spaces.

Benefits of Green Public Spaces

• Outlines various benefits of green public spaces, particularly parks, which provide fresh air and recreational opportunities that contribute to mental health.

• Notes that access to parks can help alleviate stress caused by work pressures, especially in challenging environments like Palestine.

Connection with Nature and Health

• Explains how views of nature from hospital windows can enhance recovery times for patients, supported by studies linking greenery with improved health outcomes.

• Shares a personal experience where being in a natural setting aided recovery after surgery, highlighting the therapeutic effects of nature on mental well-being.

Addressing Community Needs through Design

• Discusses how reducing stress through access to green spaces can improve overall community morale and stability among youth.

• Mentions examples such as healing gardens designed specifically for patients suffering from depression or Alzheimer’s disease.

Practical Applications in Palestine

• Describes a project involving students creating sensory gardens for individuals with autism, showcasing practical applications of inclusive design principles.

• Highlights successful integration of different sensory experiences into garden designs aimed at enhancing patient engagement and interaction with nature.

Economic Aspects of Public Parks

• Points out that aesthetically pleasing parks not only beautify urban areas but also have economic benefits by improving residents' mental health and productivity.

• Suggests that frequent visitors to well-designed public spaces tend to have better psychological states leading to increased productivity across various professions.

Opportunities Created by Urban Parks

• Discusses potential entrepreneurial opportunities within city parks through kiosks selling products or offering activities that engage community members.

• Concludes with observations about local initiatives aimed at empowering women through market opportunities within park settings.

Discussion on Park Design and Job Creation

Overview of Park Development

• The speaker discusses the role of parks in job creation and small business opportunities, particularly for women.

• Emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that cater to both recreational and educational needs, mentioning original designs for areas within the park.

Educational Benefits of Parks

• Highlights how parks can serve as educational resources, allowing visitors to learn about local flora and fauna.

• Mentions a specific botanical garden project initiated in 2003 at Birzeit University, focusing on native plant selection.

Native Plant Selection

• Discusses efforts made by the speaker and Dr. Mahmoud Al-Attari to select indigenous plants for a botanical garden, enhancing local biodiversity.

• Notes that the garden was named after a maple tree brought from the mountains by Dr. Al-Attari.

Biodiversity Initiatives

• Introduces another project focused on biodiversity at a center in Tel, Nablus, emphasizing native plants from Palestine and surrounding regions.

• Describes collaboration with Bethlehem University’s Institute for Biodiversity to create community gardens where locals can grow vegetables and fruits.

Design Considerations for Green Spaces

• Discusses design proposals for botanical gardens based on various climate zones and native species.

• Suggests incorporating rock gardens featuring cacti and other drought-resistant plants into park designs.

Goals for Green Public Spaces

• Outlines objectives such as improving biodiversity, reducing climate change impacts, and addressing pollution through thoughtful design choices.

• Stresses the need to consider climatic conditions when designing green spaces to ensure they are sustainable.

Material Use in Park Construction

• Advocates using local materials like stones and wood in construction to enhance sustainability while considering environmental conservation practices.

• Emphasizes inclusivity in design by accommodating diverse community needs regarding health, religion, ethnicity, etc., ensuring everyone feels welcome.

This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Renewable Materials and Sustainable Design

Importance of Renewable Materials

• The use of renewable materials is crucial for design, allowing for reuse or recycling, such as utilizing recycled car parts for playground surfaces.

• Emphasis on non-toxic materials is essential to ensure safety for children, particularly in water-scarce regions where water conservation practices are necessary.

Waste Management Strategies

• Creating designated areas in parks for solid waste management from garden maintenance and food waste can promote composting and resource recovery.

• Discussion on the limited effectiveness of wind energy in certain areas compared to geothermal energy, which involves deep ground pipes to maintain stable temperatures.

Solar Energy Utilization

• Solar panels are highlighted as the most effective renewable energy source in Palestine, with examples from local institutions showcasing their implementation.

• Vegetation plays a significant role in modifying microclimates; using evergreen trees can help reduce wind impact while maintaining ecological balance.

Community Engagement through Gardening

• The importance of planting deciduous trees in southern regions to maximize sunlight exposure during winter months is discussed.

• Advocating for community gardens that include edible plants fosters awareness among children about environmental stewardship and agricultural traditions.

Cultural Significance of Native Plants

• The integration of native plants into landscaping not only supports biodiversity but also connects cultural heritage with environmental practices.

• Encouraging the cultivation of traditional crops like olives and figs reinforces cultural identity while promoting sustainable agriculture.

Understanding Plant Types

• Clarification on the definitions of native, indigenous, and introduced plants emphasizes their roles within local ecosystems.

• Native plants naturally occur within specific geographic zones; understanding this helps inform better landscaping choices that align with local ecology.

Historical Context of Plant Introduction

• Discussion on how introduced species can become naturalized over time; examples include pine trees planted by colonial powers that have since integrated into local landscapes.

• Insights from experts highlight the complexities surrounding plant classification and adaptation within different climates.

Discussion on Indigenous and Local Plants

Importance of Native Flora

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of native plants, particularly in relation to their adaptation to local environments, highlighting that certain trees have existed long before current agricultural practices.

• A specific mention is made of the need to cultivate these plants, which are naturally found in mountainous regions alongside other species like pine and oak.

Definitions and Classifications

• The terms "indigenous" and "local plants" are discussed as interchangeable; both refer to species adapted to a smaller region within a larger area.

• The concept of "endemic plants" is introduced, defined as species that exist only in a specific area, such as the Iris haynei found exclusively in Faqou'a.

Exotic vs. Introduced Plants

• Exotic plants are described as those brought from outside but have adapted well to local conditions; examples include Magnolia grandiflora seen in Ramallah.

• Introduced plants differ from exotic ones as they were intentionally brought for specific benefits, such as food production (e.g., Pinus pinea).

Invasive Species Concerns

• Invasive species are highlighted for their aggressive growth patterns that threaten native flora; an example given is Alantus altissima, which proliferates widely and disruptively.

• The speaker warns against planting invasive species due to their detrimental effects on biodiversity and local ecosystems.

Vegetation Zones in Palestine

• A discussion on vegetation zones within Palestine reveals how local flora supports biodiversity; this information references Michael Zohary's work despite its Israeli context.

• The Mediterranean zone is identified as crucial for plant diversity, with geographical maps illustrating various ecological areas relevant to plant life.

Plant Associations and Adaptations

• Different plant associations depend on soil types and rainfall amounts; notable examples include Quercus calliprinos (oak).

• Specific adaptations of flora are noted based on environmental conditions, emphasizing the importance of preserving these unique plant communities.

Conservation Efforts

• The speaker stresses the urgency of conservation efforts for endangered plant species observed over time due to habitat loss or neglect.

• Recommendations include cultivating native trees in gardens, especially those suited for mountainous areas.

This structured summary captures key discussions about indigenous plants' importance, definitions related to plant classifications, concerns regarding invasive species, vegetation zones' relevance in Palestine, adaptations among different flora types, and conservation efforts necessary for maintaining biodiversity.

Plant Species in the Coastal and Mountain Regions

Overview of Plant Diversity

• Discussion on various types of plants found between forests and coastal plains, highlighting the unique species present in specific locations like Birzeit.

• Mention of oak trees in mountainous areas and the prevalence of sycamore trees along the coast, particularly in cities like Jaffa, Gaza, and Haifa.

Iranian-Turanian Zone Flora

• Description of plant life in the Iranian-Turanian zone, including significant species such as Ziziphus lotus (often referred to as lotus or nabq) and Artemisia.

• Introduction to various sage species that thrive in this region, emphasizing their ecological importance.

Desert Flora Characteristics

• Examination of desert flora around the Rift Valley near Jordan Valley and Arava Valley; noting low rainfall leading to sparse vegetation.

• Identification of native plants like Acacia species that are adapted to arid conditions; includes images for visual reference.

Acacia Varieties

• Discussion on multiple varieties of Acacia, including those that thrive in saline environments near the Dead Sea.

• Reference to natural reserves around the Dead Sea where these plants flourish despite harsh conditions.

Water-Loving Plants

• Exploration of plant species that thrive near water bodies, such as Nymphaea (lotus), Nerium oleander (oleander), and others that prefer moist environments.

Challenges in Landscape Design Projects

Project Independence Park Insights

• Acknowledgment from participants about learning from a detailed presentation on landscape design considerations related to geography.

Execution Challenges Faced

• Inquiry into challenges encountered during the execution phase of Independence Park project; highlights differences between initial designs and final outcomes.

Key Issues Identified:

• Major issues included land allocation conflicts due to existing structures affecting design implementation.

• Emphasis on sustainability principles being integrated into design but facing obstacles during execution due to external factors influencing site management decisions.

This structured summary captures key discussions regarding plant diversity across different regions while also addressing challenges faced during landscape design projects. Each bullet point is linked with timestamps for easy navigation back to specific parts of the transcript.

Discussion on Landscape Design and Environmental Impact

Changes in Design and Natural Areas

• The design has undergone significant changes, leading to higher costs. There is a noticeable loss of natural elements in the area that was previously designated as a natural zone.

• A comparison is made between the initial design presented by Dr. Samar and the current outcome, highlighting discrepancies between expectations and reality.

• The central area, which used to be filled with trees, has been transformed into a children's playground. This change has resulted in substantial deforestation for new developments like the "Monument of Catastrophe."

Concerns About Development Choices

• While acknowledging the need for development, there are concerns about better locations for such monuments that would not disrupt existing natural areas.

• Local administration should ensure adherence to designs chosen from competitions when executing projects, emphasizing accountability in urban planning.

Plant Selection and Environmental Considerations

• Discussion on how local municipalities should prioritize native plants during project implementations to maintain ecological balance.

• Questions arise regarding how to manage existing trees within sites; it’s suggested that local plants can be integrated effectively into landscape designs.

Native vs. Exotic Plants

• Emphasis on using local flora that thrives in specific environments while also considering some exotic species that adapt well to local climates.

• Examples of compatible plant pairings are provided, such as olive trees alongside oak or pine trees, promoting biodiversity.

Practical Applications in Landscaping

• When designing around olive trees, it's crucial to leave space around them without planting other vegetation directly underneath.

• Attention is drawn to color coordination and texture compatibility among plants when creating landscapes; this includes considerations for sunlight exposure.

Historical Context and Future Directions

• The speaker reflects on past landscaping practices in Palestine, particularly around Bethlehem's region where wild plants thrive under olive trees during springtime.

• Mention of specific tree species like Callistemon (bottlebrush), which have struggled with climate adaptability over time but were once prevalent in urban settings like Ramallah.

This structured summary captures key discussions from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific points made during the conversation.

The Importance of Symbiosis in Plant Growth

Symbiotic Relationships Among Plants

• Discussion on the concept of symbiosis, where different plant species support each other’s growth and health by providing protection against diseases and pollution.

• Reference to the Quran mentioning figs and olives, highlighting their interdependence; certain trees can protect each other from pests and diseases.

• Emphasis on the necessity of planting compatible species together, such as olives and figs, to enhance their resilience.

Natural Plant Life and Landscape Management

• Acknowledgment of natural plants that are beneficial for insects and bees; importance of maintaining these plants during spring for ecological balance.

• Critique of landscape management practices that prioritize uniformity over biodiversity; natural landscapes should reflect dynamic ecosystems rather than controlled environments.

Field Studies and Tree Identification

• Importance of accurately mapping tree locations and types in site plans; field visits can help identify endangered tree species.

• Suggestion that aerial images could assist in determining existing tree types in various locations.

Recommendations for Plant Selection

• Advice against using annual or short-lived perennial plants due to high maintenance needs; recommend focusing on trees, shrubs, and climbing plants for sustainability.

• Mention of local herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage as valuable additions to gardens due to their low water requirements.

Local Knowledge in Agriculture

• Discussion about traditional knowledge regarding useful plants for environmental remediation, particularly those effective in wastewater treatment like eucalyptus.

• Recognition of the significance of local agricultural practices passed down through generations; emphasis on continuing this tradition for sustainable land use.

Discussion on Soil Nitrogen and Upcoming Events

Acknowledgments and Reflections

• The speaker expresses gratitude for the information shared, emphasizing the importance of notes taken during the session. They highlight that these notes will remain accessible in the transcript for future reference.

• Appreciation is extended to listeners, with hopes that they found value in the lecture. The speaker encourages continued engagement with upcoming sessions.

Upcoming Meetings

• A reminder is given about three meetings scheduled for tomorrow, starting at 9:30 AM, where various topics will be discussed.

Community Engagement and Experiences

• Discussion includes insights from municipal experiences regarding public green spaces, specifically referencing a notable engineer who studied under Dr. Samar.

• Mention of Abdullah Hamad's work on plant selection in a garden project, showcasing practical applications of learned concepts.

Student Achievements

• The speaker expresses pride in their students' accomplishments and highlights their dedication to following exemplary paths set by their educators.

• Final thanks are given to Dr. Salma Nazer and encouragement for students to continue engaging with educational opportunities.