As part of the GreenCityLabHuế project, concepts for the small-scale implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) in the form of green infrastructure elements were developed in a design competition together with students and representatives of civil society. They are referred to as “showcases for nature-based solutions” and are intended both to demonstrate what can be achieved with NbS in terms of climate adaptation and air quality improvement and to gather valuable experience for their planning, implementation and maintenance in Huế. These small-scale, place-based examples of NbS will help to create a shady and cool public space for residents on hot days, thereby improving local quality of life and climate resilience. Short films will be made for all 4 showcases to document their implementation and impacts.
In August 2024, the GreenCityLabHue project together with the winning team of the design competition “Hue Initiative – Green Space, Green City” implemented the construction of vertical greening elements on the schoolyard of the An Dong Green Elementary School. With the enthusiastic support of the school’s pupils, several vertical greening elements were installed along the walls of the school building, as well as free-standing green elements to provide shade, which were planted with a wide variety of plant species. The locations of these elements were carefully selected to ensure the steady water supply for the planting system and to maximize their benefits in terms of their provision of ecosystem services, such as cooling of the air through shade and evapotranspiration. The schoolyard is currently completely sealed and offered the children little shade and few opportunities for recreation before the vertical green elements were implemented. All green elements were equipped with a customizable irrigation system.
The project aims to both create more spaces for playing, reading, and relaxing for the children and also offers children the opportunity to learn about plants and their care as well as the effects of nature-based solutions, thus contributing to environmental education and education for sustainable development. The green elements will help to improve air quality and create more comfortable microclimatic conditions at the schoolyard, thus adapting the school to increasing hot weather conditions. They also help to make the school playground more aesthetically pleasing.
The GreenCityLabHue project would like to thank everyone involved for the successful cooperation, especially the People’s Committees of Hue City and An Dong Ward, the school management of An Dong Elementary School, the winning team of the design competition, the manufacturers of the metal frames for the green elements and all the hard-working helpers from the school and the neighborhood.
