Cities mobilize residents to expand green spaces

Cities are expanding and maintaining urban green spaces through a mix of public planning and community participation. In Seoul’s Gwangjin district, trained residents are creating and tending neighborhood gardens and parks, volunteering across 13 sites and showcasing their work at the Seoul International Garden Expo. Moscow has expanded its parks and recreational green spaces and planted millions of trees and shrubs, selecting species to suit local conditions and needs. In Ho Chi Minh City, new rules encourage businesses, organizations and residents to help invest in and care for parks, green spaces and water bodies, while emphasizing coordinated, sustainable development and public benefit. Da Lat’s Xuan Huong ward is preparing flower-lined streets and public spaces for its flower festival by mobilizing households, schools, businesses and community groups to plant, maintain greenery and clean their neighborhoods.