2024 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the GIZ sponsored the implementation of the ILCA pilot project set up to develop elements of green infrastructure at selected sites in East Amman, in collaboration with the Greater Amman Municipality as an implementation partner and the jordanian Ministry of Environment as the political partner.

The approach adopted by ILCA was holistic, focusing on the development of green infrastructure to improve access to public spaces, mitigate environmental risks, and foster community participation. By leveraging the Miyawaki method, which involves soil engineering and careful selection of native plant species, ILCA aimed to create urban forests that would enhance biodiversity, regulate air temperature, and increase carbon sequestration. This innovative approach, previously successful in dryland areas and deserts, was adapted for the urban context of East Amman for the first time.

This approach, facilitated by close collaboration with stakeholders such as the Ministry of Environment and local communities, emphasized community ownership and inclusivity in decision-making processes. By engaging residents in the design, planning, and management of green spaces, ILCA fostered a sense of ownership and belonging while addressing specific needs, particularly those of women and girls.

The project not only improved urban well-being but also contributed to environmental sustainability and resilience. By integrating green infrastructure into urban planning, ILCA aimed to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and promote a more sustainable and livable urban environment. Furthermore, ILCA aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11, SDG 13, and SDG 15. By addressing local challenges in water-scarce environments and promoting innovative solutions for urban greening, ILCA exemplified a replicable model for sustainable urban development, with implications extending beyond the context of Amman to inform practices in other rapidly urbanizing regions globally.

Through its participatory approach and emphasis on collaborative governance, ILCA demonstrated the potential for inclusive decision-making processes to drive positive change in urban development. By empowering local communities and fostering partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and residents, ILCA laid the groundwork for a more resilient and equitable urban future in East Amman and beyond.

• https://www.giz.de/en/worldwide/83767.html (External link)