Urban tree-planting initiative modeled after New Zealand's approach, set to introduce fruit-bearing trees in urban areas across Buzău, Southern Romania
In the heart of southern Romania, the city of Buzau is embarking on an exciting new venture – the "Orasul Comestibil" ("Edible City") project. This initiative, spearheaded by local councilor Laurentiu Stipléanu, aims to transform the city's green spaces into productive, food-bearing landscapes as part of a local sustainable and community-oriented movement.
The project, currently in the public consultation phase, is inspired by successful international examples, including Auckland, Nelson, and Waiheke Island in New Zealand, as well as cities within the European Union. If approved, the first fresh fruits could appear in Buzau as early as next year.
The project encompasses several stages. Initial implementation includes planting edible plants in public spaces, with the goal of realising visible edible fruit crops in the near future. The project plans to create zones with fruit trees, edible shrubs, and aromatic plants, freely accessible to all residents.
The "Orasul Comestibil" project goes beyond simple landscaping to represent a local expression of environmental and food sovereignty ideas. It belongs to a broader global and local movement promoting sustainable urban landscapes that provide food directly in the city environment.
While specific funding sources for the project have not been explicitly detailed, it is expected that funding might originate from municipal budgets, local partnerships, or environmental grants. The project may also attract sponsorships and non-reimbursable funds.
The project includes identifying suitable green spaces, planting fruit trees and edible shrubs, setting up 3 pilot edible urban gardens, creating an interactive digital map of edible plants, organizing educational workshops, and community activities for space maintenance.
The project's goal is to promote sustainable and healthy food sources within the city of Buzau, providing residents with direct access to healthy, chemically untreated fruits and plants. If successful, Buzau could become a shining example of urban sustainability and community-driven initiatives.
[1] Moara dintre Foc și Pământ - A Potential Collaboration Partner for Buzau's Edible City Project. (2021). Retrieved from [url] [2] Buzau's Edible City Project: A Local Expression of Environmental and Food Sovereignty Ideas. (2021). Retrieved from [url] [3] Buzau's Edible City Project: First Fruits Expected Next Year. (2021). Retrieved from [url]
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