Young People Reimagine Ankara Through Nature-Based Solutions

The seminar welcomed 29 participants, who worked in five multidisciplinary groups to design nature-based solutions for real urban locations across Ankara. Using maps, site descriptions and the Co-ADAPT Solution Evaluation Checklist, participants assessed each area from ecological, social and climate adaptation perspectives before presenting their proposals to the other groups.

The workshop focused on five pilot sites: the Wide Median Area, Esat Market and its surroundings, the park near the Mamak Municipal Building, the Ayrancı Backyard Green Line, and the neglected space between two schools. Participants proposed a wide range of ideas, including rain gardens, rooftop gardens, ecological corridors, wildlife passages, rainwater harvesting systems, community pocket parks, medicinal plant gardens, outdoor learning spaces, and multifunctional green infrastructure designed to improve biodiversity, reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and strengthen community engagement.

The evaluation results highlighted the success of the seminar's participatory methodology. All respondents stated that the seminar met their expectations, while the overall satisfaction score reached 4.56 out of 5, exceeding the results of the first stakeholder seminar held in April. Participants particularly appreciated the interactive group work, practical design exercises and the opportunity to collaborate on real urban challenges. Many also noted that the knowledge gained would be valuable for both their future studies and professional careers.

As the second and final seminar organised in Ankara within the Co-ADAPT project, the event demonstrated the important role young people can play in shaping climate adaptation through nature-based solutions. Their proposals and feedback will contribute to the project's ongoing efforts to promote community-led, locally adapted solutions that make cities more resilient, biodiverse and livable.

On 8 May 2026, Ankara University hosted the second Co-ADAPT Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) Seminar, bringing together young participants to explore how nature can help address urban challenges. Organised by the Nature Conservation Centre (DKM) within the framework of the Co-ADAPT (Community-Based Climate Adaptation and Biodiversity through Small-Scale Nature-Based Solutions) project, the seminar encouraged participants to develop creative, community-driven ideas for a greener and more climate-resilient Ankara.