At the beginning of June, a large group of students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong visited Augustenborg in Malmö to learn more about urban blue-green solutions. There were many questions and interesting discussions about resilience and sustainability in various contexts.
It can be challenging to walk around with 40 people, making sure everyone has a chance to both see and hear, but with this group, everything went smoothly.
Of course, everyone was up for a selfie! 😊
Waste sorting in Greenhouse, Augustenborg
The group visited the Greenhouse in Augustenborg, Malmö, where they learned about the innovative waste sorting system in place. The facility emphasizes sustainability by encouraging residents and businesses to separate waste into various categories, ensuring materials are recycled and composted effectively. The system also focuses on reducing waste sent to landfills and promoting circular economy principles. The visit highlighted the importance of waste sorting in urban sustainability and sparked discussions on how similar systems can be implemented in other cities to minimize environmental impact and maximize resource recovery.
The group explored the Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) in Augustenborg, Malmö, which serve as an excellent example of how urban areas can manage stormwater sustainably. The SUDS solutions in this neighborhood include permeable surfaces, green roofs, rain gardens, and bio-retention areas, all designed to reduce flooding and improve water quality. The systems are integrated into the landscape, creating beautiful, functional spaces that also contribute to biodiversity. The visit sparked engaging discussions about how SUDS can be applied in other urban settings to promote resilience and environmental sustainability.
The group had the opportunity to visit the Augustenborg Botanical Roof Garden, a stunning example of how green roofs can contribute to urban sustainability. Located on the rooftops of municipality buildings, this garden showcases a variety of plants that help manage stormwater, reduce energy consumption, and enhance biodiversity in the city. The roof garden also acts as an educational space, demonstrating the benefits of integrating nature into urban environments. It was an inspiring stop, sparking discussions on how such green infrastructure can be expanded in cities worldwide to improve both the environment and quality of life.
Photo cred all photos in this post: Danyang Lei