Selection of an experimental area for the implementation and promotion of green infrastructure prototypes
Aim
Define a representative pilot area where the implementation of green infrastructures can be explored and generate data and information on the “implementation” of these infrastructures.
Description
The experimental space refers to a representative area within a city (a street or a neighbourhood) where green infrastructure can be explored to solve local problems. Through the process of selecting the area, we seek to understand the perceptions of problems and proposed solutions by decision-makers. In turn, we seek to identify partners and understand their vision for implementing green infrastructure, which translates into getting local support for the design and implementation process.
This first step refers to identifying problems that could be solved with green infrastructure, e.g. through literature review, news reports and field visits.
2. Involvement of local actors
Involve professionals, civil servants or inhabitants with knowledge of the region and local problems, who can suggest potential areas for intervention given the project’s objectives.
Identify a target group (professionals, civil servants and/or neighbours) and establish a strategy for active involvement in the selection of the experimental area.
SEE-URBAN-WATER: For SUW the target group was the municipalities in the Quebrada Seca river basin.
Bring together the target group to present and explain the engagement strategy and the objective of submitting proposals for implementation sites.
Define a format for the formulation and presentation of proposals under a common scheme.
SEE-URBAN-WATER developed a proposal format that allowed the target group to present their site proposals in a homogeneous way for comparison/evaluation. (See proposal submission format for pilot area)
3. Evaluation of sites proposed by the target group
Establish selection criteria that are in line with the project objectives and expected results.
SEE-URBAN-WATER elaborated a table describing all aspects relevant to the project and assigned a range of values for the selection criteria.
Analyse each proposal and give a value for each selection criterion.
Conduct an analysis of the proposed site using satellite imagery or Google, to identify its spatial position and other information that cannot be easily identified on site.
Interview the authors of the submitted proposals bilaterally. Conduct field trips with proponents to analyse in-situ characteristics of potential sites: observations and evidence gathering. Find out the motivation of the proposal and analyse if it is congruent with the objectives of the project.
Find out the ownership status of the proposed sites, document the cadastral base.
Find out about regulations, norms and/or restrictions that limit or condition the implementation of the green infrastructure to be implemented.
SEE-URBAN-WATER: In our case, knowledge of urban street and pavement design and construction regulations, accessibility law, and wastewater treatment and discharge regulations was indispensable.
Tip: Know whether permits from the municipality or other authorities are required before implementing the project. Ensure the respective permitting procedures are in place in advance, before raising expectations about the project and moving on to the next steps.
(See publication by Veronica Neumann. A Methodology of Policy Assessment at the Municipal Level: Costa Rica’s Readiness for the Implementation of Nature-Based-Solutions for Urban Stormwater Management. https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/1/230)
Define/justify with the help of the selection criteria and field observations which is the most suitable space for the implementation of green infrastructure.
SEE-URBAN-WATER: In our case we sought to select a site that would maximise the expected outcomes and the different benefits that green infrastructure can promote in practice, exploring the multi-functionality of the infrastructure and the location of the site. It was also intended to motivate local partners to get involved and provide support (short, medium and long term) in the operation and maintenance. It is recommended to consider also the interest in scaling up/replication.
4. Communication of the selection result
Share with all stakeholders the results of the selection process of the experimental area and the activities to be developed in the short term.
Results
Selection of an experimental space for the implementation of green infrastructure prototypes in a real-life context, considering the particularities of the site and the priority problems. The selection based on a nomination process by a target group allows, in addition to the selection of the experimental space, to achieve greater acceptance, ownership and motivation for the project. The set of proposals, including those that are not selected, results in a comprehensive documentation of perceptions of problems and conceptions of solutions that allow for a better understanding of the local context and the involvement of local actors.
Rules
Clear formulation of both the objectives of the project and the purpose of selecting an experimental area.
The selection process should be transparent, documented and communicated.
Scopes and challenges
Select a site that has appropriate biophysical characteristics for the implementation of green infrastructure, but there is little interest from key project partners.
Despite selecting a suitable site, the future absence of key stakeholders necessary for the project to progress may hinder its progress.
