Find us at the Park

This event will serve as a dialogue platform for attendees of the World Urban Forum to explore the model of the "Find Us at the Park" project, implemented by the Budaiya Hub (Global Shapers Chapter in Bahrain). Participants will learn about the project's successful initiatives, including the "Nature's Melody" event, where community members identified local species using the iNaturalist app, contributing to Bahrain's national directory of species.
Initially launched to promote community engagement with parks, the project gained significant momentum when UN-Habitat recognized its potential and supported the initiative. This collaboration led to the assessment of 158 parks across Bahrain and enabled Budaiya Hub to assume a supporting role in UN-Habitat's Bahrain Nationwide Public Space and Afforestation Assessment.
Discussions will focus on exchanging good case practices for conducting similar projects, with special emphasis on the importance of data gathering—particularly temperature readings—as a critical measure in our efforts to combat climate change. By collecting and analyzing temperature data, we can better understand the microclimates within urban parks, which will aid in selecting efficient materials and designing spatial settings tailored to the needs and preferences of residents.
Public engagement will play a vital role in this process, utilizing surveys and on-field interviews to gather comprehensive feedback on thermal comfort from a diverse range of community members, including women, men, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. This inclusive approach will ensure that all voices are heard, creating a detailed census of how different demographics experience park environments. By understanding these varied perspectives, we can ensure that urban planning decisions enhance comfort and usability while fostering a sense of ownership and belonging among all residents. Ultimately, this data-driven and community-informed strategy aims to improve the design and functionality of urban green spaces, particularly in areas facing challenges like the urban heat island effect.