Cracknell’s projects in the arid regions of the Middle East offer valuable lessons on sustainable park design. Given the increasing severity of the climate crisis, it is imperative for landscape design consultants to incorporate resilient techniques early on in project development. Three case studies from Dubai illustrate approaches to irrigation, planting and parks in the Middle East as we collaborate with UK’s Landscape Institute in exploring Pioneering Parks of the Future.
“Implementing water-efficient irrigation practices in public parks is a relatively small but important aspect of tackling climate emergency“
As the climate emergency intensifies, conserving natural resources has become an urgent priority. In terms of public parks, managing our water resources wisely through responsible and efficient irrigation, coupled with improved planting media and selection of place-appropriate and locally available plants, plays a critical role in resilience for long-term sustainable maintenance and reduction of water consumption.
By utilising responsible water conservation and horticultural strategies, we can effectively maintain the vibrant green spaces parks provide while reducing their impact on water demand and increasing their contribution to local sense of place.
Colleen D’Souza, Director of Horticulture, Mohan Baporikar, Director of Irrigation and Rajan Dewan, Group Design & Technical Director explore resilient, efficient and adaptable techniques learned from their extensive work in the Middle East that can be brought to the UK’s 200,000ha of parks and green spaces.
Read their article in the Landscape Journal here
