Barranquilla is a city in the north of Colombia that stretches along the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Known for its wetlands and tropical forests, it has a population of 1.3 million and faces serious challenges due to the frequent hurricanes that hit the region. In order to protect themselves from these natural disasters, the city authorities launched a major project to restore local waterways and green spaces, with the support of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
One of the key elements of this project is the restoration of the Mallorcan wetland, which covers 600 hectares. It acts as a natural shield against storm surges and sea level rise, absorbing and reducing wave energy before they reach urbanized areas.
As part of the restoration, 250,000 mangroves and other trees were planted. Mangroves are important for their dense root systems that not only prevent coastal erosion, but also filter pollutants from the water, providing shelter and food for many species of fish and birds. In addition, work was also done on over 200,000 square meters of new public green areas that serve as recreational zones and help improve the city’s microclimate, as stated on the UNEP website.
Barranquilla is also working to improve the Gran Malecón, the promenade along the Magdalena River, designed to protect the city from flooding. The Magdalena River, key to the country’s hydrography, and the Gran Malecon serves as a promenade with numerous green areas, which further contributes to the city’s resistance to climate change.
Apart from Barranquilla, other Colombian cities such as Medellín and Cali apply similar natural strategies. Medellín has planted thousands of trees along roads and canals, turning them into green corridors that connect different parts of the city. Kali, the host of COP16, has launched a number of projects for wildlife protection and invasive species management.
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Source: energetskiportal.rs
