I ECOTOURISM

The project also includes a wilderness park that features a bird sanctuary, a botanical garden, and a research center to be built in the future. There is also a small camping area made up of light structures or wooden tree houses. Eighty percent of the land has been designated for greenery to care for the environment, flora, and birds that exist in that part of the Jordan River. A sustainable approach is used to protect the wilderness with evergreen plants and vegetative ground cover, as they are droughtresistant.

A bamboo art installation that links the Baptism Development Zone and the Baptism site, where light effects and users can interact with the installation by hearing hymns and sounds

In addition to considering factors such as climate, topography, soil, and water resources, we study the ecosystem and biodiversity of an area. Understanding the local fauna and flora is critical for designing outdoor spaces that not only serve human needs but also benefit the environment and its inhabitants.

For example, in our Baptism Development Zone project, we took into account the local birds’ habitat and incorporated a bird sanctuary into the wilderness park. This sanctuary serves as a refuge for birds and promotes their survival, which is essential for maintaining the area’s ecological balance.

Different species of birds drawn by Prof. Kamel O. Mahadin, FASLA, MK Associates.

Incorporating ecological and biodiversity considerations into landscape architecture design helps promote the conservation of natural resources and sustainability. Landscape architects must work with other professionals, including ecologists and environmentalists, to design outdoor spaces that are beneficial to both humans and the environment.

With climate change and a growing population posing significant environmental challenges, the need for sustainable outdoor spaces is increasingly important. The proposed Baptism Development Zone project is an excellent example of how landscape architecture can be used to create a world-class destination for religious tourism while preserving the natural beauty of the area and promoting sustainable development. The project’s vision and approach focus on the protection and restoration of the natural environment, the conservation of the wilderness, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It also aims to create a must-visit recreational destination that provides innovative opportunities for visitors to engage with the wilderness, including education and research centers, ecotourism activities, and economic contributions to the park. Overall, landscape architecture is a critical field that can contribute significantly to building a more sustainable future for all.

An Archipelago of Venues in Thessaloniki’s ConfEx Park