Japanese Urban Garden and Tree-Lined Streets Initiative

The City of Zenica has undertaken a series of green infrastructure measures focused on urban forestation and landscape enhancement. One standout project involved the creation of a Japanese-style urban dry garden near the Radakovo roundabout along the Babina River. Though not primarily designed to combat the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, these measures indirectly contribute to cooling the environment and improving urban resilience. The Japanese garden was planted with various species of decorative plants, trees, and ivy, with a total investment of 14,020.11 KM. Additionally, the city is restoring old tree-lined streets and planting new ones, contributing to long-term urban greening.

- Site selection at Radakovo roundabout and the M17 area
- Landscaping and soil preparation
- Installation of an irrigation system
- Planting of 40 dwarf trees, 50 tulips, 50 Siberian dogwoods, ivy, shrubs, and ornamental plants
- Decorative elements: gravel sections and rocks typical of Japanese dry gardens
- Ivy was planted along the regulated Babina riverbed to green the adjacent wall
- Implementation of tree restoration and new planting across various city locations

Technological solutions include installing a fully automated irrigation system to support plant survival and minimise water waste. Gravel was used as a weed-suppressing and decorative element, while decorative stones enhance aesthetics and reduce soil erosion. No special city permits were required beyond standard landscaping regulations.

While the initiative was led by city authorities, it gained strong local support due to its aesthetic and ecological benefits.
The public was involved informally through neighbourhood feedback and engagement during planting events. Local appreciation has boosted awareness of urban greening and environmental well-being.

- Transformation of an underutilised space into a visually and environmentally beneficial area
- Reduction in surface temperatures due to added vegetation (estimated microclimate improvement, though not yet measured)
- Enhanced biodiversity and habitat creation within the urban core
- Improved aesthetic and mental health benefits for residents
- Strengthened ecological corridor along the Babina River

One challenge was ensuring long-term maintenance. This was addressed by installing an automated irrigation system and selecting low-maintenance plant species.

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