The "Jardins+Nossos" project, presented by IHM - Investimentos Habitacionais da Madeira, aims to revitalize green spaces in the island's social housing neighborhoods by replacing invasive and exotic species with endemic plants.
The initiative arose from the observation by a young biology student, Júnio Jardim, regarding the prevalence of non-native species in public gardens, even in urban areas. The pilot project will be implemented in a garden in the Nazaré neighborhood, Funchal, which has recently been cleared and prepared for planting.
Trees such as the Marmulano and the Madeira Laurel, along with endemic shrubs, will be planted. Planting activities, involving the local community and associations, are scheduled for October 15 and 22. IHM plans to extend the project to other areas under its responsibility, such as the Romeiras and Nogueira neighborhoods.