Landscape Istanbul Fair 2024 to deliver thought leadership and product innovation!

When Landscape Istanbul Fair 2025 (LIF 2025) opens its doors from 08-11 October, it will host an impressive line up of international thought leaders and market leading suppliers for four days of high-quality industry content and business exchange.
The World Urban Parks Symposium will be held for three days between 08-10 October 2025, where it is free to attend for pre-registered delegates.
Boasting a line-up of international speakers who are undoubtedly some of the most knowledgeable and influential experts in their field, attendees will be treated to presentations detailing case studies and latest thought leadership on key issues for planning and maintenance of parks and urban green spaces.

Tim GEYER
Chair of World Urban Parks

Tim has a Bachelor Degree in Urban Horticulture and is a Certified International Parks Professional. With a strong passion for Urban Parks, Tim has over 45 years’ experience in, Local Government in Australia, in strategic, financial and operational management of the Parks, Urban Landscapes and Recreational services. Experiences including overseeing multi-discipline teams in the technical and operational delivery of Parks and Open Space, Playgrounds, Indoor and Outdoor Sports facilities, Aquatic Centres, Bushland Management, Tree Management, Showgrounds, Museums and Historical sites. Major projects completed included redevelopment and preservation of heritage listed sites, development of major sporting complexes and revitalisation of CBDs and Urban Spaces Within World Urban Parks, Tim has carried out the role of Co-Chair on the Advocacy Committee – Older Adults in Parks, served as a Juror on the Large Urban Parks Awards, Co-chairs the Asia Pacific region and now is WUP Chair. Tim prides himself as striving to provide leadership and a global voice, championing to bring about change in government policy, professional design & management of urban parks and increased participation within urban park throughout the wider global community.

"Reflecting on the past, with an Eye on the Future for Community Health and Wellbeing."
(13:15 - 14:00)

With nearly 50 years of experience in the parks sector, Tim Geyer reflects on how technology and societal shifts have impacted urban green spaces—both positively and negatively. While automation and digital distractions contribute to sedentary lifestyles and declining health, urban parks remain vital for community well-being. This session explores the urgent need to view parks as essential health infrastructure, supported by growing evidence linking quality green spaces to reduced non-communicable diseases. The challenge ahead: ensuring all communities have access to well-designed, health-promoting urban parks.

Emanuel TRUEB
Director of Basel City Gardens

Meet Emanuel Trueb, the Head of City Gardens and Cemeteries in Basel since 1992. He holds a Diploma in Agriculture and serves as a Board Member of the Building and Transport Department of Kanton Basel-Stadt. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing parks, cemeteries, allotments, nature conservation, and the city’s greening initiatives.

“Sponge City Principle as a Measure in Climate Change”
(15:15 - 15:40)

For several years, the city of Basel has focused on the design and construction of public road space based on the sponge city principle. A new district is currently being designed entirely according to this principle.

Dr. Ahmet Cemil TEPE
Head of EU Fund Project Committee at Green Istanbul - Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality

Dr. Ahmet Cemil Tepe has 18 years of experience in landscape planning and design for education, public and private sectors. Dr. Tepe, who serves as the Head of National and International Fund Projects Committee within Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, develops projects for climate change adaptation, nature based solutions and green infrastructure. He has served on several European Union projects such as sponge cities, xeriscaping and blue-green infrastructures. He also served as a leader on the preparation of YAYSIS (Green Areas Administration System Strategy) documents. He continues his educational studies as a research associate in Medipol University and Istanbul University.

“Tree Master Plan Proposal for Climate Change Adaptation in Istanbul Based on Municipality–Producer Collaboration”
(15:40 - 16:05)

A collective Tree Master Plan, supported by YAYSIS data, is proposed for combating climate change in Istanbul, based on collaboration between producers and municipalities. Solutions and strategies, which are compatible with industry and informed by the field data, will be presented.

Nihan Sevinç MUŞDAL
Manager of the Native Plants Collection at Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden

She graduated from Istanbul University with degrees in Forest Engineering (2009) and Landscape Architecture (2011). In 2019, she completed her master’s thesis on the planning and design of botanical gardens. Since 2009, she has been working at Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden, where she manages the native plants collection and, since 2010, coordinates and teaches the Practical Horticulture Course in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Since 2014, she has pursued training with Fergus Garrett at Great Dixter House and Gardens on “Succession Planting.” Currently, her PhD research focuses on enhancing the use of native plants in landscape design.

"Our Plant Richness, Istanbul, and What’s Disappearing: A Journey in Search of Nature"
(16:15 - 17:45)

The unique plant diversity of Türkiye and Istanbul, as well as the historical and ecological importance of this richness, will be addressed. Participants will learn how we can preserve nature’s memory and ensure the sustainable use of these plants in urban life. Following the presentation, a workshop will take place where audience will embark on an interactive exploration through local plants; they will engage in plant identification, the concept of ecological memory, and design their own 'mini ecosystem' using small-scale, nature-friendly practices.

Fergus GARRETT
Chief Executive of the Great Dixter Charitable Trust

Fergus garrett is the CEO and head gardener of the great dixter charitabe trust. Born in brighton,uk.he grew up in istanbul before studying horticuture at the university of london. He joined great dixter in 1993 after working in france and switzerland. Fergus is internationally acclaimed as a gardener and has been awarded the veitch memeorial medal and the victoria medal of honour for his services to education and horticulture.

"Great Dixter: How a Garden can Support Great Biodiversity"(10:40 - 11:25)

Great dixter’s biodiversity audit showed the garden to be far richer in species than the countryside around it. The studies at great dixter shed light on the complex habitats which support life including some of the most threatened species in the united kingdom. This means that all gardens can play their part in supporting wildlife collectively forming a mosaic system which can be replicated in towns and cities. The greatdixter study has been influential throughout the world and has been refereed by many as the most important horticultural research done internationally in the last 25 years. If you are measuring biodiversity as the number of different species per m3 Great Dixter is in the top 10 richest places in the United Kingdom.

Pawel GRADOWSKI
Professional Landscape Architect at LASquare - Landscape and Aquatic Architecture

Pawel Gradowski (BCSLA, SACLAP, CSLA, IFLA is a distinguished landscape architect and the founding director of LASquare – Landscape and Aquatic Architecture, renowned for his expertise in the design of outdoor sports facilities and aquatic landscapes. With over 40 years of extensive international experience spanning Canada, South Africa, and beyond, Pawel masterfully blends exceptional design skills with comprehensive construction knowledge. His impressive portfolio features a variety of urban projects, including public parks and recreational areas, where he consistently integrates innovative stormwater management systems and intricate aquatic designs, all grounded in a practical and ecologically responsible philosophy. Pawel´s work demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainable urban water management practices. An accomplished author, he has written numerous articles on landscape architecture and water feature design in both Canada and South Africa. His significant contributions to the field include the publication of the "Water Features Designer’s Handbook," a nearly 700-page comprehensive manual for the design and construction of water-related infrastructures, including water features and rainwater harvesting systems.

"From Runoff to Resource"
(11:25 - 11:50)

Urban parks can play a key role in addressing climate challenges by managing stormwater and supporting water reuse. This session explores how nature-based solutions—like rain gardens, swales, and wetlands—can transform parks into multifunctional infrastructure. These systems reduce flooding, support irrigation, and improve urban resilience. Through real-world case studies and practical strategies, participants will learn how to design parks that actively contribute to the urban water cycle, turning runoff into a resource while enhancing ecological and community value.

Zina ABDULLA
PhD Researcher at University of Bath

Zina Abdulla is a PhD researcher in Architecture and Urban Design at the University of Bath, with a background in architecture and environmental design. Her research focuses on equitable access to urban green spaces, exploring how cultural, social, and economic barriers affect ethnic minority communities in the UK and Poland. Zina combines participatory methods with urban policy analysis to develop inclusive planning frameworks for green infrastructure. She has worked with local authorities and charities on green infrastructure initiatives, and contributes to regenerative design dialogues. She is a fellow of the Young Arab Leadership Programme and formerly served as Deputy Chair of the Board for a real estate development firm in Baghdad. Also professionally trained in public policy and leadership areas as conflict resolution, corruption, segregation… etc.

“Green Equity”
(11:50 - 12:15)

Investigating barriers to accessibility to urban green spaces in the UK and Poland. Focusing on marginalised communities, i.e, ethnic minorities, community members in highly deprived areas, and people with disabilities. Through participatory research methods, we can qualitatively investigate these barriers and redefine accessibility in terms that consider more than distance alone.

Ceylan BELEK OMBREGT
Managing Partner at Martha Schwartz Partners

Ceylan Belek Ombregt is a registered Landscape Architect practicing in the United States, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Based in London, she is Partner and Studio Director at Martha Schwartz Partners, where she leads major international projects. With over eighteen years of experience, she has worked at OLIN in Philadelphia, Istanbul’s Municipality, and top urban design firms. She holds degrees from RISD, ITU, and the University of Istanbul, plus an MBA Essentials Certificate from LSE. A researcher, lecturer, and published author, she has taught and reviewed at leading UK and international institutions.

"Landscape and Imagination"
(13:15 - 14:00)

Our cities face urgent challenges - from the climate emergency and rising density to social inequities and declining wellbeing. We believe landscape architecture, driven by imagination, can transform these pressures into opportunities for more resilient, inclusive, and joyful urban environments. Through project examples, we will demonstrate how landscape becomes both a framework for problem-solving and a catalyst for envisioning a better future.

Gabino CARBALLO
Founder and Project Coordinator at Natural Base Solutions SL

Gabino Carballo, Environmental Agrobiologist | Project Manager | Landscape Architect, Gabino is a seasoned landscape architect with over 25 years of experience in green infrastructure, urban biodiversity, and sustainable landscape design. As Founding Partner at Natural Base Solutions SL, Gabino specialises in integrating Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) into urban green spaces. His work spans public and private sector projects, where he focuses on ecological gardening, water management, and the promotion of biodiversity in urban environments. A recognised thought leader in the field, Gabino is a regular speaker at international conferences and workshops. He also has a strong background in education, having taught and coordinated courses in landscape architecture across various institutions. His expertise has earned him several awards for sustainability and innovation in landscape design. He is now develiong a Training Kit for the URWAN project.

“URWAN | Urban Regenerative Water Avant-garde”
(14:00 - 14:25)

URWAN Project addresses the critical link between urban regeneration and resources, exploiting nature-based solutions’ role in integrating water management and climate change adaptation. The project involves 9 partners from 7 Mediterranean countries, who will jointly implement activities affecting the decision-making process to multiply the impacts of public funds. The partnership capitalises on innovative participatory approaches and existing Nature Based Solutions (NBSs) while demonstrating the importance of making these solutions multifunctional.

Pedro FERNANDEZ
MedCities Project Officer at Interreg Euro-MED URWAN Project

With academic background on environmental science, I have more than 19-years experience in coordinating and contributing to projects in the field of governance, planning, policy development and pollution prevention in the Mediterranean region and beyond. I am specialized in field and policy support projects with the aim of greening cities and implementing Nature-based Solutions, as well as regarding the prevention of plastic waste pollution. I’m currently acting as MedCities Project Officer for the Interreg Euro-MED URWAN project, which mission is to showcase innovative solutions for adapting to climate change and addressing water scarcity through a participatory, nature-based approach.

“URWAN | Urban Regenerative Water Avant-garde”
(14:00 - 14:25)

URWAN Project addresses the critical link between urban regeneration and resources, exploiting nature-based solutions’ role in integrating water management and climate change adaptation. The project involves 9 partners from 7 Mediterranean countries, who will jointly implement activities affecting the decision-making process to multiply the impacts of public funds. The partnership capitalises on innovative participatory approaches and existing Nature Based Solutions (NBSs) while demonstrating the importance of making these solutions multifunctional.

Humera SULTAN
Consultant in Public Health and Doctoral Research Fellow at Birmingham City Council and University of Birmingham

Humera is a Consultant in Public Health at Birmingham City Council, in the United Kingdom. She is also a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Doctoral Local Authority Research Fellow. She led on the Naturally Birmingham project – an ambitious plan to strategically place nature at the centre of the Council’s decision making –which resulted in the city´s 25 year City of Nature Plan. During this time, she set up her own volunteer group to help look after her local park. She has also led the Physical Activity agenda for Birmingham Public Health. Humera holds a Master’s degree in Public Health and has acted as a specialist Consultant at three different Local Authorities in the UK. Currently, Humera holds an NIHR fellowship for undertaking her PhD on investment in parks at the University of Birmingham.

“Creating a fairer city through adequately funding parks”
(14:25 - 14:50)

Birmingham City Council, Europe’s largest local government office, has responsibility for maintaining over 400 urban parks for 1.2 million people. This session will focus on understanding how the funding for parks has changed from 2013 to 2024, and on how this is linked to the quality of parks across the City.

Dr. Agr. Fritz LORD
Global Crop Manager at Compo Expert - Küresel Ürün Yöneticisi

Study of horticultural and agricultural science at University Geisenheim and Humboldt University Berlin, Germany. PhD in phytopathology (PGPR rhizosphere interactions) at Humboldt University. Since 2008 working for COMPO EXPERT, a worldwide active fertilizer and biostimulant manufacturer. As a Global Crop Manager Turf responsible for technical consultation and product development in golf- and sportsturf, amenity as well as urban green area and landscape. 2014-2022 board member of the International Turf Grass Society (ITS); 2016-2024 vice president of the European Turf Grass Society (ETS).

"Eco System Services of Urban Green Areas: Meaning-Maintaining-Monitoring related to Climate Change"
(15:20 - 16:05)

Public green areas should meet the defined requirements for special forms of use and are also offering valuable eco system services. Due to climate change issues, turf grass for recreation and sports as well as trees in city parks have to cope with different abiotic and biotic stress factors. Plant health and vitality is crucial for plants functionality. Implementation of sustainable concepts, stress response, improvement of stress tolerance by preventive measures and precise digital monitoring are main topics of this presentation.

Msc. Erik KAISER

Erik Kaiser studied Economics and Engineering in the Technical University of Darmstadt with a specialisation on Earth Observation and AI Technology. During his studies he founded Karuna Technology in Frankfurt within the Business Incubation Program of the European Space Agency. Currently many ongoing projects (e.g. New York, Florence, Rome, Mannheim, Berlin, Potsdam , Oxford) in digital monitoring vitality and eco system services of green area in cities.

"Eco System Services of Urban Green Areas: Meaning-Maintaining-Monitoring related to Climate Change"
(15:20 - 16:05)

Public green areas should meet the defined requirements for special forms of use and are also offering valuable eco system services. Due to climate change issues, turf grass for recreation and sports as well as trees in city parks have to cope with different abiotic and biotic stress factors. Plant health and vitality is crucial for plants functionality. Implementation of sustainable concepts, stress response, improvement of stress tolerance by preventive measures and precise digital monitoring are main topics of this presentation.

Beo Raven BENSURTO
Park Operations Superintendent at National Parks Development Committee

Forester Beo Raven Bensurto is a licensed forester who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He also holds a Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning, where he was awarded the Dean’s Medallion for Academic Excellence. He is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning at University of the Philippines Diliman. He began working with the National Parks Development Committee (NPDC) in 2020 as a Park Maintenance Supervisor. Currently, he serves as the Chief of the Facilities Management Section where he oversees the general supervision of the facilities management of the two urban parks in the Philippines, the Rizal Park Luneta and Paco Park. Among Forester Bensurto’s notable accomplishments and contributions are the development of an assessment and monitoring criteria and tool for the monitoring of the service level agreements of the service providers of NPDC´s Park Operations Division, partnerships with different universities in the Philippines for tree nurturing activities for the National Service Training Program (NSTP), represented NPDC in different congressional sessions related to Park Management, as well as being designated as a resource person for different capacity building trainings and seminars of local government units (LGU), lectures and events of other government agencies and the private sector in the Philippines. With nearly seven years of experience with the Philippine Government, he specializes in environmental planning and compliance, as well as landscape and park management.

“PARKnerships: Where Communities and Parks Thrive Together”
(16:05 - 16:30)

This session highlights the creation of the Children’s Play Garden at Rizal Park Luneta in the Philippines—a community-led initiative that transformed a lost playground into a nature-based, inclusive space. Fully funded by private partners, the project showcases how public–private collaboration can address environmental education, climate resilience, and child development through play. Learn how green spaces can be reimagined as tools for learning, inclusion, and sustainability.

Meleknur ÇALIŞKAN
Landscape Architect

Meleknur Çalışkan started the Landscape Architecture program at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa University in 2020 and graduated with honors in 2024. She began her masters degree studies in Landscape Architecture at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa in 2024 and is currently continuing her education.

“Public Park Spaces”
(16:30 - 16:55)

This session highlights the assessment of neighborhood parks in terms of accessiblity, inclusivity and user requests. It will open the discussion on how to regenerate public open spaces from the perspective of equity.

Nihan Sevinç MUŞDAL
Manager of the Native Plants Collection at Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden

She graduated from Istanbul University with degrees in Forest Engineering (2009) and Landscape Architecture (2011). In 2019, she completed her master’s thesis on the planning and design of botanical gardens. Since 2009, she has been working at Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanik Bahçesi, where she manages the native plants collection and, since 2010, coordinates and teaches the Practical Horticulture Course in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Since 2014, she has pursued training with Fergus Garrett at Great Dixter House and Gardens on “Succession Planting.” Currently, her PhD research focuses on enhancing the use of native plants in landscape design.

"Our Plant Richness, Istanbul, and What’s Disappearing: A Journey in Search of Nature"
(16:55 - 18:25)

The unique plant diversity of Türkiye and Istanbul, as well as the historical and ecological importance of this richness, will be addressed. Participants will learn how we can preserve nature’s memory and ensure the sustainable use of these plants in urban life. Following the presentation, a workshop will take place where audience will embark on an interactive exploration through local plants; they will engage in plant identification, the concept of ecological memory, and design their own 'mini ecosystem' using small-scale, nature-friendly practices.

Mark BOWATER
Spaces and Places Consultant at Sport New Zealand and Deputy Chair of World Urban Parks

Mark Bowater is an experienced and respected leader in the parks, sport and recreation industry, with a significant local government background and a proven track record of achievements and projects that make a difference for our communities. Passionate about the sustainable development of community recreational infrastructure, stewardship of our natural environments, and the important contribution this makes to urban livability. As a leader I enjoy helping and encouraging others to grow and develop their professional skills. As a strong industry supporter and contributor, he has been a member of Recreation Aotearoa (formerly the New Zealand Recreation Association) for over 20 years. And has been a Board Director and ex-Chair for Recreation Aotearoa for 9 years, an Accredited Recreation Professional (ARPro), an Infrastructure Sustainability Accredited Professional (ISAP), a Certified Parks Professional - International (CPP-I), and a member of the World Urban Parks Healthy Parks Healthy Cities Committee, co-chair of the Asia-Pacific Region Committee, and World Urban Parks Deputy Chair. In 2018 he received the NZRA Fellow Award, which recognizes outstanding and sustained contribution to the purpose, aims and work of the NZ Recreation Association. In 2019 he was the recipient of the Recreation Aotearoa Ian Galloway Memorial Cup, which recognises excellence and outstanding personal contribution to the wider parks industry.

"Sustainable Open Space for Liveable Cities – The Call for Better"
(10:40 - 11:25)

This insightful presentation will consider how we plan for the public open space needs for growing cities, so that there is equitable access to quality urban parks. This includes an assessment of how we should consider access, quality, provision and diversity of public open spaces, and how we can design sustainable parks and recreation facilities. Mark will draw on his experiences in Auckland parks management, Melbourne open space planning, and involvement with World Urban Parks, to profile innovative projects, contemporary planning, and ideas that embrace the future for liveable cities.

Mustafa ERGEN
Associate Professor at Sakarya University of Applied Sciences

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Ergen completed his undergraduate education in Landscape Architecture at Abant İzzet Baysal University. He pursued his post graduate studies in the City and Regional Planning program at Gebze Technical University and in the Landscape Architecture department at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences in Germany. Between 2007 and 2008, he obtained a specialization diploma in Environmental Management from the Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute in Greece. He completed his Ph.D. at TU Dortmund University in Germany in the Urban Design department. Additionally, he holds associate degrees in Geographic Information Systems and Agriculture from Anadolu University. Ergen began his career in academia as a faculty member at Yüzüncü Yıl, Amasya, and Siirt Universities, and is currently serving as an associate professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture at Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture. He has numerous national and international publications and book chapters on topics such as urban transformation, green space planning, geographic information systems and sustainable landscape management. He is proficient in English to an advanced level and in German to an intermediate level.

"New Approaches at the Intersection of Spatial Justice and Universal Design"
(11:25 - 11:50)

Cities of centuries are supposed to be areas for not only economic growth but also social equality, cultural diversity, and physical accessibility. The concept of "Equity and Inclusive Cities" points out to a brand new paradigm shift for disciplines of landscape architecture and urban planning. This presentation highlights the importance of designing accessible and inclusive urban places for disadvantagous groups from a socio-economic perspective such as immigrants, elders and especially people with disabilities.

Prof. Dr. Yasin Çağatay SEÇKİN
Department of Landscape Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture, Istanbul Technical University

Yasin Çağatay Seçkin graduated from the Faculty of Architecture at Mimar Sinan University (Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts) in 1998 with the title of Architect. He received his master's and doctoral degrees in Architectural History and Urban Design from Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ). Following his doctoral studies, between 2005 and 2007, he conducted post-doctoral research on Sustainable Landscape Construction at the Louisiana State University (LSU) College of Art & Design, Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture. His academic research focuses on urban design, landscape design, landscape construction, and universal design. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in various departments and supervises scientific research projects with master’s and doctoral students in the fields of urban design and landscape architecture. In addition, he continues to engage in project production activities in architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design. Seçkin has participated in numerous design competitions as both a jury member and competitor, earning many awards individually and as part of a team. Most recently, he was honored with the Contribution to the Profession Award at the 2024 National Landscape Architecture Awards organized by the Turkish Chamber of Landscape Architects (TMMOB), in recognition of his contributions to the field of landscape architecture. As an extension of his professional work and his pursuit of urban and environmental justice through ecological processes, Seçkin prepares and hosts the radio program Doğa Dedektifi (Nature Detective) on 95.0 Açık Radyo. He currently serves as a faculty member in the Department of Landscape Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture, Istanbul Technical University.

"Cities as Playgrounds: Having the freedom to play in every corner of the city."
(13:15 - 14:00)

Cities, by their very design, offer opportunities for structured and unstructured games in built playgrounds and sports fields, while also hosting more spontaneous games and playful activities by utilizing the urban infrastructure and shaping it according to the playful logic of city dwellers. These games are quite diverse. This diversity, which we can call urban play, is a form of existence. It is a framework for reimagining the world. It reveals many potentials and possibilities. The common feature of all these games and activities is that they take place outside the cultural boundaries set aside for playing in the new urban order and creatively invade both physical and digital spaces. This invasion has recently given rise to the concept of the “playable city” as a counterpoint to the concept of the “smart city.” Within the scope of the concept of a playable city, in recent years in Istanbul, as stated in Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, many studies, productions, and collaborations have been carried out to make the city a place where everyone living in the city, especially children, can fully enjoy their right to play. Work has been carried out with Istanbul residents to improve play opportunities in public spaces for children and young people in the city and to contribute to community life. This presentation shares our experiences on how the city's streets can be made safer, healthier, more fun, more creative, more social, and more “playable” through play, which is a very important part of life and a universal common ground for all living beings. We value sharing and discussing these experiences because a city that is more suitable for children to live in is a better city for everyone. Hope you enjoy the presentation...

Adriana LARIN
Director at Historic Center Authority, San Salvador

"Public spaces as engines of urban regeneration: The case of San Salvador’s Historic Center"
(14:00 - 14:25)

This session will explore how public spaces can drive urban regeneration, using the transformation of San Salvador’s Historic Center as a case study. Adriana Larín, Director of the Historic Center Authority, will share key strategies, challenges, and lessons learned from this ambitious initiative to revitalize public life, heritage, and economic activity through inclusive urban design.

Damla PEHLEVAN POLAT
Landscape Architect

Damla Pehlevan Polat, graduated from Istanbul Technical University scoring highly for her Landscape Architecture thesis. She completed her postgraduate studies in Sonic Arts at the Music Advanced Research Center (MIAM) and in the 'Theory and Practice of Landscape Projects' at ENSP Versailles & Paris-Saclay University in France. She worked as an intern landscape architect at the Architecture, Urbanism, and Environmental Council of the Paris Municipality, CAUE91. Her project "Land of Sound" (2015), which combines Landscape Architecture and sound design, was presented at the North Texas University ICMC conference. In 2021, Pehlevan completed her thesis on the use of new media in landscape architecture. Currently, she works on landscape design projects while continuing her musical production as a pianist, songwriter, and composer. In 2024, she co-founded The Spatial J/U/S/T - Fair Spaces team, where she develops participatory projects focused on landscape, music, and botany.

"Land of Sound - A Distinctive Duo"
(14:25 - 14:50)

Land of Sound is a project that combines landscape architecture and sound art together for a journey of exploration and experience. The project not only theoretically explores a common language and production model between these fields, but also presents a practical product. The landscape is transformed into a virtual realistic (VR) sound world through the sound layer created by the artist and the spatialization of sound. In this presentation, Damla Pehlevan Polat will share her research on soundscape, sound ecology and the use of art-based research in landscape architecture through new media, along with examples of her own project.

Professor Xiangrong WANG
School of Landscape Architecture at Beijing Forestry University

Prof. Wang Xiangrong is a renowned Chinese landscape architect, educator, and scholar. He is the former Dean and currently a Leading Professor at the School of Landscape Architecture at Beijing Forestry University, and the Principal Designer at Atelier DYJG. With over four decades of experience, he has led nearly 200 landscape projects across more than 80 cities and received over 90 international and national awards, including honors from IFLA, ASLA, and the British Landscape Institute. Prof. Wang is also the Editor-in-Chief of Chinese Landscape Architecture and a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and the UK Landscape Institute. His work and academic leadership have significantly shaped the field of landscape architecture in China and beyond.

"From Nature in the City to a Nature City"
(15:20 - 16:05)

The presentation explores the relationship between Chinese cities and nature during the agricultural era, as well as the ecological problems that arose from rapid urbanization. It also offers pathways to reestablish the harmonious relationship between humans and nature that ought to exist in the city—specifically, by advocating for the development of a Nature City as a central guiding vision.

Dr. Çiğdem HACIOĞLU
Parks and Gardens Department Head of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality

In 1996, Dr. Çiğdem Hacıoğlu graduated from the Garden Plants Department in the Agriculture Faculty of Mediterranean University. A Master’s degree was followed by completion of her PhD at the same faculty during which time her expertise in this subject became widely recognised in academic circles. Dr. Hacıoğlu, who began her professional career at the Parks and Gardens Department of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality, served as Branch Manager at the same unit between 2010 – 2014. From 2015 – 2019, she took on the role of Deputy Manager at Parks and Gardens Directorate of Konyaalti Municipality. Since 2019, she has served as the Head of Parks and Gardens Department of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality.

“Urban Biodiversity, Endemic Species, and Nature-Based Approaches: Atatürk Cultural Park”
(16:05 - 16:30)

Atatürk Cultural Park, one of the largest urban parks in Antalya, covers an area of 308,000 sqm and makes significant contributions to the urban ecosystem. With its natural landscape, cliff formations, scrubland areas, and artificial ponds, it offers a rich living space. The park is home to more than 40 animal species and over 150 natural plant species including four local endemic and one rare plant species. The Atatürk Cultural Park project has translated Antalya’s sustainability vision into an institutional framework, gaining international recognition through membership in the World City Parks Association and making significant strides toward global standards with its Green Flag Certification process. The long-term goal of the project is to expand this model to the green spaces in all 19 districts of Antalya, preserving and promoting the city’s rich flora and fauna diversity. In this regard, the project stands out not only for its ecological impact but also for its social, economic, and cultural contributions, enhancing Antalya's brand value. It serves as a unique and innovative example that could inspire other municipalities.

Dr. Akgün İLHAN
Bogazici University

Akgün İlhan obtained her Ph.D. (2010), in Environmental Sciences, with a particular focus on water policy and management, at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona with a scholarship from the Catalan Government. After completing her studies and returning to Turkey, she worked for some Civil Society Organisations based in Istanbul between 2012 and 2018. She was a Mercator Stiftung-Istanbul Policy Center post-doctoral researcher in 2019-2020 at the Istanbul Policy Center Sabanci University, focusing on urban water management and climate change. Since 2017, she has been a part-time lecturer at Bogazici University. She was a post-doctoral researcher at the British Institute at Ankara (BIAA) in the British Academy-funded project Water in Istanbul: Rising to the Challenge from 2021 to 2024. Akgün İlhan wrote books, book chapters, newspapers, and journal articles about Turkey's water crisis and climate change. She is the producer and host of the programs Su Hakkı, which aired on Açık Radyo between 2012 and 2018, and Sudan Gelen, which aired between 2018 and 2024.

"Water Management Compatible with Climate"
(16:30 - 16:55)

Climate change makes water management more complicated and creates negative effects on water resources and infrastructure. In this session, the concept of water management which is compatible with climate conditions will be addressed. The sustainable usage of water resources, harvesting rain water, recycling of waste water and strategies about increasing the durability of grey and green water infrastructures will be discussed. Additionally, examples of climate adaptation measures that can be implemented at the policy and planning level in urban areas will be presented.