Urban Gardens of the Future: Wadi Hawa
Imagining the urban gardening community of the future in Az Zubayr from an equitable perspective
I. Mustafa (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
R. Cavallo – Mentor (TU Delft - Theory, Territories & Transitions)
John Hanna – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
C.L. Martin – Mentor (TU Delft - Environmental & Climate Design)
K.B.J. Van den Berghe – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Urban Development Management)
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Abstract
Iraq is undergoing a transformative period following decades of conflict, with major infrastructure projects intended to drive economic revival. Central among these is the Grand Faw Port in the southern Governorate of Basra. This port is intended to become the largest and most advanced port in the world, along with a connecting Development Road linking Europe and Asia. This research investigates the socio-environmental consequences of such development, focusing on the interconnected cities of Al-Faw (site of the new port), Umm Qasr (home to the older port), and Az Zubayr (a rapidly growing urban centre). Using a mixed anticipatory scenario approach – involving scenario planning, backcasting, and visioning – the study examines how the rise of this port project and other major infrastructural projects could displace local communities and marginalize older infrastructure. This study particularly pays attention to the local populations dependent on agriculture. The understanding of both the infrastructural violence and the environmental degradation of the area is crucial to this research. Drawing on ecofeminist theory, commoning and design-based methods, the research envisions an inclusive urban gardening community in Az Zubayr that addresses the needs of displaced and local communities while supporting ecological resilience.