Reviving Marash : urban greening and urban agriculture as a tool for social, economic, and environmental revitalization of Marash neighborhood, Bourj Hammoud

Abstract

Bourj Hammoud, a town North-East of Beirut, is home to the Armenian community in Lebanon. Most of the residents come from a rural background, having the basic skills and appreciation towards growing their own food – as it is of great cultural value. Even though only 80 years back it was an agricultural area, it has rapidly grown into a diverse, dynamic and lively town. However, this growth has brought along so many economic, social and environmental problems. The aim is to revitalize Marash neighborhood through the use of urban agriculture and greening, This will take place as linear and punctual interventions that together will have a ripple effect, encouraging the rest of the residents to start growing their own food and eventually spread this pattern along all of Marash.