Map4Rec.CH

Context

Refugee children often face multiple barriers to accessing urban green spaces, from limited knowledge of their surroundings to unfamiliarity with local norms. Yet time spent outdoors is known to support mental health, foster well-being, and strengthen social ties. This project addresses a critical gap at the intersection of environmental justice, youth inclusion, and Citizen Science by focusing on how refugee children engage with nature in the city.

About the project

The project empowers refugee children aged 10 to 14 to explore urban green spaces through hands-on, nature-based Citizen Science. By involving children directly in mapping and documenting their environments, the project aims to strengthen their connection to nature, support well-being, and to encourage participation in public life. At the same time, it provides researchers, educators, and municipalities with new insights into how displaced youth perceive and use green spaces. This helps to promote more inclusive, child-friendly urban planning and educational practices.

Project phases

1. Preparation: We will build partnerships with local organizations, recruit children and their families. This phase also includes preparing the ethical approval, training volunteers, and adjusting tools for language and local contexts.
2. Co-creation and Mapping: Children will take part in creative co-design sessions to define what matters to them in green spaces and how to collect relevant data. They will then participate in guided fieldwork, using digital map-ping apps, biodiversity tools, and environmental sensors to explore and document urban nature.
3. Assessment and Sharing: We will reflect the results together with the children and co-prepare a closing event for the partici-pants, parents, and other interested parties.