"Cultivating the Legacy of The 'Ovava - Symbol of Resillence"
Eua, Tonga
As students of the University of Melbourne, we recognize the Traditional Custodians of the unceded lands where we write, learn, and live—the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples of the Kulin Nation. We extend our respect to their Elders, past, present, and emerging.
In light of our research in Tonga, we also honor the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we have conducted our studies and traveled, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging.
01 02
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
1.2 WHAT'S PLACEMAKING?
STORY OF PLACE
2.1 SITE CONTEXT
2.2 LOCAL STORIES AND VALUES
2.3 SKATEHOLDER ANALYSIS
2.4 SWOT ANALYSIS OF PLACE
2.5 IMPACT ON ACTIVATION
PLACE STRATEGY
3.1 WHAT IS PLACE STRATEGY
3.2 VISION AND PRINCIPLES
3.3 STRATEGIC GOALS
THE PLACE ACTIVATION PLAN
4.1 HOW CAN WE ACHIEVE THE GOALS
4.2 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
4.3 DETAIL ACTIVATION PLAN
4.4 MORNITORING AND ENVALUATION
THE TACTICAL PLACEMAKING PROJECT
5.1 CONCEPT
5.2 PLACE EVALUATION
5.3 OUTCOMES
5.4 COST AND IMPLEMENTATION
5.5 TIMELINE
for Ohonua, Eua, Tonga 06 MILESTONE TOWARD THE VISION
PLACEMAKING
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The Kingdom of Tonga is comprised of 172 islands, home to 100,179 residents (Tonga Statistics Department, 2021). These islands, formed by volcanic activity due to the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Australian Plate, are prone to significant geological risks including megathrust earthquakes, explosive volcanic eruptions, landslides, and tsunamis (Thomas et al., 2023). In 2022, a violent eruption occurred at an underwater volcano in the Southwestern Pacific Ocean, leading to catastrophic effects across the Tonga archipelago. The eruption produced a massive amount of volcanic ash and a global airborne shockwave, and it also triggered a tsunami that spread across the Pacific (Gusman et al., 2022).
This tsunami created a 7km high Tonga Trench on the ocean floor, causing widespread destruction across several island nations, including the Eua Island in Tonga. Located 100 km
from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano, Eua Island experienced considerable damage along its western coastline, particularly in Ohonua Town (Faisal et al., 2023). The tsunami inflicted major structural and roadway damages as it hit the island. Initial assessments showed that out of 1,890 buildings, 143 displayed visible damage and ash deposits, which constitutes 8% of all buildings on Eua Island (OCHA, 2022). Notably, Ohonua Town was the hardest hit, with 139 of these buildings damaged, and the area also faced significant accessibility issues due to approximately six road obstructions (OCHA, 2022).
The Ohunua community on ‘Eua Island has faced immense challenges following a devastating tsunami, including significant infrastructural damage, economic losses, displacement, and mental trauma (Faisal et al., 2023). These adversities underscore the need for a dynamic approach to urban renewal and community healing.
1.2 WHAT IS PLACEMAKING?
Placemaking presents a potent tool in this context—a method to shape spaces that foster meaningful experiences and enhance the community’s quality of life (Hes et al., 2020). It is a participatory process that empowers individuals to positively transform public spaces, fostering a deep sense of place attachment, belonging, and stewardship, these elements are vital for nurturing engaged citizenship and improving health and well-being (Bush et al., 2020).
While Placemaking traditionally aims to forge emotional connections between people and places, Integrating ecological thinking in placemaking which recognises place as a complex social-ecological system which includes space, people and nature helps to expand the approach beyond human-centred designs by fostering environmental resilience, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting ecosystems. This shift not only mitigates the impact of urban development on nature but also creates healthier, more sustainable environments for future generations.
This report outlines a place strategy to explore how nature-based solutions integrating with Indigenous knowledges, can assist climate change adaptation to achieve individual and community wellbeing outcomes in Tonga. Through extensive engagement with the Ohunua community in Eua and comprehensive research, we have gathered valuable insights on placebased value issues and opportunities from residents’ stories and site analysis. These form the foundation of our ‘Story of Place,’ which guides our place strategy.The strategy utilizes placemaking as a catalyst for transformative change, tackling key challenges and enhancing community well-being in both the short and long term.
A highlight to this strategy is the pilot testing of a tactical placemaking project designed to spur sustainable growth, demonstrating how it support our broader goals and vision of building a resilient community.
2. STORY OF PLACE
2.1 SITE CONTEXT
Natural Environment and Cultural Identity
The natural environment, encompassing the land, ocean, and broader ecosystem, constitutes a core aspect of the cultural identity and pride of the Tongan. This connection is profoundly rooted in the traditions and heritage of Oceania, where the relationship with the land and ocean forms the foundation of environmental understanding and stewardship, especially among Indigenous communities.
During the Preparatory Meeting on the Oceans Conference with the United Nations, the Tongan government representative emphasized the significance of the ocean to the nation, stating,
“A healthy and resilient Ocean, ensuring rich biodiversity, is crucial to my people and mycountry. Tongans are “people from the sea” and Ocean is our heritage” (United Nation, 2017).
This declaration highlights the deep-seated identity of Tongans with their natural environment.
In Eua, particularly in the Ohonua community situated along the foreshore, residents exhibit profound physical and emotional connections to
their natural surroundings, especially the ocean. The landscape is also dominated by vegetation like the coconut trees, a staple of tropical regions, with seaweed and moss thriving near the coastline, underscoring the area’s ecological diversity. Moreover, some roads in Ohonua boast strong frontages leading directly to the sea, offering spectacular views that enhance the locality’s natural allure. This geographic and ecological richness not only defines the community’s lifestyle and traditions but also underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations.
This bond is under threat, however, due to the adverse impacts of human activities and the compounded effects of climate change, which have escalated following the devastating Tsunami in 2022. The local ecosystem, home to marine life such as humpback whales and spinner dolphins close to the beach, and native birds like the red-breasted musk parrot on the island’s outskirts, faces significant risks (Faisal et al., 2023).
Topography and Environment
The topography of the site offers unique advantages and challenges. The land elevation increases as it moves inland from the ocean, which is situated to the west of the Ohonua community. This gradient provides the area with breathtaking scenic beach views and enhances opportunities for beachside activities and natural attractions. However, the area closest to the shore with lower elevation ranges from 13-26 m above sea level is prone to flooding from the rain, being heavily damaged after the Tsunami (Faisal et al., 2023). This led to significant underutilization of land along the beach road, transforming it into a stretch of unused and destroyed territory.
Despite significant environmental devastation, with buildings and infrastructure severely damaged by the tsunami, a remarkable observation was made during the site visit: numerous native plants not only survived but thrived vibrantly within the area, showcasing the remarkable resilience of Eua’s natural environment. These resilient native species are invaluable assets in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change, for instance, planting crops and trees can be adopted to reduce erosion and as windbreakers in climate change adaption (Beyerl et al., 2018).
Land Elevation
Survived Native Plant
Distroyed Bank
Community Space and Social Interactions
The religious community in Ohonua plays a vital role in shaping cultural identity and community spirit, with churches serving as the principal community spaces. Churches on Ohonua, ‘Eua Island, are prominent, reflecting Tongans’ deep connection with their religion, which influences every aspect of their lives (Faisal et al., 2023). These churches are not only places of worship but also essential hubs for community gatherings and social support. However, aside from churches, communal spaces are scarce. Social activities are predominantly centred around churches, leading to segregation among different religious groups, which particularly affects the social interactions among children.
Despite the availability of vacant public open spaces and green pockets along main roads and within residential zones, these areas are underutilized and suffer from poor maintenance, reducing their attractiveness for community activities, especially since the tsunami destroyed much of the natural beauty. Community members also
expressed their lack of place attachment for those abandoned open spaces despite these areas being publicly owned community spaces. Cutting down of trees for development was also observed, revealing a lack of public knowledge on the negative environmental impact of deforestation. The lack of pedestrian paths and the prevalence of vehicle transport further limit opportunities for spontaneous social encounters and outdoor activities. This could potentially impact public health and well-being negatively.
Particularly, open spaces near the coastal areas in front of Block 5 and 6, unprotected foreshore, which are restricted from residential development due to flooding risks and tsunami damages present a significant opportunity.
These areas could be converted into vibrant community spaces for socializing, significantly enhancing the communal dynamics and offering a place for diverse groups to interact more freely and strengthen community bonds.
Examples of Open Space restructed from residential use
Waste Management
The current waste management in ‘Eua seems to be insufficient, lacking a structured community garbage collection system, which poses severe public health and environmental risks. The primary dump site, situated in a former quarry near the villages of Angaha and Pangai, is inadequately managed. Despite the Ministry of Health funding a manager with an annual operating budget, the dump frequently remains inaccessible during official hours due to the unavailability of the manager and the gate key (Eua Development Committee, 2014). This mismanagement forces residents to resort to wild dumping, often just outside the official dumpsite, on farmland, and along beaches. During the site visit, it was observed that garbage bins were not commonly found with no recycle bins. Waste materials such as plastic bottles, cans, and food packaging were scattered across roads, green spaces, and beaches. Wasted potentially derived from construction, including plastic pipes, wooden panels, and timber logs, were also found abandoned in various areas, indiscriminately mixed with other types of waste. Those informal dump sites, often overrun with scavenging ani-
mals like dogs, pigs, and rats, might risk becoming a vector for disease as garbage, including diapers and human feces, is dragged into nearby residential areas, creating a potential “typhoid time bomb” (Eua Development Committee, 2014).
The consequences of this ineffective system are dire. Beyond the immediate health hazards, the environmental impact is profound. The uncontrolled waste not only will disrupt the natural beauty of ‘Eua, but it also damages the ecosystem, affecting local wildlife and marine life due to the encroachment of waste on their habitats. There is a critical need for an overhaul of the waste management system in ‘Eua. Other than relying on topdown management from the Ministry of Health, utilizing collective effort and community-led initiative would be a more effective and comprehensive solution. Moreover, there is a significant opportunity to introduce recycling initiatives, especially for cans and bottles, which account for a huge portion of the waste but could easily be collected and processed.
Heath and Wellbeing
Same as other Pacific Islands, Tonga including Eua faces on-going health challenges with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory conditions, and some cancers (Tukuitonga et al., 2024). Among NCDs, Tonga has one of the highest prevalences of obesity, over three-quarters of the adult population in Tonga are obese, and obesity rates are rising among children and adolescents (Reeve et al., 2022). Key factors leading to NCDs, including Sedentary behaviour and poor food consumption underscore the need for changes in public attitudes and lifestyle. Yet, mental health issues caused by climate change have raised increasing concern, especially after the
Tsunami. The physical change caused by climate change like erosion and flooding has led to a negative impact on emotional well-being including worry, stress and anxiety (Havea et al., 2017). While those emotions intensified after the Tsunami, individuals displaced from their original homes experienced significant physiological and mental health challenges, where social networks and community connections were disrupted (Frumkin et al., 2008).
During the community engagement, profound trauma and negative emotions were evident among the residents of Eua, highlighting significant public health and well-being challenges in the area.
“ We lost everything from the Tsunami, we are still scared when we hear the wave”
2.2 LOCAL STORIES AND VALUES
Multiple engagement activities have been conducted within the Ohonua community: meetings with community groups and leaders, daily encounters, site visits, and public presentations on place strategies. The following provides a synthesis of the core community’s shared values derived from their stories and feedback that emerged from the engagement process for this project.
Important of Nature
The natural environment, particularly the native plants and vegetation, holds significant value for the community in Eua, deeply intertwining with the daily lives and cultural practices of the residents. During our community engagement, the locals frequently mentioned their appreciation for the area’s natural attributes. Women in the community rely on natural materials for creating handicrafts, which not only supports their businesses by selling these items but also serves their daily needs, such as using coconut leaves to make baskets and mats (Ngatu)—a vital cultural practice.
Children’s activities are also deeply connected to the natural environment. They enjoy playing around trees and the ocean, utilizing tree roots for swinging and climbing, and gathering under tree canopies with friends or swimming along the foreshore. These interactions with nature are not just recreational; they include practical tasks like collecting coconut and taro leaves for family meals.
The community’s bond with the ocean is particularly strong, with the foreshore area being a central gathering place where significant memories are formed. The ocean is not only a source of peace but also a point of pride for being a premier location for whale-watching globally, enhancing the community’s sense of place and identity.
Furthermore, native plants are integral to local legends and history, considered crucial cultural heritage. Various types of native vegetation traditionally serve functional purposes, such as the native flora of Samoa used as natural fencing and the Kaloni Kakala (Rangoon Creeper), valued for its fragrance and used as a traditional waist ornament in Tongan culture.
The ‘Ovava tree, renowned in local legend as the once home to the god Tangaloa and believed to
possess healing powers, is a site for spiritual guidance and traditional ceremonies. This tree symbolizes resilience, thriving in diverse environments and surviving the tsunami, reinforcing its cultural significance.
During a conversation with a local woman named Sisifa, her resilience was evident despite her house being significantly damaged and the landscaping in front of her home destroyed by the Tsunami. Sisifa shared a local legend that highlighted the cultural significance of the ‘Ovava trees in Eua. According to the legend, the ‘Ovava trees were the original gathering places for the community, offering shade under which adults would pass down stories to their children. The ‘Ovava trees’ survival through the tsunami have proven their status as symbols of resilience within the community. Sisifa expressed profound admiration for the strength of the ‘Ovava trees, which reinforced her belief in the resilience of nature. This belief inspired her to confront challenges head-on rather than flee them. Motivated by this strong sense of resilience and her deep connection to her home, Sisifa chose to remain in her house despite the damage, further underscoring the significance of native plants in the cultural fabric and heritage of the Eua community.
Children are The Future Leader
The young generation constitutes a significant portion of the community’s population, reflecting the common Tongan cultural norm of large families. Throughout our community engagement activities, children emerged as a notably engaged group, displaying considerable curiosity and creativity. Their interactions and drawings revealed an innate capacity for exploring new ideas and devising innovative solutions to the challenges facing their community. This underscores the importance of empowerment and education in nurturing these young minds to become the future leaders who can drive resilience and transformation in their community.
During discussions with adults, especially within the women’s group, there was a palpable concern for the youth’s future. Parents and grandparents voiced their worries, with one elderly
woman expressing a poignant sentiment,
“We won’t be here soon but the kids are the future generation of Eua. After the Tsunami, we collapsed and are not standing yet; we are very worried about our kids.”
This concern was echoed by others who expressed a desire to send their children overseas, hoping for better opportunities that could secure a brighter future for them. These narratives highlight the community’s high regard for its youth and recognize the critical role they play as stakeholders in crafting a resilient future for Eua. It is clear that investing in the young generation’s development is not just a necessity but a strategic imperative to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the community.
Community Bonding
Locals Value the bonds they share with neighbors, friends and community group members. Trusting and friendly relationships were observed during community engagements. Yet, maintaining and deepening these connections has proven challenging, especially after the tsunami disrupted social structures and led to widespread dislocation, creating feelings of disconnection as articulated by an elder woman, Sisifa
“Our community is broken and we are struggling to rebuild.”
The segregation driven by different church affiliations has also curtailed community interactions, particularly impacting the youth.
In respond. the establishment of the children’s planting group, Otumatafena, has successfully brought together children from various blocks, nurturing friendships and fostering a sense of belonging. Such interactions are vital for their emotional and social development. However, the
scarcity of well-designed and maintained public spaces continues to limit broader social interactions among the youth, who often find themselves confined to home environments, interacting primarily with family members.
This issue was echoed by several teenagers who, having recently moved from Tongatapu to Eua, voiced difficulties in forming new friendships due to the lack of communal spaces conducive to socializing. Their yearning to return to Tongatapu underscores their struggle with integration into their new setting. They expressed a specific demand for playgrounds, which could act as crucial hubs for fostering youth interactions and building community connections.
As many adults particular parents also expressed, creating more communal gathering spaces, especially for children and youth, can significantly enhancing social interactions, strengthen the community’s cohesion and improving the well-being of residents.
2.3 SKATEHOLDER ANALYSIS
High Stake – Low resources
Community members
(particularly Children/Youth, Elderly and Women)
High Stake – High resources
Tourists
Past Residents and Family off The Island
King and the Royal Family Agents of the local governments
Natural environment
Low Stake – Low resources
Foreign/Government aids
Foreign/local investors
Non-Government organizations aids
Low Stake – High resources
During the community engagement and site analysis, it was evident that community members hold a vital stake as they are the primary users and caretakers of their environment, which they deeply regard as “home”. Despite their strong connections and rich indigenous knowledge, they perceive themselves as a resource-limited group, mainly due to insufficient financial resources and limited decision-making power over the development of their area. Notably, the elderly and women are recognized as more vulnerable due to physical constraints and a social structure that often favors men’s voices. Children, while highly valued, typically possess limited knowledge, skills, and decision-making authority within the community. Many community members reported relying on government or foreign aid for essential services and infrastructure development, such as housing and drainage systems, especially in the aftermath of the Tsunami.
However, these top-down approaches frequently fail to address their actual needs or lead to sustainability issues, such as inadequate maintenance. Despite these challenges, strong lead-
ership qualities and a spirited sense of community teamwork were observed, which are believed to hold significant potential for further development. These qualities can catalyze the transformation of Eua into a more resilient community.
Focusing on empowering community leadership and supporting community-led initiatives can prove more effective than relying solely on infrastructure development. Enhancing the community’s capacity and providing opportunities for residents to design, control, and maintain their spaces based on their ideas could lead to more sustainable solutions to the challenges they currently face. Additionally, the natural environment, recognized during community engagement as a high-stakes asset with invaluable cultural values, is resource-rich and has considerable potential to address climate change challenges and enhance public well-being. By leveraging these natural resources and fostering a stronger community governance structure, Eua can build a more resilient and sustainable community.
2.4 SWOT ANALYSIS OF PLACE
Cultural Heritage
The deep-rooted connection and knowledge of the community to their environment, particularly the ocean and native plants provide a cultural foundation
Resilient Natural Environment
Despite environmental challenges, the survival and vitality of natural elements post-tsunami demonstrate the ecological resilience of the area.
Community Spirit
How the community valued social bonding play a crucial role in fostering resilient community
SVulnerability to Natural Disaters
Low-lying coastal areas are prone to flooding, exacerbated by the effects of climate change and past tsunami damage.
Social Segregation
The community is segregated due to post-disaster displacement
Inefficient Waste Management
The current waste management system is critically deficient, contributing to environmental degradation and public health risks.
ODevelopment of Public Spaces
Vacant lands and green pockets offer opportunities to create vibrant community spaces that enhance social interactions and community bonding.
Sustainable Practices
Introducing sustainable environmental and waste management practices could greatly improve the quality of life and ecological health.
Youth Engagement and Development
Fostering educational and empowerment initiatives for the youth to nurture future community leaders and innovators.
TEnvironmental Degradation
Ongoing challenges related to climate change, such as ocean degradation and extreme weather events, threaten the natural and living environment.
Cultural Preservation
Potential loss of cultural heritage and community cohesion if younger generations if traditional legend and stories are not transmitted to the new generation
Publicn Health Risks
Post-disaster trauma can lead to significant mental health concerns and adversely affect the development of young people.
Potential outbreaks of diseases due to poor waste handling and exposure to unsanitary conditions.
2.5 IMPACT ON ACTIVATION
The reasons the area is not as activated or desired can be summarized under four(4) areas
Community Spaces Deficiency
There is a notable shortage of public spaces, particularly playgrounds, which inhibits the community’s ability to socialize and gather, thereby affecting communal bonds.
Community Spaces Deficiency
The lack of comfortable and appealing open natural spaces diminishes the community’s motivation to engage in outdoor activities that could capitalize on the available ecosystem services
This leads to a series of questions for the Activation Plan to respond to:
1. How can we involve community members, particularly children and families, in designing and revitalizing public spaces?
2. What activities or events can we organize to encourage socialization and community gatherings in these spaces?
3. How can we measure the impact of improved public space on community cohesion and social bonds?
4. What strategies can be implemented to educate the community about sustainable practices like recycling and reuse within public space design and maintenance?
5. In what ways can community input shape future plans and adaptations to further enhance public spaces and strengthen communal bonds?
1. What specific areas or neighborhoods within our community are most affected by the lack of accessible playgrounds and public gathering spaces?
2. How can we encourage local residents to participate actively in the activation and upkeep of these public spaces?
3. What are the essential features and amenities that should be prioritized in the design of public spaces to ensure they meet the diverse needs of our community?
4. What metrics can we use to evaluate the social impact of new playgrounds on community cohesion and the strengthening of communal bonds?
Educational and Awareness
Insufficient education and promotion related to environmental stewardship and indigenous culture of natural heritage have led to poor management of the natural environment.
Lack of Place leadership
Current place activation initiatives, often driven by top-down leadership and decision-making, have sometimes struggled to effectively meet the diverse needs of the community and foster local stewardship.
1. How can we increase public awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship and the preservation of natural heritage, particularly indigenous knowledge and practices?
2. In what ways can we support indigenous-led initiatives that promote sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems?
3. What strategies can be used to effectively promote environmental stewardship and indigenous cultural heritage through local media, community events, and educational workshops?
4. How will we assess changes in attitudes and behaviors towards sustainable practices and appreciation of indigenous cultural heritage over time?
1. How can we enhance community involvement in the planning and decision-making processes of place activation initiatives?
2. In what ways can we empower local residents to take ownership and stewardship of activated spaces?
3. How can we shift towards a more collaborative approach to decision-making that includes input from community members, stakeholders, and local experts?
4. What metrics and feedback mechanisms can be implemented to assess the effectiveness of place activation initiatives in meeting community needs and fostering stewardship?
5. What steps can be taken to foster a culture of learning and adaptation within our organization or initiative to better respond to community feedback and evolving needs?
3. PLACE STRATEGY
3.1 What’s Place Strategy?
This Place strategy provides the strategic framework for the future activation of Eua. It provides a guide for the government agency and community to effectively work together to achieve the shared vision and goals of the activation Plan.
The following describes the core components of the place strategy.
Vision and Principles: What goals do we all want to reach
Strategic Goals: How do we plan to achieve these goals?
Activation Plan: What steps will we take, and how will we get the community involved?
Tactical Placemaking Project: A pilot test to see how well can our plan works towards achieving our goals and vision
3.2 Vision and Principle
The ‘Story of Place’ analysis has identified three core place values in Eua that the community collectively perceived as important while pinpointing placebased issues and opportunities. Building upon the place value and core challenges, a shared vision is
formulated to guide the achievement of the shared place outcome. In this strategy, placemaking acts as a catalyst to promote practical, nature-based solutions in bolstering Eua’s resilience.
VISION
Place Value
Importancce of Nature
Children are the Future Leaders
Community Bonding
Place Challenge
Socially and Environmentally vulnerable to Climate Change
Social Segreation
Threat on Public Health and well -being
“Creating a resilient community and sustainable environment in Eua, which adapts and mitigates climate change challenges for the benefit of future generations”
PRINCIPLE
Shared Vision Core Principle
The shared vision of building resilience outlined in this strategy is defined as the community’s ability to tackle place-based challenges and preserve the place’s value.
The core principle of the strategy is to adapt and mitigate climate change while preserving Indigenous culture through activating place leadership Governance.
Place Leadership Governance
3.3 Strategic Goals
To achieve the shared outcome of building resilience, The Place Activation Plan is built on four strategic goals from short to long term :
(1) Enhancing the Community’s stewardship of nature in place
(2) Strengthening community bonds and a sense of belonging
(3) Improve ecological and human health through Biophilia, and (4) Integrating circular waste management practices.
Stewardship on Nature in Place
Community Bonding Sense of Belonging
Ecological Human Health
Circular Waste Management Practice
Resilient EUA
4. PLACE ACTIVATION PLAN
4.1 How can we achieve the Goals?
Short-Medium Term Goals
Activation program Foster Community’s stewardship on nature in place
Co-creation of Public Space with Biophilia design, recycle materials and natural heritage
1. Fostering sense of place and ownership
2. Increase cultural understanding on natural heritage
3. Raise awareness on circular waste management
Enhanace Community bonding and sense of belongings
4. Create opportunity for community to work together through co-creation process
5. Create opportunities for socializing, and public encounter through public space creation
Education and promotion on waste management
1. Build sensibility and practical knowledge on caring for nature
2. Promotion events and activities can foster interactions and shared purpose
Principles
• Climate change resilience
• Cultural preservation
• Place leadership as governance
• Climate change resilience
• Place leadership as governance
Long Term Goals
Improve ecological and human health through Biophilia
6. Increase physical and mental health through enjoying ecosystem services and more outdoor activities
7. Increase plantation and encouragemaintenance on natural environment
3. learning practical knowledge can encourage actions on protecting the nature that enhance ecological health
• Climate change resilience
• Cultural preservation
Integrating circular waste management practice in Eua
8. Act as a platform to practice, test and promote sustainable waste management
4. Build capacity in developing community-led waste management practices or system
• Climate change resilience
Stewardship on Nature
‘Stewardship,’ emphasising ‘actions aimed at achieving sustainability’ (West et al., 2018). It empowers locals to actively manage and protect their environments, fostering a sustainable relationship between people and their surroundings. Stewardship’s core aspects—care, knowledge, and agency in environmental management (Peçanha Enqvist et al., 2018) — extend beyond environmental awareness to active engagement with nature.
Deepen the community’s sense of place and reconnect individuals with nature, can foster a profound sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship. Such stewardship can drive community members towards sustainable actions which is essential when facing ongoing climate change challenges (García-Martín et al., 2018). Integrating values, meanings, and perceptions plays a crucial role in this context, as they propel the community’s environmental decisions and actions (West et al., 2018). Increasing cultural understanding of natural heritage, particularly
native plants and indigenous ecological knowledge can foster a stronger sense of place.. Moreover, equipping residents with more practical skills and knowledge to guide their decision-making and actions towards caring for their environment, can strengthen their stewardship.
By building stewardship, communities can be more resilient and better prepared to handle the ongoing and future challenges of environmental changes and pressures. Engaging community members in the creation of public spaces fosters a sense of place and ownership, enhancing their connection to the environment and motivating them to maintain and improve these spaces. Additionally, educating the community about sustainable practices, such as effective waste management, are important for proactive environmental stewardship. This strategic approach is vital for a sustainable future where communities lead in environmental resilience.
Community Bonding and Sense of Belonging
Community bonding and a sense of belonging are pivotal in cultivating resilient places, as they are essential for maintaining social cohesion and individual well-being (Huang, 2023). A strong sense of belonging leads to significant mental health benefits, such as reducing depression, improving emotions, and enhancing self-esteem (Hystad & Carpiano, 2012). Moreover, enhancing the sense of belonging fosters a “sense of care” and responsibility, encouraging community members to invest in maintaining their environment (Bush et al., 2020). By creating and designing public spaces collaboratively, communities will have opportunities to work together with a shared purpose.
This participatory approach not only meets the specific needs of the community but also nurtures stronger relationships and trust among members. Public spaces are also a key element in serving as hubs for community events and social gatherings. Enhanced social interactions and encounter are essential in building relationships between individuals, in turn, enrichingcommunity bonding and a sense of belonging (Nursey-Bray, 2020). Such interactions are essential for developing a resilient community capable of collectively responding to and recovering from various challenges, thereby fostering a sustained and adaptive environment.
Improve Biophilia and Ecological Health
Improving Biophilia and ecological health are essential in building a resilient environment and supporting human well-being. Biophilia, regarded as the relationship between oneself and the natural environment (Bush et al., 2021) is crucial for social cohesion and community enrichment, operating within an integrated social-ecological system. Humans are inherently linked to this system, reliant on nature for essential ecosystem services, such as providing shade, imporving air quality and mitigating urban heat island effect, that can contribute to their health and well-being.
Intergrating Biophilic elements in designing public spaces can lead to increase in green public spaces, which enhances comunnity physical and mental health through improving ecosystem services. McFarlane et al., (2018) noted the important link between ecosystem services and human health in Oceania, highlighting the growing ‘triple burden of disease’ in small island states. The mental health impacts of climate change, including the effects of natural disasters and environmen-
tal disruptions on community social structures, introduce additional layers of stress and anxiety, a phenomenon increasingly known as ‘solastalgia’. Co-design approach can create public spaces that better meet local needs, increasing their use and encouraging outdoor activities to connect with nature.
Biophilic design also encourages more plantations, particularly resilient native plants which are important cultural heritage. This can improve Ecological Health that benefits the non-human stakeholders, such as plants and animals. Designing spaces that incorporate and expand natural elements leads to the creation of ecological niches; enhanced access to soil, light, and water improves the capacity to restore, safeguard, and even boost the viability of various plant and animal species (Bush et al., 2021), ultimately strengthening environmental resilience.
Circular Waste Management
According to (NUWAO, 2017), waste management is identified as one of the categories of Nature-Based Solutions in the Pacific region, which supports sustainable urbanization and contributes significantly to climate change adaptation and mitigation. The concept of Circular Waste Management emphasizes Reduction, Reuse, and Recover transforms the traditional wastefulness of linear urban systems into sustainable, circular flows that conserve resources, enhance urban metabolism, and reduce environmental impact (Winans et al., 2017). By adopting such waste management strategies, the depletion of natural capital can be mitigated and reduce the spread of hazardous materials, thereby maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity (Langergraber et al., 2020). Traditional governance approaches, often linear,
technocratic, and top-down, may address certain environmental challenges but cannot typically secure broad and long-term sustainability (Kiss et al., 2022). The approach of Education and Promotion can build community capacity and empower local leaders and stakeholders to advocate for and implement sustainable waste practices, which are crucial for the adoption and long-term success of Nature-Based Solutions. In particular, integrating the concept of Sustainability and Circular Waste Management in formal education can nurture the young generation to take up environmental responsibility from a young age, promoting environmental stewardship.
An example of Biophilia Design - The Tribal Chamber echoes the sun path
Tuhoe-Te Uru Taumatua, New Zealand (2014)
4.2 Community Engagement
Citizens are the leader s
Evaluation Community Building and Engagement Knowledge and Resources Advocacy and Representation
Central to our Community Engagement Strategy is the activation of place-leadership along the participatory ladder, focusing on a shift from the traditional governance model to one where citizens can take the lead. The strategy is to enable them to directly influence and shape the future of their environment throught offering the opportunities for community members to take up key leadership roles .
“Local citizens are seen as essential participants in collaborative environmental management because they can provide vital information about the area’s natural and socio-political systems” (Koehler & Koontz, 2008, p. 143).
Delegating leadership roles can empower citizens to leverage their local knowledge and resources, thereby driving the governance process. This empowerment extends across planning and coordinating initiatives, advocating and representing the community’s voice, making critical decisions, monitoring and evaluating progress, and fostering community building and engagement.
Such “open-ended” governance can foster authenticity which creates a place that meets the resident’s needs and desires (Hopkins, 2020, p. 240).
The engagement approach as part of the place activation plans aims to foster a sense of ownership and accountability among local citizens, enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of local initiatives. Decision Making Planning Coordination
While delegating key leadership roles to community members in the place activation, government agencies play a crucial role in initiation and providing essential support, such as funding, legal matters, and education. In addition to physical engagements like consultations and community workshops, digital engagement can extend and
sustain this legacy. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, have successfully connected residents in Eua and built a virtual community that continues to expand to overseas families and friends. This highlights the potential of utilizing social media as a platform for ongoing digital community engagement.
Digital Engagement Sustain the Virtual Community through Social Media
Physical Engagement
Direct Community Participation
Community
Lead the Activation
4.3 Detail Activation plan
Activation program - Public space Co-creation
Action
Initial Engagement
1. Introduce the design principle: Biophilia design, recycle materials and natural heritage
2. Identify community needs and aspirations for the public space
Physical
Public forum/ meeting
Project Launch
Design, planning, construction and Maintenance
Site identification and discussion on land ownership or legal matters
Discussion meeting
Community-led
Activation program - Education and promotion on Waste Management
Action
Initial and ongoing Engagement
1. Coordinate and Discuss with school and community representative/leader
2. Organize Education program
3. Promot Circular waste management concept
School Education Strengthen waste management knowledge into formal education syllables
Community promotion
Community-led events related to waste management
Physical
Public forum/ meeting/ workshop
Promotion or event (eg. Banner/Poster/booth)
Set up Recycle/rubbish Bins
School (primary and secondary)
Community-led
Digital Leadership Participatory ladder
Social media (Announcement and promotion)
Community representative (Coordination)
Government agency (direct connect with the community)
Relevant online communication
Community representative (Advocacy, Representation and decision making)
Informing community and Consultation
Government agency (direct connect with the community) Partnership
Local residents (Full leadership)
Place leadership and agency (Citizen-control )
Digital Leadership Participatory ladder
Social media (Initiate event eg.#Campaign or competition related to waste management)
Community representative (Coordination)
Government agency (direct connect with the community)
Relevant School Digital platfrom School or any community representative
Local residents (Full leadership)
Informing community and Consultation
Place leadership and agency (Citizen-control )
Place leadership and agency (Citizen-control )
4.4 Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitoring Practices
Stakeholder Meeting
Hold regular meetings with stakeholders to discuss progress, challenges, and adaptations needed based on evaluation findings.
Public Reporting
Regularly publish progress reports to keep the community informed and engaged, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Adaptive Management
Use the findings from monitoring and evaluation to make informed adjustments to the strategy and its implementation, ensuring it remains effective and responsive to community needs.
Evluation Plan
Short (Tatical) Term Goal ( Less than 2 weeks)
Goals Testing the Community’s stewardship on nature in place
Testing Community bonding and sense of belongings
Action Observe how people interacted to create a community space and their confidence in initiating and participating in projects.(eg. Events and small-scaled, temporary public spaces)
Evaluate the connection between people and the local nature, specifically the playground. (eg. Interview, Site Observation )
Measure the public understanding on Recycle and Waste Managerment ( Site Observation, Interviews, Events organized in a small-scale, temporary public space)
Short To Medium Term Goal (1-3 years)
Goals Strength Community’s stewardship on nature in place Enhance Community bonding and sense of belongings
Action Bi-annual review to understand community’s perception on stewardship, community bonding and sense of belongings (eg. Survey and Interview)
Quarterly Site Visit for observation (eg. Waste disposal in nature, community event)
Quarterly meeting with community leaders or representative on development on public Space (eg. Usage , feedback or challenges)
Long Term Goal (3-5+ years)
Goals Improve ecological and human health through Biophilia
Action Annual environmental assessment (eg. Change in green Space)
Annual health surveys (e.g., reduced stress levels, improved physical health)
Integrating circular waste management practice in Eua
Annual waste assessment (eg. reductions in waste, increases in recycling rates )
Annual community meetings on waste management practice
5.1 CONCEPT
What is Tactical Placemaking ?
Tactical Placemaking aims to ignite positive transformations in public spaces, enhancing quality of life and community cohesion. This approach focuses not only on functional aspects but also on fostering a sense of place, belonging, identity, and pride among users.
Contemporary approaches to placemaking primarily focused on small-scale and bottom-up development, encouraging public involvement in creating vibrant public spaces and fostering liveable neighbourhoods. These approaches highlight the importance of citizen participation in creating public spaces and cultivating meaningful relationships between residents and their environment (Wohl, 2017).
Eua community deeply rooted in their cultural heritage and connection to the land, sought to maintain their identity and resilience in the face of environmental changes. They also face challenges in reconnecting the community with their homeland due to the after marks of the tsunami disaster in 2022.
Applying small-scale and bottom up placemaking approach, our plan is to creating a small, short-term project to activate an underused public space, particularly located in tsunami affected areas, into an exciting playground for children. The primary goals of this tactical project are to:
• (1) Testing the connection between people and the local nature
• (2) Testing community connections
• (3) Showcasing opportunity for activating abandoned areas after the Tsunami
• (4) Showcasing opportunities for creative use of perceived waste to foster awareness and care for the environment.
As a part of our activation plan, the tactical placemaking project aims to serve as the trial of the activation program as wel as a catalyst for rebuilding community bonds among residents affected by the tsunami, emphasizing their deep-rooted connection with local nature and surroundings. Additionally, the project directly introduce the concept of Circular Waste Management to the community, by showcasing principle of recycle and reuse. This is part of our activation program in education and promotion on waste manegement, ultimately supporting our vision in addressing climate change adaptation.
Why Playground?
The idea of creating a children’s playground as our tactical placemaking project is rooted in stories gathered from Eua children and residents during our site visits. Throughout our community engagement, we discovered that children play a pivotal role in fostering resilience within the community. For instance, the Otumatafena group, comprising children from Blocks 1 and 2, actively participates in planting activities and serves as key connectors between children from different neighborhood blocks.
Hadeld-Hill (Hill, 2013) emphasizes that children are integral to household dynamics, family structures, friendship networks, consumer patterns, and community cohesion. Therefore, understanding their knowledge, actions, and aspirations concerning local and global environments is essential. Advocates for children’s participation similarly argue that children should be recognized as current citizens capable of and interested in influencing decisions that impact their lives. Inclusion is crucial for its well-documented positive effects on youth and the cultivation of an informed, engaged citizenry (Tarantini, 2016). Moreover, involving children in planning processes can enhance these processes by injecting creativity and fresh perspectives into design considerations.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, temporary playgrounds emerged as a movement in cities where movement was restricted. These temporary spaces creatively transformed areas not typically designated for play (Tarantini, 2016), ilustrating the flexibility underscores their suitability as tactical placemaking interventions that can transform underutilized spaces into vibrant community assets.
Based on our findings, a playground represents an excellent initial project to encourage active engagement from both adults and chil-
dren, granting all stakeholders a voice in community building. Integrating active play activities into the design process will further stimulate engagement and help transform tsunami-affected areas into potential play spaces, a primary objective of our tactical placemaking project.
Playground Ideas partnered with a local school to build this recycled playground, which utilized many used tires
Guatemala Playground
A recycled playground to look like a giant T-Rex. The children even came up with the design themselves
Site Location
The tactical playground acts as (1) a dynamic gathering space where residents from Ohonua can come together, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration, and (2) connection hub between the community and the natural heritage.
The decision to locate the project in Block 3 and 4 was driven by several key factors. First of all, these blocks feature the Ovava tree and a natural layout within an expansive grassy area and directly facing the ocean, which are identified as an important culural heritage. This setting not only showcases natural beauty but also provides a central connection between all the residential blocks. By placing the playground here, we aim to reestablish connections between the isolated blocks, such as Block 5 and 6, and encourage community interaction. Additionally, the open layout and natural sur-
A Sketch of The Site
The seleted location showcases natural beauty but also provides a central hub between all the residential blocks.
roundings create an inviting environment for hosting educational events. These events are designed not only to entertain but also to educate, drawing the interest and participation of residents across the community. Moreover, by choosing this location, we leverage the natural elements and symbolic significance of the native trees to enhance the project’s appeal and cultural relevance. This approach not only respects the local environment but also enriches the community experience by incorporating elements that residents can identify with and take pride in.
In summary, the decision to locate the playground in Block 3 and 4 reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive space that promotes social interaction, community engagement, and educational opportunities within Ohonua.
Biophilic Design - Nature in Space
The concept of biophilic design originated from biologist Edward O. Wilson’s (1984) book “Biophilia,” which explores humanity’s innate affinity for nature. While “biophilia” literally translates to “love of life,” Wilson and Yale professor Stephen Kellert expanded this notion to encompass fundamental human needs fulfilled through our connection with the natural world (Wilson,1984).
Biophilic design aims not only to visually stimulate our experiences but also to engage all our senses. This holistic approach is crucial for creating a profound emotional attachment and enhancing overall engagement with our immediate environment (Choi, 2018).
The temporary playground was meticulously designed with the intention of immersing users in their surroundings. In addition to incorporating recycled materials, the playground’s foundation is built using locally sourced natural materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers. These materials not only provide tactile experiences but also visually connect children with nature.
At the heart of the playground stands the ‘Ovava tree, revered as a natural playground in itself. ‘Ovava trees begin as host trees with roots and vines that grow outward, eventually reaching the ground. Eua children frequently climb these trees, navigating from branch to branch, making it an ideal playground for everyone. Moreover, the ‘Ovava tree provides natural shading for the playground, enhancing comfort and playability. Outdoor play at the playground is enriched by the sounds of birds, the gentle rush of ocean breezes, and the fragrant scent of nearby grasses. Coastal plants, alongside the culturally symbolic ‘Ovava plant—a testament to resilience—further deepen the non-visual connection to nature and
the changing seasons. Natural light is carefully utilized to enhance the overall experience, supported by studies indicating that children learn faster in well-lit environments and often express a preference for outdoor settings (Choi, 2018).
In healthcare settings, numerous studies highlight the benefits of biophilic elements in accelerating patient recovery rates, reducing medication dependency, alleviating stress among staff and families, and improving emotional wellness. Natural daylighting and views of nature play pivotal roles in these outcomes (Choi, 2018). The design of the playground also integrates local traditional crafts using natural materials such as coconut leaves and bamboo. Participants, including children and adults actively engaged in crafting coconut leaf baskets and creating sand play areas, enjoy sensory-rich experiences that contribute to a diverse and stimulating play environment.
In summary, the playground exemplifies biophilic design principles by integrating natural elements, engaging multiple senses, and fostering a deep connection to the environment. This approach not only enhances the play experience but also promotes well-being, learning, and community resilience through thoughtful design and utilization of natural resources.
Guardian Early Learning Centre, Barangaroo, by Collins and Turner
Daylit environment is the main Biophilic Elements used in this design
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital by RMJM and CPG Consultants (Architect of Record).
Greenery and water are brought into the heart of the hospital, attracting visitors for social and recreational reasons
Using Recycled Timber
Using recycled timber sourced from the Eua area, the kids participated in decorating the wood for the playground
Using Traditional Crafts using Coconut Leaves
The residents using coconut leaves to create baskets and balls - playing instruments - particpants also learned how to make the items.
Creating Sand Play Area
Chidren enjoyed the Sand Play Area - Partcipating in ceating game for Playground
Proposed Design for the ‘Ovava Playground
The temporary playground was meticulously designed with the intention of immersing users in their surroundings. At the heart of the playground stands the ‘Ovava tree, revered as a natural playground in itself. .
Inventing Using Waste
Using recycled materials is a cornerstone of our tactical placemaking strategy, aimed at demonstrating the potential of repurposing items otherwise considered waste and promoting the concepts of recycling and waste management within the community.
An engaging art project involving plastic water bottles exemplifies this initiative, showcasing creative ways to reuse bottles and inspiring residents, especially children, to invent new creations inspired by their surroundings. Additionally, recycled tires and timber logs were utilized in the project. Recycled rubber tires, for instance, were used in playground surfacing and as infill for sports fields, offering a sustainable alter-
native to traditional end-of-life tire disposal methods. In Tonga and Eua, where car usage is prevalent, the disposal of used tires poses challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature. Finding innovative ways to repurpose these tires not only addresses community waste management issues but also promotes environmental sustainability.
By incorporating these recycled materials into our placemaking efforts, we not only create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community. This approach encourages residents to rethink waste as a resource and actively participate in creating a cleaner, greener environment for everyone.
Self-Building with DIY Technqiues
The tactical playground was constructed using straightforward DIY techniques, making use of readily available materials within the community. Collaborating closely with skilled local craftsmen, we incorporated natural elements such as coconuts to invent new types of games for children to enjoy at the playground. Eua residents are renowned for their craftsmanship, and Tonga is celebrated for its traditional handicrafts like bone carving, wood carving, basket making, and intricate weaving using techniques passed down through generations. Local expertise in crafting handmade objects from materials like bamboo, coconut leaves, and ngatu cloth (made from mulberry tree bark) enriched the project. Residents and children from the surrounding areas actively participated in creating the playground, contributing their diverse skills and knowledge. This collaborative effort not only created a vibrant
and engaging playground but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the community. By utilizing local materials and skills, the project not only enhanced the physical space but also fostered a sense of pride and ownership among residents, promoting community involvement and sustainability
Using Disposed Tires for the Playground Design
The tires can be arranged in various configurations, and children actively engaged in decorating them
Resued Plastic Bottles and Using Local Traditional Art for creating the Playground
The Plastic Bottle Project aims to introduce the concept of recycling and innovative ways to utilize what is often considered waste. Traditional art was also incorporated into the playground’s decoration to foster a connection with the local culture
Self-Building DIY Techniques
The Tactical Playground was constructed using straightforward DIY techniques, making use of readily available materials within the community.
People Creating Their Own Place
The playground was designed with a temporary structure that could be easily rearranged and moved around. The skipping circles were modified by the children to create their own paths and methods of play.
As for decoration, the team initially started with a simple paint kupesi patterns on recycled timber panels, but soon the residents took over, including adults and mainly children. They implemented their own decoration ideas and decided on colors to design the playground.
During the construction process, we integrated events within the playground. One of our members showed a few kids how to make sun catchers from empty plastic bottles. Afterwards, the children independently taught others, and some even used recycled cans to create music stations. All tasks were performed and led by the participants. More activities were added throughout the process by the participants, such as drawing on the ‘Ovava trees, creating hand patterns with painted hands, and using coconut leaves to make pinwheels.
The Playground soon became a creation led by its own community
The children who participated changed the design pattern of the playground.
Creating Sun Catchers using Plastic Bottles
The participants independently taught to each other the new skills which they learned from the event.
5.2 PLACE EVALUATION
Goals and Measuring Metrics
The Tactical Playground Project was a key component of our strategy to measure the success of our placemaking plan. In a short timeframe, we focused on the following key points:
(1) People: We aimed to observe how people, particularly children, interacted to create a community space and their confidence in initiating and participating in projects. We also sought to assess how effectively people utilized provided resources and their understanding of waste and recycling concepts.Our team recorded interactions during events and presented them to the local community for feedback.
(2) Measurement of Place: Our goal was to understand the connection between people, especially
children, and nature, specifically the playground. We empowered the community to lead in measuring the impact of the place. The team documented before-and-after photos of the playground to track any changes. Additionally, we conducted a small survey among participants to explore memorable aspects of the activation. Through this, we learned about changes in community connection to the place, including their sense of belonging, pride, and willingness to care for the playground.
Our team come up with a set of indicator metrics to help in the evaluating of the effectiveness of Playground Project. The results are shown in the Evlaution Metrics Table below.
Partcipating in the Designing Process
Partcipating in Plastic Bottle Project Engaging with Surrounding Nature
in
“The Playground soon became a creation led by its own Community”
Evaluation
Sense of Belonging
A sense of belonging involves the centering of individual and shared meaning within a community and it ties us to the built environment. As a result, the community found the meaning within their living environment and form the sense, called ‘Place Attachment’. From the tactical playground project, few kids from block 3, 4,5 and 6, especially block 5 and 6 quite isolated from the other blocks
Place Attachment
At the start of the project, children from different blocks initially showed reluctance to take responsibility for the playground by picking up litter. However, following the events, a few children began actively cleaning the areas around the playground. Additionally, the following day, some returned to play there.
During the events, participants involved in creating the playground, both children and adults, interacted with the ‘Ovava tree, even marking them with their names. This interaction underscores the strong bond and connection between users and the space. Surveys conducted with children present on that day revealed that their first impression was of the ‘Ovava tree rather than the entire playground, indicating the formation of new positive memories within the community. The project was also presented to the community for feedback. Instead of recalling the area solely as a tsunami-affected region, many residents shared stories about the ‘Ovava tree and their fond memories of spending time under the tree shade with family. This shift highlights a renewed connection between the community and the previously neglected areas, symbolized by the presence of the ‘Ovava tree.
Evaluation (cont)
Nature Connection
The design of the playground has effectively facilitated a reconnection of people with local nature. During its creation, children and adults interacted with the surrounding environment, particularly with the ‘Ovava trees. Children climbed these trees, inscribed their names on them, and even contributed by collecting timbers to enhance the playground pathways.
After the playground’s unveiling to the Eua Community, there was significant interest in planting more ‘Ovava trees in Ohonua, especially along the coast. This initiative underscores a renewed appreciation for local nature and its role in community resilience, particularly in mitigating the impact of natural disasters like tsunamis. The ‘Ovava tree serves not only as a significant element of the local ecosystem but also as a symbol of hope and community strength, rooted deeply in the land. Its presence in the playground dessign has fostered a deeper connection among residents with their natural surroundings, enhancing community bonds and promoting a sustainable relationship with local nature.
Overall, the tactical Playground Project has played a pivotal role in reconnecting people to local nature by integrating natural elements like the ‘Ovava tree and encouraging active engagement with the environment.
Stewardship and Leadership
The use of repurposed materials such as tires, plastic bottles, and leftover construction timbers garnered enthusiastic engagement and support from both children and adults.
However, during the project, the team identified a gap in understanding regarding different types of waste, including organic (natural materials) and inorganic waste (plastics, metals, glass). Compounding this issue, public waste bins are not commonly found in local areas, which has contributed to challenges in waste management and maintaining community spaces free of litter. Nevertheless, the project revealed that leadership plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges. When adults or older children demonstrated how to identify and properly dispose of litter, younger children followed suit eagerly. This underscores the importance of leadership in initiating positive practices and raising awareness among community members.
This evidence highlights how a single act of leadership can serve as a catalyst for improving waste management practices and fostering a cleaner, more responsible community environment.
Children played with the ‘Ovava tree
The ‘Ovava Tree is renowned as a playground tree for children, allowing them to climb up and move from branch to branch using its sturdy roots
Children are actively engaged in designing activities at the ‘Ovava Playground. Writing their names and coloring the trees were among the most popular activities that attracted participants during the event.
One of the children’s drawing after the Tactical Project
The drawing showcases the cognitive connection with the ‘Ovava, which is the signicant natural heritage.
5.3 OUTCOMES
Achievements
From the Tactical Playground Project, we achieved the following outcomes, marking the initial success of our placemaking strategy:
• Local recognition of the power of native plants to rejuvenate neglected areas.
• Enhanced emotional connection between Eua residents and nature through the creation of positive memories.
• Increased visitation to an area neglected since the 2022 tsunami
Key Deliveries
These outcomes underscore the pivotal role of our tactical project in demonstrating the effectiveness of our overall placemaking strategy for Eua.
• Implementing small-scale projects based on community co-creation principles, like this one, serves as multiple focal points to activate our strategic plan. This approach revitalizes abandoned local areas in Ohonua, Eua, while reestablishing connections between residents and nature, which is especially crucial after the tsunami. By involving the community in the creation process, we empower them to assume leadership and ownership in improving their surroundings.
• Using projects such as the playground as educational hubs on recycling and waste management helps engage both children and adults in community events. These initiatives establish a strong foundation for all generations, particularly the younger generation, equipping them with essential skills to lead their communities.
• Collaboration between children and adults in building a playground together.
• High engagement in art creation using recycled materials, particularly plastic bottles.
• Empowerment of community members to take leadership in creating their own spaces.
• Raised initial awareness among children about the importance of keeping the area clean, despite gaps in waste management understanding
Ultimately, these efforts contribute to our vision of fostering a resilient community for future generations, ensuring a healthy Eua capable of meeting challenges posed by climate change.
5.4 COST AND IMPLEMENTATION
Project Cost
To implement the project within budget, we proposed using self-construction techniques with minimal resources and reused materials.
When working under tight budget constraints, two key principles should be considered:
• (1) Ehancing community identity and fostering connections between people and their environment through public spaces is crucial. This not only strengthens the bond between residents and their surroundings but also enhances interpersonal relationships.
• (2) As the saying goes, “time is money.” By investing time in careful planning and actively involving community members, we can save money and reduce the need for additional resources to bring our ideas to life.
The total project cost was approximately: $371.3 TOP (~$235.2 AUD)
Most of this budget went towards purchasing acrylic paints, while a smaller amount was used for stationary items such as scissors, tape, and permanent markers. We managed to keep construction costs minimal by using recycled items and natural materials such as tyres, old timber logs, panels, and empty plastic bottles.
Receipts for the purchases made for the Tactical ‘Ovava Playground Project
Total - $371.3 TOP ( ~$235.2 AUD)
Key Elements for Placemaking on a Budget
For this project, we have identified key strategies to activate the plan within budget while creating a unique placemaking project that can serve as a blueprint for future public spaces:
• Community Value-Based Project
Placemaking is not necessarily about large, extravagant projects. It’s about resonating with people by developing projects that are meaningful and relatable, making users of the space happy and content. To achieve this, understanding community values is crucial and involving them in the creation and construction process is essential ( Al Zelinka, Susan Jackson Harden , 2005). In our project, the ‘Ovava tree and the Ocean hold significant cultural value within the community. “Tonga is the people of the sea,” and the ‘Ovava tree symbolizes resilience in Tongan culture. These elements, combined with local materials, foster a deeper emotional connection among current residents with their past, invoking positive memories before the tsunami. Moreover, the playground was predominantly constructed by local residents, both builders and users. This not only reconnects people to the place but also significantly reduces labor costs in constructing the project.
• Utilizing Community Attributes
It is crucial to harness and explore all potential community attributes to develop placemaking projects that foster long-term ownership (Al Zelinka, Susan Jackson Harden , 2005). Every community possesses diverse skills, talents, interests, and creativity as unique as its residents. Involving community members in identifying what makes Eua distinct from other places and utilizing local talent not only enhances project uniqueness but also reduces outsourcing and transportation costs.
• Considering Perspectives of the Young Community
The youth are the future of Eua. Children possess immense talent and creativity. Many communities showcase their commitment to young people by incorporating their artistic skills into community-based art projects, such as tiles for walls and sidewalks (Al Zelinka, Susan Jackson Harden , 2005). This approach not only gives voice to the younger generation but also uncovers and nurtures their potential talents and skills, which are crucial for future placemaking developments. For example, Tonga is renowned for its traditional handicrafts such as bone carving, wood carving, basket making, and fine weaving. Integrating these into the design process not only adds a unique perspective but also introduces Tongan culture to a broader audience.
• Using Natural Environment
Creating spaces that leverage natural elements is considered one of the most effective approaches. Each community’s geographical setting offers unique natural features, including geology, climate, flora, fauna, and water bodies. For instance, integrating natural materials like logs, boulders, and sand into play areas instead of purchasing costly playground equipment encourages creative play and enhances durability. Furthermore, utilizing local trees to create natural shade structures not only reduces construction costs but also provides resilience against natural disasters.
The Oklahoma City National Memorial
The city invited youth activities through its ground-level chalkboards.
Paramount
The Los Angeles River Murals
Califonia (USA)
The city partnered with local artist and Army Corps of Engineers to complete the water-themes paintings
Basurama Temporary Amusement Park
Lima (Peru)
2010
The project implementation involved active self-construction using reused materials, as well as collaboration with local residents and various artists to design the temporary amusement park
5.5 TIMELINE
The basic structure of the tactical project was constructed within 3 hours , but the creating process was keeping contenting as the children took over the leadership and keeping creating the new elements for the playground. The whole process last around 5 hours in total.
The playground can be co-creating and contributing in the design by the community, children, young adults, seniors and local artists – incorporating some pernanents and non-pernmanents structures, so that the place could be involving to reflect the culture changes and different public engagements.
The current installed playground is a short-term tactical placemaking stratergy acting as a acupuncture tool to understand the interaction between the community and the place. For a more permanent structure, depend on the complexity, the project could be between 1-2 weeks.
Recommending using local resourse and loabour, enaging directly the community(children and young adults) , using the existing nature
or structure in the design process, it not only cut short the timeline for completion due to the decency on the outsources, but also creating a more unique and meaningful place to the community.
For example, the temporary amusement park in Basurama, the project works with garbage, encompassing both the material waste and consumer society and the abandoned space. Both local residents of Surquillo and different local artists were invite to activate the space by proposing the amusements and games to be installed. The project lead to the recovery of space beneath the works for the elevated electric railways. It took over an abandoned infrastructure and converted into a small amusement park within 2 weeks (Aurora Fernandez Per, 2008).
Temporary Amusement
Permanent Playground ( similar size with the Tactical Project)
Public spaces/ Playgrounds with permanent and non-permanent structures
Evolving the non-permanent structures within public spaces over time
ground
Goal Milestone Tactical Project
Community’s stewardship on nature in place
Community bonding and sense of belongings
Sense of Place and owernship
Cultural understanding on natural heritage
Awareness of waste management
Increase Social activities and encouter
Better relationship within communities
Improve ecological and human health throught Biopilla
Integrating circular waste management practices
Enhance Biopilla (human-nature connection)
Better Human well-being (Imporved emontion)
Impove overall health of human annd nature
Integrate circular waste management in dailiy action (Individual)
Equiped with sensibility and knowledge to develop and operate sustainable waste management system (community-based)
Commenced Achieved
Preliminary result from the acupuncture
um Term
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Anh Nguyen, Master of Architecture, University of Melbourne
Ka Sin Adelaide Lee, Master of Urban Planning, University of Melbourne
Shiyi Zhang, Master of Landscape Architecture , University of Melbourne
