We are working with the City of Edmonton to support it's "New Urban Trees and Naturalization" project!

We are engaging with underrepresented BPoC populations to garner nuanced perspectives on the connections between trees and outdoor recreation.

The project seeks to revitalize Edmonton's green spaces , by planting 2 million new trees. One of the targeted outcomes is to facilitate opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The collaboration focuses on promoting inclusive and accessible outdoor recreational opportunities for for Black, and People of Color (BPoC) below the poverty line. 

This project aims to ensure that Edmonton's urban forests are welcoming spaces where diverse groups can enjoy nature, participate in recreational activities, and feel a sense of belonging. 

By fostering inclusivity in these green spaces, the initiative supports community well-being and encourages greater engagement with Edmonton's natural environment.

JELL has partnered with the University of Alberta's Black Youth for Social Innovation program (BYSI). In collaboration, we have a team of three Black students working as research assistants with JELL.

Our collaboration with JELL is called 'Color in Green'.  and focuses on the City of Edmonton's initiative, 'Greener as We Grow',  to plant 2 million trees. We are researching how this project and its public feedback component engage marginalized communities in planning to ensure no barriers, particularly regarding outdoor recreation.  In this study we will use participatory mapping and focus group discussions, to examine the barriers to outdoor recreation participation in tree-shaded areas (e.g., urban forests).

BYSI Website:

https://www.ualberta.ca/social-sciences-humanities/projects-initiatives/black-youth-for-social-innovation-program.html