Dynamic Growth of “Pioneer Trees” as a Basis for Recreational Revitalization of Old Urban Landfills: A Case Study of Zgierz, Central Poland

Urban tree biodiversity represents a valuable natural resource. However, some fast-growing tree species with limited esthetic value play an important ecological role by colonizing degraded areas, such as closed landfills. Our observations indicate that trees like Betula pendula (Roth), Acer negundo (L.), and Populus tremula (L.) reached the size of adult trees in less than 30 years after the landfill’s closure in the 1990s, forming a nature area similar to a natural forest. A resident survey conducted among the inhabitants of Zgierz confirmed that the lack of space provides opportunities for various forms of recreation. The example analyzed indicates a trend that can be replicated in other cities with minimal human intervention and low financial costs for landfill reclamation. The case study presents an ecological approach to managing degraded sites, where nature determines the quality of the soil environment by eliminating pollutants from the residential surroundings. Furthermore, the research framework provides a basis for developing future models for cleaning up urban landfill sites and promoting placemaking. This pilot study shows a model for old landfills in Europe with well-developed spontaneous vegetation that can be transformed into recreation and sports facilities in the urban areas with industrial past times.