This project focuses on the Sydvaranger iron ore mine, located in northern Norway. The operation of this mine has caused severe damage to the local environment, such as solid waste pollution, air pollution and water pollution. Research indicates that a native plant, Myricaria germanica, can still grow in the mining area. Surprisingly, this plant has the ability to restore the environment by removing polluted elements from the soil. Moreover, it is also considered a traditional medicinal herb.

Following from Norway’s ‘18 Scenic Routes’ program, created by the Norwegian government, a trail is designed along the edge of the iron ore mine to connect the mining area to the port city of Kirkenes. This trail takes advantage of Myricaria germanica’s abilities to attend to this project’s main purpose: To cope with severe environmental problems and rewild this open-pit mine.

The total length of the trail is 6km, which will be divided into five sections. Various nodes on the path support multiple functions, including herb farming, herb drying, meeting, birding, playing and gathering. Within a few decades, this huge iron ore mine will be ecologically and socially rewilded.