The sites are heterogeneous and have different degrees of degradation, resulting in different intervention needs and opportunities. It is crucial to understand which species appear in nature as groups and to design the planting design accordingly. Mother trees, flowering periods and storability of seeds need to be known and the planting has to be adapted according to suitable planting periods. In the nursery, the focus on good root systems of the seedlings is key, requiring appropriate nursing equipment, substrate and trained staff.

The project follows a co-management approach from the outset - partner communities and local authorities have been consulted prior to planning and implementation. They have been actively involved in all steps of the project implementation, received training and were compensated for their efforts (planting). Examples include the integration of their local knowledge about the selected species and the benefits such as NTFPs.

In Abu Dhabi, Breathable Sand technology has helped with the growing of peanuts, mung beans, and black-eyed peas on some farms, while mango and lemon orchids have also shown fruitful results in 18 months.

Most vegetables in Abu Dhabi are imported and/or shipped from nearby cities such as Dubai. Famers now can grow local vegetables and fruits to serve the local families.  The quality of the product is also good, and the water usage is only 20% of what typical needs because uncontrolled infiltration is greatly reduced thanks to the Breathable Sand.

The current farm includes 500-square-meter arable land to plant vegetables and fruits, and 100,000 square meters of land in Ras Al Khaimah is being prepared for additional applications.

A temple tree, jasmine, a coconut tree, roses, and six varieties of hibiscus, are in full bloom in a home garden in Dubai, which don’t grow in the desert environment normally.  Thanks to the "Breathable Sand" technology, water is saved and also plants grow healther.