A group of developers hope to unite several Linux-based mobile distributions with a common Android base that will make it easier for them to run on Android hardware.
The developers are aiming to create a better way for non-Android GNU/Linux distributions like Ubuntu Touch, Sailfish OS, Plasma Mobile, and others to make progress in the context of porting an OS to Android hardware.
Many of these projects were on the go before Canonical started Ubuntu Touch, and the projects continue.
See http://www.zdnet.com/article/linux-on-android-smartphones-project-halium-wants-your-handset-to-run-ubuntu-sailfish/ 
Linux on Android smartphones: Project Halium wants your handset to run Ubuntu, Sailfish | ZDNet
Developers hope to create a common Android base to fix Linux mobile fragmentation.