Cities as drivers for change
31 May 2010. Urban biodiversity and the role of local administrations in managing natural resources have become central issues in international debates on conservation. A growing body of scientific evidence attests that well-managed urban natural areas confer wide-ranging, tangible benefits to both humans and wildlife. For example, a recent study published in the Environmental Science and Technology Journal, revealed that by exercising in green natural areas for just 5 minutes each day, people can improve their mood, bolster their self-esteem and alleviate mental health problems (Barton & Pretty 2010).
Another recent study published in the Journal of Landscape Ecology underlines the importance of urban natural areas for wildlife. It revealed that even small patches of urban forest can contribute significantly to the survival of migrating birds (Mathews & Rodewald 2010). Scientific studies such as these are compelling local governments to take afford greater attention to urban biodiversity as testified by a number of key international conferences that are taking place in this period to discuss how cities can better contribute to the health of people and our planet.
From 19 to 21 May the 6th European Sustainable Cities & Towns Conference took place in Dunkerque, France. The conference focused on identifying what changes are needed to political frameworks and exploring how different sectors can cooperate to advance sustainable development in Europe. See more.
From 28 to 30 May Bonn, Germany, will host “Resilient Cities 2010″, the first edition of the annual global forum on urban resiliency and adaptation to climate change. Resilient Cities 2010 is an opportunity to share the latest scientific findings, state-of-the-art approaches and effective programs on climate change adaptation and resilience-building in cities and urbanized areas. See more.
From 3 to 5 June, the 1st International Congress on Urban and Environmental Issues and Policies will take place in Trabzon, Turkey. The event aims to give opportunity to approach urban and environmental issues and policies in terms of social sciences (politics, economics, management, law, sociology, etc.). See more.
