In this session local government and community leaders will share how they engage citizens in innovative co-creation processes to make space for more nature and thereby change neighbourhoods into places that these very citizens like to spend time in. These leaders use nature as a driver for regenerating public spaces, alleviating environmental and societal challenges and inviting citizens to take a seat, have a chat or move more. These examples show how nature can help create cultural and spatial identity and connection in different urban settings. The municipal and community speakers will share their vision and on-the-ground approach, offering a helping hand for other cities to take first steps. The policy speaker will reflect on how political and legislative frameworks can support upscaling such interventions to make biodiverse and inclusive nature a priority in our cities.
Speakers
- Helen Nilsson, Environment Department, City of Malmö, Sweden
- Sean Bradley, CLEVER Cities Programme Manager, Groundwork, London, UK
- Karla Hurtado Montero, Environmental Analyst, Secretariat of Environment, City of Quito, Ecuador – TBC
- Julie Delcroix, DG RTD, European Commission
Session overview
13:45-13:50 CEST | Welcome remarks
13:50-14:05 CEST | Examples from our speakers
In the first part of this interview-style session, local leaders will talk about their experience in co-creating biodiverse, inviting spaces for all through locally-based projects.
14:05-14:25 CEST | Discussion with municipal and community speakers
The speakers will then elaborate on the projects they implemented, sharing with the audience the technical expertise needed when adopting innovative approaches to urban planning.
14:25-14:35 CEST | Reflections by a policy-maker
14:35-14:45 CEST | Questions from the audience
