Biodiversity in the city: The 7 most important factors explained
Urban environments are highly efficient, however often lack biodiversity. Yet it is possible to create thriving ecosystems, even in cities. Here are 7 of the most important factors for biodiversity in cities.
Jonathan Eade
ESG Lead
Biodiversity, or the variety of life on our planet, is vitally important for the health and sustainability of ecosystems not to mention our very own existence. Overlooked until recently, bio-diversity is now getting a lot of focus with a framework recently agreed at the UN’s COP 15 conference in December last year to ensure it doesn’t get forgotten. Urban environments, such as our cities and towns, often have lower biodiversity compared to natural areas, but it is still possible to create and maintain diverse and thriving ecosystems in the city.
Here are seven important factors to consider when promoting biodiversity in the city:
- Green spaces are key! Parks, gardens, and nature reserves, all provide habitats and resources for a whole variety of species. These spaces can also help to improve air quality, reduce noise, the effects of heat, and provide recreational and educational opportunities for people.
- Habitat connectivity. By connecting different green spaces within our cities we can facilitate the free movement of species between habitats and increase their chances of survival. This can be easily achieved through the creation of green corridors, such as green roofs, green walls, and tree-lined streets.
- Water management. Urban environments often have a high demand for water, which can lead to the depletion of natural water sources and the alteration of hydrological systems. Implementing sustainable water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse, can help to conserve water and create habitats for aquatic species.
- Invasive species control. Invasive species, which are non-native plants and animals that outcompete native species for resources, can have negative impacts on biodiversity. Controlling and removing invasive species is important to protect native species and their habitats.
- Pollution reduction. Air, water, and noise pollution, can all have negative impacts on the health and survival of species (not to mention ourselves). Reducing pollution through the implementation of sustainable practices and technologies can greatly help to protect and promote biodiversity in our cities.
- Education, outreach and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the actions that individuals and communities can take to protect it, is crucial for its conservation. Such programs can help to engage people in biodiversity-related activities and often inspire them to make positive changes in their own lives too!
- Biodiversity conservation efforts are often more successful when they involve a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, community organisations, businesses, and individuals. Collaboration and partnerships can help to bring together different perspectives and resources to support biodiversity in the city.
By considering and addressing these factors, cities can become more biodiverse and sustainable, providing benefits for both the natural environment and the people who live in them. It goes without saying that real estate has a huge role to play in this space too.
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December 23, 2022
