Seminar-Nature based solutions for climate change adaptation
Speaker- Dr. Panagopoulos, University of Algarve
Seminar Title:
Abstract:
Mass urbanization presents one of the most urgent challenges of the 21st century. A fast-growing percentage of the European population lives in urban areas. Quality of city life and the attractiveness of cities are key parameters for success in the global competition for growth. It will be presented a case of biophilic urbanism using a project of river restoration. The project was inspired by nature-based solutions to reduce the risks of climate change. The new urban design for Portuguese cities reflects humanity's innate need for contact with nature. The project created a sense of place by recovering a stream, and bringing live in streets reconnecting citizens with nature and the history of the place. The green and blue infrastructure provide multiple socio-cultural benefits and ecosystem services. It is less cost-intense and brings long-term benefits that will enhance city resilience and improve human health and wellbeing. Environmental justiceshould be considered in urban planning. More research is needed on biophilic planning approaches for different size cities, located in various climatic zones, with diverse ethnic composition, income, quality of urban life.