Connective Cities program on municipal recovery from Covid-19 pandemic

Role of urban and rural municipalities in Biodiversity protection and Green Growth


Thematic focus of the virtual event

Biodiversity and environmental protection are highlighted in recovery plans from the pandemic’s impacts based on the notion that if biodiversity is at risk, humans among other species may lose the very foundation of their existence. Urban and rural areas alike host rich biodiversity and offer a unique landscape that support a diversity of flora and fauna and diverse natural urban ecosystems. When well-preserved, the natural ecosystems can contribute to public health and increase the quality of life of inhabitants. There are several examples of actions by local governments that aim to promote a comprehensive and integrated approach to biodiversity and ecosystem services for the sustainable development of urban and rural municipalities. As such, cities can play an important role in halting biodiversity loss and improving human well-being.

 

This virtual event showcases a selection of innovative initiatives in ecosystem management and natural infrastructure that play an important role in building resilience of economies and societies.

 

Objectives of the virtual event

This virtual event is held as part of the activities of the ‘Biodiversity and environmental protection’ working group.[1] It demonstrates good practice example on municipal leadership and commitment to improve biodiversity protection and successful local actions in the field of biodiversity management. By participating in this event, municipal and urban practitioners will:

  • gain awareness of the importance of biodiversity in an urban context and the value of ecosystem services
  •  comprehend the impact of municipal activities on biodiversity and the relevance of integrating biodiversity management in local planning
  • gain an overview of the different areas where local governments can actively engage in biodiversity protection based on successful local governments on-the-ground actions
  • encourage city-to-city partnerships and alliances to address biodiversity management issues

 

The Agenda

Time (CEST)

Agenda

Details

10:50-11:00

Signing in

 

11:00-11:05

Technical check-in

Connective Cities- Tech Host

11:05-11:15

Welcome remarks & introduction:

  • Words of welcome
  • Introduction of participants

Ms. Hanane Haber

 

11:15-12:00

Good practice presentation:

Hannover – Germany

Species-rich meadows in the city and surrounding countryside

 

Menjez – Lebanon

A model-municipality in northern Lebanon rural area

 

Ms.  Beate Butsch-

Hannover, Germany

Department of Environment and Urban Green Space

 

 

Dr. Georges Youssef

Mayor of Menjez, Lebanon

12:00-12:15

Integration of biodiversity into local government responsibilities via digital environmental governance tools

Mr. Rami Kanaan
GIS Speciallist, Accumapping

12:15-12:30

Way forward and support by Connective Cities

Closing remarks

Dr. Muna Shalan

Connective Cities network coordinator for the MENA region

 

 

[1] The biodiversity and environment protection working group is part of the green urban development cluster, and can be accessed via this link.

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