GLASGOW is teaming up with 11 cities across Europe to work on projects which enhance the value of nature.
The council has joined the Cities With Nature group, designed to help cities collaborate on environmental issues. In total, the group has 128 member cities in 45 countries and means Glasgow can work with, and use the knowledge of, the other partners.
Glasgow is expected to host a Connecting Nature summit in May next year, when the member cities will showcase, to 500 delegates from around Europe, what is being done in terms of climate adaptation.
Councillor Anna Richardson, city convener for sustainability and carbon reduction in Glasgow, said: “Becoming a member of the Cities with Nature Group will allow Glasgow to share with and learn from our partners on how we can best use nature-based solutions to improve the city not only environmentally, but economically and socially.
“Given the current and future impact of climate change, it is vital that we use these solutions to mitigate the impact, and work with and foster nature where we can to improve our quality of life."
Nature-based solutions is defined by the European Commission as solutions “inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits and help build resilience”.
Glasgow City Council says examples include its Open Space Strategy, which aims to help the city adapt to climate change, create a more attractive urban environment, and improve air quality.
It also cites schemes across which deal with flooding, unlock land near water for homes and development, and stalled spaces projects such as pop-up gardens, growing spaces and wildlife gardens.
The Cities with Nature group is hosted by ICLEI – Local Governments for sustainability, and includes London and Manchester among its European cities.
ICLEI is a network of more than 1750 local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development.
