The Urban Renaturation Alliance, for sustainable cityscapes


Nature in cities: challenges and opportunities
for urban environments

The intricate interplay between urban environments and nature stands as a critical concern for societies worldwide, presenting both multifaceted challenges and avenues for sustainable development. This global issue underscores the imperative to comprehend and manage natural elements effectively within urban settings. Across diverse cities and communities, a common thread emerges: elected officials and their services often grapple with insufficient resources and tools to navigate the complexities associated with integrating nature into urban landscapes.

On a global scale, the deficit in specific tools for data collection on trees and green spaces is evident, with over 80% of municipalities and green space services in various countries facing this challenge. This data gap not only impedes informed decision-making but also obstructs the implementation of effective policies for urban environmental management.

In response to these challenges, the evolution of landscape professions becomes paramount to master the deployment, maintenance, and monitoring of nature-infused infrastructure. Dedicated tools are crucial in supporting and facilitating these transformative efforts. Pioneering technological solutions, exemplified by the Ecoteka platform developed by the Alliance for Urban Renaturation, offer tangible solutions to address these global needs.

Goals of the Alliance for Urban Renaturation

The Alliance for Urban Renaturation is a collaborative endeavor aiming to co-build the Ecoteka platform, drawing expertise and tools from complementary professionals worldwide. Its primary purpose is to co-create the open-source digital platform Ecoteka, offering solutions, tools, and a systemic vision to green space service actors in cities and communities globally.

The central objective of the Alliance is to catalyze the transition of communities worldwide towards more sustainable and resilient urban spaces. To achieve this, it focuses on several strategic axes:

  1. Inventory and Management of Green Spaces: Conducting detailed inventories of natural spaces in cities worldwide, the Alliance provides local decision-makers with valuable information for effective and long-term resource management.

  2. Intuitive and Connected Interface: Developing an intuitive interface that integrates diverse features, including remote sensors, weather stations, and local services, the Alliance facilitates decision-making and monitoring of urban management operations on a global scale.

  3. Promotion of Nature in the City: The Alliance is committed to promoting nature in cities globally by raising awareness among citizens and encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly practices.

In summary, the Alliance for Urban Renaturation embodies the hope for a greener and more sustainable future for urban dwellers worldwide. Through the collective commitment of its members, the Alliance demonstrates a shared dedication to preserving our planet and ensuring a thriving environment for future generations.

The Alliance for Renaturation members

Meet the Alliance’s members:
a union for urban renaturation

The Urban Renaturation Alliance goes beyond a typical professional collaboration; it signifies a robust partnership among five visionary companies, joined by their shared dedication to urban sustainability and the preservation of nature within city landscapes.

  1. Natural Solutions (Michael Belluau, Laëtitia Bucari Manu, Eric Woloch, Audrey Fortassin, Dominique Sarraihl): Technological experts in biodiversity and the environment, Natural Solutions contributes to the global development of the Ecoteka platform, showcasing concrete achievements in sustainable management of natural resources.

  2. Arbre, Ville & Paysage (Frédéric Ségur): An expert in urban renaturation strategy, this company brings valuable experience in urban forestry and tree heritage management, offering strategic and technical advice globally.

  3. La Société Forestière (Xavier Baumont): Providing consulting services for public and private actors globally, La Société Forestière focuses on themes such as forestry tree inventory, management plans, and solutions to combat urban heat islands.

  4. Îlõ & Nepsen (Alexandre Colin): Collaborating closely for over a decade, these organizations offer expertise in technical studies, instrumentation, and urban planning advice globally, particularly in addressing urban heat islands.

  5. Urbasense (Thomas Bur, Michael Fayaud): Working towards increasing the presence of trees globally, Urbasense develops innovations to reduce water consumption in urban green spaces, combining ecological expertise with information and communication technologies.

Together, these entities of the Alliance for Urban Renaturation embody the diversity of skills and expertise needed to build a greener and more sustainable urban future on a global scale. Through their collaboration and shared commitment, they pave the way for a positive transformation of urban spaces where nature thrives.

Translation by Naïma Pierre

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