As our project is coming to an end and nearly all the IAPs have been completed, we are launching an engaging post series to showcase interviews with our partners. Find below the secind interview from Guimarães:
In a few sentences, how would you describe your IAP? What is its main focus or goal?
To promote a resilient urban ecosystem and enhance biodiversity in Guimarães by strengthening connectivity and improving habitats within a radial area around the city centre.
What local challenges or needs does your IAP address?
The IAP of Guimarães addresses key local challenges related to urban biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Despite significant progress in expanding green areas, the city still faces habitat fragmentation, with limited ecological connectivity between parks, rivers, and green spaces. Other major issues include urban pressure, climate change impacts such as heatwaves and flooding, low and uneven tree canopy coverage, and the spread of invasive alien species that threaten native ecosystems. Additionally, there is a need to strengthen public awareness and community involvement in biodiversity conservation.
What are the most innovative or inspiring elements of your plan?
The most innovative aspects of the Guimarães IAP are its integrated, community-based, and science-driven approach. It connects fragmented green areas through ecological corridors and nature-based solutions like ponds, meadows, and urban forests. The BioGO! citizen science app engages residents in biodiversity monitoring, linking data and community action. The plan also combines education, culture, and participation through initiatives such as community gardens and the BiodiverCity Festival, making biodiversity restoration a shared and inspiring mission for the whole city
What are the most valuable lessons your city learned during the BiodiverCity project?
The most valuable lessons Guimarães learned during the BiodiverCity project were the importance of ecological connectivity, community participation, and knowledge exchange between cities. The project showed that restoring biodiversity requires not only technical solutions but also strong collaboration among citizens, institutions, and experts. Through transnational learning, Guimarães adopted new approaches to riparian restoration, urban forestry, and nature-based solutions. The experience also highlighted the power of citizen science and education in promoting long-term behavioural change. Overall, the city learned that integrating biodiversity into urban planning is most effective when it combines scientific evidence, participatory governance, and local identity.
Can you describe one good practice from your city that others could learn from?
A valuable practice from Guimarães is the creation of the Landscape Laboratory more than 10 years ago, an institution that brings together science, governance, and community participation to guide sustainability policies. It connects research and decision-making, ensuring that environmental actions are based on evidence and local needs. The Laboratory also coordinates biodiversity monitoring, citizen science, and education programs, supported by a clear long-term vision and strong political consensus through the Guimarães 2030 strategy.
What was your favourite moment or memory from the BiodiverCity project?
Our favourite moments from the BiodiverCity project were the informal exchanges and strong sense of connection that developed among the partner cities. Beyond the formal meetings, the most inspiring experiences came from moments of sharing ideas, challenges, and successes in an open and collaborative atmosphere. Visiting other cities and seeing their good practices first-hand was truly enriching, providing practical inspiration for our own work in Guimarães. Equally rewarding was the opportunity to welcome all partners to Guimarães, share our projects, and showcase our city’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement.
If you could describe the project in three words, what would they be?
Collaborative. Inspiring. Transformative
Any final thoughts or messages for the URBACT and BiodiverCity community?
The BiodiverCity project has shown that cities can make a real difference when they work together, share experiences, and put people at the heart of biodiversity action. For Guimarães, this journey confirmed that collaboration is key to building more resilient, nature-friendly cities. We’re grateful to the URBACT and BiodiverCity partnership for the inspiration, friendship, and learning along the way.
