Networks and cities' news

Catch up on the latest updates from cities working together in URBACT Networks. The articles and news that are showcased below are published directly by URBACT’s beneficiaries and do not necessarily reflect the programme’s position.

Want to learn more about the projects that are featured here? Discover the URBACT Networks.

 

 

  • Forest Festival – BiodiverCity Festival in Limerick

    As part of the URBACT BiodiverCity project, Limerick City and County Council proudly presents the Limerick Forest Festival — a joyful celebration of Ireland’s National Tree Week taking place on Sunday, 9th March in the beautiful surroundings of Baggot Estate.

    András Merza

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  • BiodiverCity Project Showcased in Finland during Erasmus+ STEAMCRAFT Meeting

    András Merza

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  • Testing Action Wildflower ID Swatch in Limerick

    Yellow flowers in a field

Description automatically generatedFind below one excellent example about a real action: 

    "our rationale for this testing action to create something unique to Limerick to assist LCCC staff and the public identify and record 25 species of native wildflower. The ID swatch is based on 25 species of wildflower found in Corbally Meadow, one of the most botanical species rich sites in the city. It is hoped the local aspect will help raise/educate public awareness around the value of native local wildflower seed as opposed to buying in non-local flowers that would not be as beneficial to local species in their larval and adult lifecycle as a source of food and habitat.

    The Process involved procuring a local botanist to help determine the 25 species to be included in the swatch and to provide the images and detailed text for the life cycle and interesting species facts for "

    András Merza

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  • Have you ever tried beehive therapy? Have you ever met a biodiversity officer?

    In this edition, we dive into the transformative work of Local Authority Biodiversity Officers in Ireland, explore urban beekeeping as a tool for engagement, and discover how public parks can evolve into climate-resilient biodiversity hubs. We also take a closer look at groundbreaking initiatives like Limerick’s first Natural Play Area, permaculture gardens in Slovenia, and innovative tree and park management in Budapest.

    Ferenc Szigeti-Böröcz

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  • How Did Biodiversity Become a Core Organising Principle of Urban Development in Guimarães, Europe’s Green Capital 2026?

    Urban biodiversity is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of sustainable city development. As cities continue to expand, the preservation and integration of biodiversity within urban landscapes become increasingly important, both for ecological balance and the well-being of residents. Guimarães, a city in northern Portugal, has emerged as a model for biodiversity-driven urban planning, integrating nature-based solutions into its governance framework.

     

    Ferenc Szigeti-Böröcz

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  • Biodivercity at the Inclusion4Schools Final Event

    As part of the BiodiverCity URBACT project, the Municipality of Vratsa participated in the final event of the Inclusion4Schools Horizon 2020 project, sharing their expertise in co-design and co-planning methodologies.

    During the event, Vratsa representatives introduced the Urban Local Group (ULG) method, highlighting how collaborative urban planning fosters inclusive and sustainable solutions. Their experience in engaging diverse stakeholders in the co-creation of green and resilient urban spaces resonated with participants, reinforcing the importance of participatory approaches in both education and urban development.

    By bridging social inclusion and environmental sustainability, Vratsa continues to play a key role in shaping people-centered urban policies within the BiodiverCity network.

    András Merza

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