Networks and cities' news

Quarto d'Altino: A Sustainable Future through Culture and Cohesion

In recent years, the Municipality of Quarto d'Altino, through the actions of its local government, has embarked on an ambitious path to address the environmental and social challenges of its territory. A key part of this effort is the URBACT GreenPlace initiative, a European program promoting sustainable urban development through collaboration and the exchange of best practices among cities.

Portrait Series #5: Crossing Seas, Breaking Barriers: Yahya’s Refugee Story

Yahya's journey is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination for those who seek to escape systemic discrimination and violence. Born to parents from Darfurand raised in central Sudan, Yahya faced relentless racism and physical violence, which eventually forced him to flee in search of safety and dignity. His difficult journey to Europe highlights the challenges faced by many refugees. From Egypt to Fundão, through Libya and a dangerous crossing of the Mediterranean Sea, Yahya's story illustrates both the desperate circumstances that drive migration and the enduring hope for a better future. His arrival in Fundão, Portugal, marked not only the end of his physical journey but also the beginning of a new chapter, in which he dedicates himself to helping other migrants. This narrative emphasize Yahya's experiences and his significant role at the Migration Centre of Fundão, offering a poignant insight into the human face of the global refugee crisis.

Core Network Meeting Aarhus - Participation and Democracy.

On how policy choices are reflected in organizational structures and language use

Green rooftops, green walls and street shadowing with green

Green elements are becoming increasingly important, especially in urban and urbanised environments. The BiodiverCity Action Planning Network aims at increasing urban green, contributing to a healthy living environment. But exactly within the urban setting, there is often no or insufficient space at ground level. Green walls and rooftops are a valuable alternative to overcome this shortage. And creating shade is one of the most effective ways to keep people cool. Click on the link below to discover the world of green rooftops, walls and street shadowing with green.

Read the whole article HERE, written by ms. Marieke Muilwijk:

Ready citizen one: the metaverse cities are on their way, and it’s not urban fiction

The “METACITY” Action Planning Network, funded by the EU URBACT IV programme, is now entering into the final course of its planning stage, with its 10 partners developing the first versions of its Integrated Action Plans, that will bring them one step closer to a strong presence in the metaverse. And no, this is not science fiction or even urban fiction, as they have already tested and will now start to prepare for implementing real actions that will put technology at the service of their citizens.

Gender aspects in planning urban green spaces

For us humans, gender largely determines how we use public space and to what extent we appropriate it. Yet it is a lagging issue in design. Public spaces are supposed to connect us, but we see a clear divide from our early years, which is really only based on assumptions rather than needs. BiodiverCity’s ad-hoc expert, Marieke Muilwijk explains that gender sensitive urban planning methods are not about feminism, but about doing things better.