Networks and cities' news

The Anti-Rumour Strategies as a tool to foster coexistence and reduce discrimination

BiodiverCity Project Represented at Key URBACT Event in Paris

The BiodiverCity project was proudly represented by its Lead Partner and Lead Expert at a dynamic three-day URBACT gathering in Paris, which concludes today. The event brought together Action Planning Networks and National URBACT Points for insightful exchanges, peer reviews, and collaborative reflections on Integrated Action Plans.

Throughout the event, participants explored best practices in storytelling, integrated urban development, and participatory planning methods. The BiodiverCity team actively contributed to and benefited from discussions aimed at enhancing the quality and impact of local action planning across Europe. The experience adds valuable momentum as the project continues its mission to foster greener and more inclusive urban spaces.

Bees Between the Tower Blocks Urban Beekeeping Blossoms in Veszprém

In an innovative step towards boosting urban biodiversity, Veszprém has joined the growing movement of urban beekeeping – bringing buzzing life to the city's rooftops and green pockets. As part of the international BiodiverCity project, two bee colonies, thanks to the collaboration with Bakonynektár beekeepers.

But this isn’t just about honey.

The initiative is a living experiment, asking a vital question: Can pollinators thrive in our urban environments? With over 33 m² of green space per capita – a national benchmark – and accessible parks within 500 metres of every residential area, Veszprém is already setting the stage for sustainable urban ecosystems. Flowering meadows, trees, green roofs, and semi-natural habitats provide crucial support to birds, insects, and now, bees.

Exploring Smart Futures in Alba Iulia: EcoCore Core Network Meeting Energises Green Transition Momentum

From May 19–22, the historic city of Alba Iulia, Romania, hosted the latest EcoCore Core Network Meeting, gathering municipal leaders, sustainability experts, and URBACT partners to exchange ideas and accelerate the green transition in small cities. From the moment partners arrived, Alba Iulia’s trademark warmth and hospitality wrapped everyone in a sense of belonging. 
 

The event spotlighted Alba Iulia’s impressive journey as one of Romania’s most ambitious urban innovators - a city that has reinvented itself through vision, EU funding, and smart partnerships.
 

Osona: participatory planning for a new interurban bus system

Osona’s rural and semi-urban areas suffer from fragmented bus services and car dependency. Five decentralized workshops with 40 of 52 municipalities co-designed proposals for demand-responsive transport (DRT) pilots, fare unification and extended service hours. This stakeholder-led model provides a replicable blueprint for rural mobility planning across Europe.

CITISENSE Second Transnational Meeting: Two Days of Urban Innovation in Liepāja, Latvia

May 27 & 28, 2025 | Liepaja, Latvia