Nature-based solutions (NbS) are strategies that use nature and natural processes to address various environmental and societal challenges. These solutions leverage the inherent benefits of ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and green spaces, to achieve multiple goals, including mitigating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, improving water quality, and providing various social and economic benefits. Nature-based solutions are sustainable approaches that work with, rather than against, nature to address pressing global issues, while fostering resilience and promoting well-being.

In this article, we will explore the advantages of nature-based solutions and learn more about the CLEARING HOUSE project. Furthermore, we are excited to announce a forthcoming webinar series, co-organised with Metropolis and the European Forum on Urban Forestry.

CLEARING HOUSE: Transforming Urban Living Through Urban Forests

The CLEARING HOUSE project fully embraces the potential of nature-based solutions by focusing on the strategic use of trees and urban forests. The project is harnessing the power of nature-based solutions to enhance urban living in both Europe and China. Collaborating with ten cities and urban regions, this project is set to create an innovative online application, a global benchmark tool, and comprehensive guidelines for the design, governance, and management of urban forests. By using trees as a key component, CLEARING HOUSE aims to transform urban landscapes, improve the environment, and ultimately create healthier and more sustainable cities.

The benefits from Urban Forests as NbS are many:

• Climate Resilience: Urban trees help reduce the urban heat island effect, enhance air quality, and sequester carbon, making cities more resilient to climate change.
• Biodiversity Enhancement: Urban forests serve as valuable habitats for wildlife, fostering biodiversity within the cityscape.
• Enhanced Well-Being: The presence of trees in urban areas has been linked to reduced stress, improved mental health, and increased physical activity among residents.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Green spaces contribute to the overall aesthetic and attractiveness of a city, drawing residents and visitors alike.

The CLEARING HOUSE project conducts in-depth case studies across Chinese and European cities to showcase the transformative power of urban forests, as nature-based solutions. These case studies highlight the diversity of approaches and the local impact, and we recently made a video to detail them in collaboration with the studio Onimotion:

Empowering Stakeholders Worldwide: CLEARING HOUSE’s Urban Forest Webinar Series

We are thrilled to announce a series of webinars co-organised by Metropolis and the CLEARING HOUSE project, with the support of EFUF and SUPERB, key partners of the project. These webinars are designed to empower stakeholders across Europe, China, and the world to implement Urban Forests as Nature-Based Solutions. The webinars will bring together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the vital role of urban forests and nature-based solutions in shaping the cities of the future. The four webinars are as follow:

• November 15th Webinar 1: “AN INTRODUCTION TO URBAN FOREST STRATEGIC PLANNING”
• November 17th Webinar 2: “URBAN FOREST GOVERNANCE: ACHIEVING EFFECTIVE AND COLLABORATIVE MANAGEMENT”
• November 22nd Webinar 3: “EMPOWER YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES: PARTICIPATORY URBAN FOREST DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT”
• November 24th Webinar 4: “PROTECTION AND RESTORATION: HOW TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE YOUR URBAN FOREST”

These webinars, available in both English and Mandarin with live translations, will provide valuable insights and expertise on how urban forests can transform cities, fostering a greener, more sustainable future. To learn more about the webinar topics, schedules, and secure your spot, please visit the website here.

Registration is open, and we welcome professionals, practitioners, and enthusiasts interested in urban planning, policy, and sustainable urban development to be a part of this unique opportunity to gain essential knowledge and insights for implementing and maintaining urban forests, contributing to urban sustainability, biodiversity, and well-being.

Urban Forest Celebration in Brussels

In a world where urbanisation is on the rise, nature-based solutions are here to improve urban living. By embracing the strategic potential of trees and urban forests, the CLEARING HOUSE project is on the front lines of the battle against climate change, while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity, well-being, and the aesthetics of our cities.

As CLEARING HOUSE is coming to an end, the journey is far from over, and we are thrilled to announce the final CLEARING HOUSE event in Brussels. This will be an opportunity for us to share our knowledge and help you recreate our learnings and implement them in your local context. In collaboration with the REGREEN project, we have collectively made substantial impacts on the landscapes of European and Chinese cities, advocating for urban forests as vital nature-based solutions. Together with our partners from China, we are ready to share unique experiences, insights, and innovative strategies at this hybrid event. We extend a warm invitation to all who share our vision and passion for transforming urban environments.

Please visit the website for further information, including registration options and event details. We look forward to your contribution in shaping the future of urban living, through the power of nature-based solutions!