Biodiversity in Place: New framework unveiled to boost urban green spaces
Today on International Day for Biological Diversity, we are proud to have collaborated with Government Architect NSW on Biodiversity in Place, a groundbreaking new framework aimed at enhancing urban biodiversity across the state of New South Wales, Australia.
In a time of ecological and biodiversity crisis, urban green spaces must be created and cared for in ways that allow them to support global efforts to restore ecosystems and provide stepping stones for fauna. That’s why we have been working with Government Architect NSW to develop a framework to improve urban biodiversity across the state.
Biodiversity in Place reminds us that our city and suburban streets should be buzzing with both people and pollinators, and yet, as suburbs become more built up, the absence of birds, bees and butterflies becomes increasingly pronounced. Our cities play an important role in supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna, while providing critical habitat for endangered species. Indeed, for 39 threatened species, urban areas in Australia are the last remaining places where they exist.
This framework outlines how communities, policymakers and industry can assist in reshaping nature-positive urban environments to reconnect people with larger natural systems.
Through the introduction of six key principles, Biodiversity in Place advocates for nature-positive approaches to the urban environment through ecology-rich planting to verges, backyards, balconies, public spaces, rooftops and critical infrastructure such as roads, railways and creek corridors.
“Hassell’s involvement in this government-led initiative presents a unique opportunity to shape policies and decisions on a statewide scale, which we hope will help advance our shared goal of improving urban biodiversity outcomes,” said Jon Hazelwood, Principal and co-author of the framework.
“The Biodiversity in Place framework is just one example of our long-term commitment to regenerative design; restoring balance in our systems and creating places where people and nature thrive together.”
— Jon Hazelwood, Principal and co-author of the framework.
The framework invites everyone — from communities and industry to local councils and government agencies — to explore how they can instil an ecological agenda into future development that takes place in urban spaces across NSW. If you’d like to know how you can integrate these recommendations into upcoming projects, please get in touch.