Every week, we bring you the latest news in placemaking, landscape architecture, the nature-mental health link, and much more. Check back every week for new roundups and items.
With Funding Tight, Cities are Turning to Green Infrastructure
“From Seattle to Sweden, an ever-growing number of city and regional governments are using roof gardens, specially designed wetlands, and other forms of “green infrastructure†to rein in pollution from countless diffuse sources — and to save money.”
The Economics Of Environmental Conservation
“One of the central philosophies behind GGT is our belief that responsible ecotourism can not only save the world’s remaining wild spaces, but can (and should) economically benefit the people living in those often rural destinations. Few organizations embody this ideal better than The Wilderness Society, the DC-based non-profit that has been fighting to preserve America’s wilderness for more than 75 years now.”
Buildings That Heal
“A study conducted by scientist Robert Olbrich over 10 years compared patients. One-half had views of brick walls while the other half had a view of nature. The latter were able to heal faster, and their stay time was one day shorter, according to Harrison.”
Where Urban Trees Really Come From
“Trees seem to know how to make forests better than we do. According to new research from the U.S. Forest Service, an average of two-thirds of all trees in cities are the result of natural regeneration. Only one-third of trees are deliberately planted.”
Adopt a Lot?
“Baltimore City recently unveiled a streamlined Adopt-A-Lot program through which the city allows residents to apply to build a garden, park, or other community space on a vacant city-owned lot. Through the program, the city gives community gardeners and farmers a license to do certain activities on the property.”
Why You Shouldn’t Let Your Dog Pee on Trees
“But might dogs be engaged in a more clandestine, less-funny campaign of attrition, one that is harming the very health of our urban landscape?”
