EFUF2025 - book of Abstracts - Urban Forests for Resilient and Healthy Cities
Authors/Creators
- 1. Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences
- 2. Grün Stadt Zürich
- 3. European Forest Institute
- 4. European Forum on Urban Forestry
- 5. Freelance forester
Description
Cities around the world are increasingly challenged by the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, more frequent heatwaves and prolonged droughts demand effective and sustainable solutions to protect urban quality of life and strengthen of ecological resilience. In this context, the urban forest plays a vital role.
Urban forests - from individual street trees to expansive forests within or around cities – are much more than just design elements in urban spaces. They offer shade, cool the air air through evaporation, filter pollutants, support biodiversity by providing habitat for countless species and contribute significantly to a healthier urban microclimate. Their benefits for both the environment and public health are indispensable.
Yet in densely built cities, preserving and expanding the urban tree canopy is challenging. Limited space, competing land uses, underground infrastructure, and shifting climatic conditions all present significant obstacles to planting and maintenance. That´s why it´s more important than ever to integrate urban forest into city planning through the lens of urban forestry – guided by innovative strategies, clear objectives, actionable plans, and, above all, a strong commitment to knowledge sharing.
A resilient, diverse, and thriving urban forest doesn´t happen by chance. It requires thoughtful planning, collaboration between the public sector, private landowners, researchers and civil society, and a shared recognition of nature as an essential urban asset. Only when all stakeholders take responsibility can we succeed in shaping cities that are resilient, liveable, healthy and sustainable.
The European Forum on Urban Forestry serves as a platform to advance these shared goals. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the value of urban forests, explore new pathways for action, and inspire concrete steps towards greener, healthier, resilient and sustainable cities.
We are very happy to welcome you to the European Forum on Urban Forestry in Zurich and wish you fantastic days and inspiring conversations paired with beautiful and fun moments within the Urban Forestry family.