Biodiversity in Place: A framework to improve urban biodiversity in NSW
- Publisher:
- NSW Government Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
- Publication Type:
- Report
- Citation:
- 2024
- Issue Date:
- 2024-05-22
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In a time of ecological and biodiversity crisis, our urban
green spaces must be created and cared for in ways that allow them to support global efforts to restore ecosystems.
Biodiversity in Place is a call to action to support nature recovery and enhance biodiversity. We must meet the growing demand for housing. But we must also continue
‘greening’ our cities, bringing the benefits of this and an enhanced biodiversity to our communities.
Our cities should be buzzing with both people and pollinators Historically, urban environments have posed a threat to biodiversity and natural ecosystems. But they can – and must – also be part of the solution. Our cities play an important role in supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna, while providing critical habitat for endangered species. For 39 threatened species, urban areas in Australia are the last remaining places where they exist. As we plan for more housing, there is an urgent need to address the issue of biodiversity loss.
We must improve the design and construction of new developments as well as retrofitting existing developments.
Through Biodiversity in Place, Government Architect NSW advocates for nature-positive approaches to the urban environment by introducing ecology-rich planting to verges, backyards, balconies, public spaces, rooftops
and critical infrastructure such as roads, railways and creek corridors.
Biodiversity in Place explains how communities, policymakers and industry can assist in reshaping nature-positive urban environments to reconnect people with larger natural systems. This will create cooler places, provide wildlife habitat and food, support biodiversity, improve mental health and beautify our living spaces. Supporting biodiversity represents a significant opportunity to connect with Country and foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing between
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities to ensure sustainable and resilient outcomes.
Biodiversity in Place identifies typologies and tools that provide a helping hand, enabling different agencies to step up and address the issue of biodiversity loss. It will support agencies already on the journey and help bring along those not yet involved. Everyone has a part to play.
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