Urban selfies and climate resistance: How became the first “national garden city” for the European Union

Creative Dutch City and Parts Bridal I have become official first “European Union City”. She was officially appointed by the National Park City Foundation in May, Braida in LondonAdlaida and Chattanooga As a fourth member of the growing world movement to make urban areas more green, healthy and more related to nature.
This new case recognizes more than a contract of work Restore wetlandsTo reveal its streets and involve the population in this process. It also involves a change in the way in which European cities are redefined The relationship with nature.
What is the “National Park City”?
The initiative was launched in the UK in 2019 to promote urban life Associated with nature and fair environment. Cities do not need to meet the traditional standards of national gardens. Instead, they must show a Adherence to sustainabilityBiological diversity and general access to green spaces.
Braida’s nomination caught the attention of the residents of their strong environmental leadership, Citizen commitment And one Urban planning that places nature in its center.
“I liked to explore Breda and know everything they do for their city Grenst, the most healthy and most wildFrom the restoration of a river crossing the city center to the innovative community growth community programs, the small forests established by schools, and the respected gardens of wildlife and Urban public artDaniel Raven Silison, founder of the National Park City Foundation, says.
“I am sure that the residents of Braida of all ages and backgrounds will inspire them to become.”The city of the National Garden They will want to explore how they can be part of their growth and history. “Breda is now the fourth city that gets the” National Park City “, joining London, Delida, and recently, Chatanuja. Nine other cities are working to obtain.
What did Braid to get the title?
It was a bridal giving priority to Nature -based solutionsFrom the conversion of the sidewalks into biological urban gardens to replace the concrete tiles by The grass, Barteris and trees.
Nowadays, 60 % of Breda consists of Green spacesFrom historical forests such as mastbos, One of the oldest in the Netherlandsand Even natural reserves, gardens and toilets. By 2030, local leaders want to make it one of the richest cities in nature in Europe. But this situation also reflects The commitment of its residents.
Gardens on the roof and small forests in schools
The city has become a leader in environmental design, using nature -based solutions to improve stability and Climate risk management. The residents actively participated in this process, often admitting their streets, and installing them Ceiling And the development of green squares in schools, according to Berida Stadium in Ain Park, a basic movement that helped direct the city’s efforts to become the “Park National City”.
“This title is a recognition of many population, businessmen and organizations committed to Ecology Braid “A source of inspiration to continue doing this,” says Burndricht, the head of the Pred Stadium in Ain Park. It is an incentive for more people to be excited The idea of starting the environment. It should not always be great. A simple garden is a good contribution. “
Why is it important for European cities
Throughout the European Union, cities take more and more steps in the same direction of Breda. from Areas without cars Paris To protection Against the floods of CopenhagenLocal leaders respond to climate change and the decline in biological diversity with initiatives that seek to make urban settlements the most green and formulation Prepare for the future.
For example, Access to green spaces Back significantlyHealth -related health risksBenefit embodied by Braid now Other European cities They can try to simulate.
London and Bred Be more green, healthy, cooler and more just“, As Raven-Lellison says.” City ‘City National Park helps to show the way, form strong relationships, exchange optimism, ideas, knowledge and energy. “