Interregional Seminar: Green Infrastructure & Biodiversity
The GIFT project’s 1st Interregional Thematic Seminar, held online on January 25, 2024, presented a diverse range of insights and initiatives under the theme “Integrated Green Infrastructure and Biodiversity Conservation”. Organized by the University of Latvia, the seminar served as a platform for experts and practitioners from across Europe to share knowledge and good practices. The seminar was attended by 75 participants from European countries such as Spain, Sweden, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Latvia and Croatia.
The seminar commenced with a warm welcome and introduction by Zane Zeibote and Janis Zvirgzdins from the University of Latvia, followed by the keynote speech from Dainis Ruņģis from the Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava”, who emphasized the critical role of genetic diversity in forests, nature, and biodiversity conservation. His presentation illuminated the intricate relationships between genetic diversity, ecosystem resilience, and the adaptability of various species.
From Ames Town Council, Galicia, Spain, a novel approach to forest fire prevention was introduced. The initiative focused on planting deciduous trees in secondary prevention and defense strips, aiming to improve biodiversity and mitigate the impact of forest fires. This proactive strategy highlighted the importance of local cooperation and the adaptive management of landscapes to reduce fire risks. Anna Stemström from the County Administration of Västra Götaland, Sweden, discussed an innovative technique called “veteranization” of young trees, aimed at enhancing biodiversity and supporting endangered species. This method showcased a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, ensuring the continuity of habitats for future generations.
Karolien Horckmans brought to the forefront the Flemish Action Program for Ecological Defragmentation, highlighting an advanced digital information and decision-making system that supports ecological connectivity and biodiversity conservation. The seminar also featured a presentation by Haryt Dijkman from the Province of Fryslan, who discussed the Dutch National Subsidy Scheme for nature conservation and its role in fostering dialogue for the development of nature and biodiversity in the region.
The Region of Leipzig (Prof. Dr. Sylke Nillsen and Dr. Maria Vlacic) presented the “Lebendige Luppe” project, focusing on the revitalization of rivers and riparian landscapes in the Elster-Luppe-Floodplain. This initiative showcased the significance of water bodies and their adjacent lands in maintaining ecological balance and supporting diverse life forms. Marco Affronte from the Province of Rimini delved into the revalorization of municipal public green infrastructure, emphasizing the role of urban green spaces in enhancing biodiversity and providing ecological benefits within city environments.
The Slovenian Forestry Institute, represented by Tjaša Baloh, introduced a multifunctional forest management planning system, illustrating the integration of various forest functions and services to achieve sustainable management and conservation goals. Davorka Maljković from Zoo Zagreb (Croatia) shared insights into the “Modernization of Zoo Zagreb Phase I”, highlighting the role of zoological gardens in conservation, education, and recreation, and their contribution to biodiversity conservation efforts.
The final presentation was delivered by Mateja Korošec from the Business Support Centre Kranj, Slovenia, discussing the management of city forests in the City Community of Celje. This session underlined the importance of urban forestry in enhancing the quality of life for city dwellers and contributing to urban biodiversity. During the breaks, the presentations were supplemented with videos that highlighted green infrastructure and biodiversity conservation-related aspects in Latvia.
The event concluded with reflections by Encarnación Nieto Zas from the Instituto de Estudos do Territorio, Spain, marking the end of a fruitful exchange of knowledge and practices aimed at fostering a sustainable interaction between humans and nature through integrated green infrastructure and biodiversity conservation. The GIFT project continues to be a platform for European collaboration, aiming to integrate green infrastructure into policy planning across various sectors, thereby reinforcing the commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
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