Integrated Green Infrastructure for Forests and Trees

The Interreg Europe programme’s GIFT project invites you to the 2nd Interregional Thematic Seminar: “Integrated Green Infrastructure for Forests and Trees.” Organized by the University of Latvia, this online event will take place on Wednesday, 22 January 2025, from 10:00 to 15:15 CET, providing a platform to explore innovative approaches and good practices in green infrastructure for forests and trees.

The seminar will bring together experts, policymakers, and practitioners from Spain, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Latvia, and Croatia to share experiences and solutions. Presentations will cover a wide range of topics, starting with integrating biodiversity conservation into urban green infrastructure planning.

Attendees will learn about multifunctional woodland management practices in Spain and Sweden’s approach to biodiversity enhancement using wood mould boxes will showcase innovative techniques for supporting organisms that depend on hollow trees. Participants will also explore the Nature Value Explorer, a web-based tool from Belgium for evaluating the impacts of land use changes on ecosystem services. The Netherlands will share an inspiring project, “Trees for Everyone,” which planted 100,000 native trees to boost biodiversity, reduce CO₂, and involve communities in ecological restoration. Germany will present the MaGIC Landscapes initiative, highlighting efforts to preserve green infrastructure in Central European landscapes by engaging local communities and informing visitors about its value.

Other presentations will include Italy’s practice of using cover crops to enhance biodiversity and create ecological corridors, along with Slovenia’s LIFE ARTEMIS project, which addresses invasive alien species in forests through awareness and training. Ljubljana’s experience with integrating nature conservation into urban parks will provide lessons in creating high-quality green spaces that support biodiversity, leisure, and climate adaptation. Croatia will showcase the “City Windows to Nature” project, focusing on improving urban biodiversity and developing a multifunctional network of green infrastructure.

The seminar will conclude with a discussion session, allowing participants to reflect on these practices and exchange ideas with the speakers.

To participate, register by 17 January 2025 through the provided link. Registered attendees will receive the final agenda and access details shortly before the seminar.

We look forward to meeting you at the seminar!