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Learn more about our research categoriesThe mighty benefits of 'tiny forests'
Climate Change, Energy & Pollution Biodiversity Parks & Public Space Year in Review
The concept of ‘tiny forests’ originated in Japan by botanist Akira Miyawaki, where residents closely plant trees in vacant lots, neglected parks and patches of land along busy roads. The closeness of the trees and shrubs result in quick growth as they are fighting for light. As such, research suggests …
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Biodiversity and our brains: how ecology and mental health go together in our cities
Health Biodiversity
Natural habitats and biodiversity are decreasing in cities. Urban planners and designers play a role in increasing opportunities for the public to interact with nature, thereby improving urban mental health. Scientific research indicates that exposure to nature and biodiversity benefits mental well-being. Both large green corridors and small patches of …
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Urban Spaces for an Overheated Planet: 12 Projects that tackle this Global Challenge
Climate Change, Energy & Pollution Parks & Public Space
This article provides 12 urban projects that exemplify public spaces designed to promote resilience to and mitigate the effects of climate change’s elevated temperatures. These spaces include natural materials, water elements, vegetated surfaces, and ample of shaded areas to improve cities’ quality of life. The United Nations predicts that without …
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Salk Institute scientists conducted an experiment that suggests DNA in a mouse’s adult brain can be altered depending on the type of maternal care it experienced in its early life. The scientists first observed the natural differences in maternal care between female mice and their offspring, then examined the DNA …
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Alberta to launch 'unprecedented' water-sharing negotiations Thursday amid drought fears
Climate Change, Energy & Pollution Economic Development Smart Cities
Starting February 1, 2024, the provincial government of Alberta will begin negotiations with major water license holders for the Red Deer River, Bow River and Old Man River basins amid concerns over water shortages for the first time since 2001. This will be the largest water-sharing negotiation Alberta has ever …
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A Three-Bed, Two-Bath, One Open Street Apartment
Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Engagement Parks & Public Space
34th Avenue in the Jackson Heights neighbourhood transformed into a popular and attractive space with a pedestrian plaza and wide bike lanes as part of New York City’s Open Streets program. Beginning in April 2020, the City designated certain streets as car-free spaces, including 34th Avenue, to provide the public …
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The Barcelona Model: Public Space as a Synonym for Urban Adaptation
Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Engagement Parks & Public Space Smart Cities
The “Barcelona Model '' is a strategy that reclaims and transforms public streets and squares into spaces of comfort that allow for a variety of uses and integrate nature into a dense and urbanized city. In compact cities that have a lot of paved areas, like Barcelona, building large new …
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