Why is biodiversity also important in the city?

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The biodiversity represents a fundamental pillar for the functioning of ecosystems, including urban ones, where concrete and infrastructure predominate. Green spaces rich in plants, trees and shrubs not only enhance the aesthetics of the city, but also perform essential functions for the collective well-being. Vegetation, for example, acts as a natural filter, capturing fine dust, carbon dioxide and other air pollutants, thus improving air quality. In addition, it helps mitigate the so-called "heat island effect", a phenomenon that causes higher temperatures in urban areas than in surrounding areas. This translates into direct benefits for human health, as proven by some scientific studies. Promoting biodiversity in cities means creating more liveable and resilient spaces that benefit both peopl

A recent study conducted by the Technical University of Munich (TUM), published in Nature Cities, analysed 103 squares in the city of Munich, Germany, to understand what factors influence urban biodiversity (flora and fauna). The squares were classified according to the degree of urbanisation: from almost completely built-up areas, such as the central Marienplatz, to squares surrounded by green spaces, such as Pfrontener Platz. The results showed a significant contrast: in highly urbanised squares, such as Marienplatz, just 20 species were identified, including only one species of bird, the pigeon, and a few varieties of mosses and insects. In contrast, Pfrontener Platz, characterised by the presence of trees, bushes and meadows, was home to 156 species, including 21 bird species. The study shows that plant diversity has a positive impact on the presence of animal and plant species.

The research emphasised how rich and diverse habitats foster not only the survival of species, but also their interaction. Meadows, bushes and trees attract a greater variety of species and, when combined, create synergistic environments that support fundamental ecological cycles. For example, insects such as bees and butterflies find meadows a source of nourishment, while trees and shrubs provide shelter for birds and small mammals. The distribution of species also varies according to environmental characteristics: central areas, which are warmer and brighter, attract species that tolerate these conditions, while the periphery, with cooler climates and less light pollution, is home to more biodiversity.

The study suggests simple but effective solutions for integrating biodiversity into urban design. Small interventions, such as planting flower meadows, planting native plants and creating diverse habitats, can have a big impact. Trees and shrubs, as we have seen, play a key role in providing food and shelter for different species. In addition, choosing not to regularly mow certain green areas allows insects to reproduce and wild plants to thrive, creating more 'biodiverse' environments. According to researchers, these actions improve biodiversity and, at the same time, bring direct benefits to humans. Indeed, green spaces offer opportunities to connect with nature, contributing to improved psychological and physical well-being.

Using a technological and innovative approach can improve the management of cities, especially in terms of environmental, climate and biodiversity risk prevention. 3Bee's XNatura Platform was created precisely with the aim of supporting the identification of urban areas most at risk and helping in the planning of interventions. In climate risk assessment, the platform monitors temperature and precipitation trends over time and includes parameters such as the MSA Climate Change (Mean Species Abundance Climate Change) that assesses the impact of climate change on urban biodiversity. This makes it possible to identify areas subject to increased climate stress and to plan targeted interventions to strengthen the resilience of local ecosystems, promoting the conservation and restoration of natural habitats, which are fundamental to the maintenance of urban biodiversity