Nature in the city | Bee Hotel

Nowhere else in Europe are open space and nature under as much pressure as in Flanders. How do we make cities and villages resilient to the effects of climate change? Wet winters, severe thunderstorms, extreme drought and heat waves; Climate change is palpable, you notice it everywhere. Extreme weather phenomena will become increasingly intense in the future.

A natural design can result in climate gains. Both for carbon capture, water infiltration and the reduction of heat days. We all have a great responsibility and can prepare ourselves by designing gardens and small residual spaces more naturally. Think of greenery on roofs and against facades, more trees instead of pavement. Just a few measures that allow rainwater to infiltrate better and that we can catch our breath under the canopy on a hot summer day.

Allowing nature on a very small (micro) scale softens the hard character of stone and buildings. A green stepping stone, a bird whistling, a butterfly fluttering around your head, these are little things that give your day just a little more color. Peek behind the hedge and see how a wild corner gets space here, without it looking unkempt.

Take a good look around during this bike tour and look for inspiring examples. Who knows, maybe you too will commit to contribute and you will soon be the proud owner of:

- green façade and/or a sidewalk garden

- street and or square trees

- water-permeable pavement

- wild corner (spontaneous development)

- bee hotel, hedgehog house or a nectar pub for butterflies

Natuuracademie