When you think of biodiversity, you may not think of a city. However, cities hold a surprising amount of potential to support wildlife (visit the “Definition” link to learn more), and to in turn improve human residents’ quality of life. A thriving urban ecosystem can contribute to cleaner air and water, lower temperatures during heat waves, and improved mental health for city residents. This alignment offers a hopeful vision: one where cities don’t just support humans, but enable all of nature to thrive.

Cities around the world are supporting natural biodiversity by integrating wildlife-friendly features. These efforts show that, with thoughtful design and strategic investment, cities can play a significant role in the fight against the biodiversity crisis. Here are some examples of such initiatives:

• Green Roofs and Living Walls: Covering buildings with vegetation not only cools structures and reduces runoff, but can also provide food and shelter for pollinators and birds.
• Native Landscaping: Native plants support local wildlife far better than non-native species. Learn more about the benefits of native landscaping here.
• Vacant Lot Conversions: Any space can become a green space with the right vision! Vacant lots, rooftops, and roadside medians can all be transformed into “pocket parks” which provide habitat for wildlife and a beautiful space for humans.
• Wildlife Corridors: Connecting green spaces with a “wildlife corridor” helps animals move safely through cities. Learn more about wildlife corridors and similar programs here.

Building biodiverse cities isn’t just a job for government officials and urban planners — all members of a community can contribute to supporting local wildlife. Consider planting a pollinator-friendly garden in your own yard or balcony, supporting a local green infrastructure initiative, or advocating for tree-lined streets. Don’t forget that the more community members involved, the stronger your effort will be! Look for opportunities to build relationships with like-minded individuals, and be sure to visit the “Action” link below to learn more about the National Wildlife Federation’s Community Wildlife Habitat initiative, which offers helpful resources, education, and certification to neighborhoods in their efforts to support native species.