The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) launches the city based ‘Living Green’ Awards.
AIPH strongly believes that the correct use of plants and the landscape in cities plays a critical role in the fight against climate change and all its associated impacts. According to AIPH it is proven that greener cities make healthier citizens and stimulate social and economic development.
The AIPH World Green City Awards celebrate the inclusion of plant life and nature into city design, planning and function and applaud the leaders of this growing movement.
Bernard Oosterom, President, AIPH says, “It is imperative that we embrace a nature-orientated approach to city design and operation. Through the AIPH World Green City Awards, we promote the essential role of plants in creating vibrant urban areas in which people and businesses can thrive. We are calling on city authorities all over the world to showcase what they have done and how they have used ‘Living Green’ to make their cities better for all residents, more sustainable, and more resilient.”
‘Nature can’t just be an afterthought’
Entries are invited from city governments and relevant organisations around the world that promote and support ‘Living Green’ in their plans. Cities will be celebrated through six categories: Health and wellbeing, Climate change, Economic recovery and inclusive growth, Biodiversity, Water and Social cohesion.
Supporting the Awards, Tim Beatley of Biophilic Cities says: “The importance of nature in our urban lives has never been clearer. Nature can’t just be an afterthought. It must be the central design and planning principle. We need to recognise and celebrate those cities around the world that are investing in nature and understand and see nature as an essential ingredient in happy, healthy, and meaningful lives.”
