By Michael Casey
As cities face rising environmental pressures, the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA)’s draft Practice Note 15 offers a timely framework to formally recognise green infrastructure as a core asset class, integrating nature into the heart of urban planning, financial strategy, and infrastructure resilience.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Zoe Cwojdzinski
Plants have proven countless benefits over centuries for human health and wellbeing, but a University of Technology Sydney collaboration highlights their impact as urban temperatures continue to climb.
Our cities are getting hotter. More than half the world’s population now lives in urban areas, a number expected to climb to 70 per cent by 20501[GS1] .… Continue reading
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Young Botanists label their own seed packets to begin their own seed collections at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (Image: RBGV)
Megan Hirst and Claire Mosley
Science, education and art can be integrated in numerous ways, and this has been demonstrated often with reference to teaching methods, curriculum, and school-based projects. Applying science and art to teaching requires a positive, supportive environment that assists schools by developing a rich learning experience as well as personalising a student’s experience through meaningful and engaging content. The… Continue reading
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Queensland Bottle Tree taking pride of place in the newly renovated Arid Garden (Image: Michael Elgey)
By Michael Elgey
The genus Brachychiton, part of the Malvaceae family, comprises around 30 species which are endemic to Australia and one species native to Papua New Guinea. These trees have become horticultural icons, admired for their distinctive forms, adaptability, and spectacular seasonal displays.… Continue reading
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“Grow Your Own” garden beds, such as this Smoothie bed, help visitors connect with where their food comes from with everyday plants they can grow at home (Image: Greg Meylan)
By Angela Anstis and Barbara Wheeler
Encourage. Hook. Seize. Influence. Encouraging or inspiring people to see plants, hooking them in, seizing their attention longer than just ‘click bait’, and influencing them to act beyond the garden gate is at the heart of most botanic gardens worldwide.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Chris Philpot
With Australian consumers becoming more aware of the environmental and ethical impacts of the products they buy, many manufacturers are keen to tap into this sentiment which is influencing buying decisions. There are dozens of eco, ethical and sustainable labels on the market, and shoppers can find it confusing.… Continue reading
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A new project in Utrecht Netherlands. This façade and green roof project underwent stringent planning with the local fire regulators before approval (images supplied by Michael Casey)
The role green roofs, walls, and facades play in fire-resilient cities
By Michael Casey
As climate change intensifies, bushfires are becoming more frequent and severe, posing significant threats to homes, communities, and ecosystems in fire-prone areas worldwide. The recent fires throughout Los Angeles are an example of how ferocious these fires can be both in a built-up urban area, and in the buildings and houses located in the more naturalised areas surrounded by trees and plant life.… Continue reading
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A short 20-minute visit to a green space can significantly reduce stress levels, particularly in inner-city business districts (Image: Karen Smith)
By Michael Casey
As another year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the past twelve months and the unrelenting pressures of urban life which I’m sure we all have experienced. The toll on mental health is undeniable, yet a simple remedy lies in green spaces.… Continue reading
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AIPH councillors with the winners – Living Green for Urban Infrastructure and Liveability. Baia Mare in Romania showcased using plants and urban greening methods to clean up one of the world’s most polluted mine sites in the heart of a bustling town
By Michael Casey
Honouring cities that lead the way in urban greening: The AIPH World Green Cities Awards celebrate innovation, biodiversity, and sustainable urban development.
The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) is a global organisation dedicated to promoting the horticulture industry and its role in improving environmental sustainability.… Continue reading
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Professor Lili Licka discussing “Public green space for all” to a full room of urban greening professionals
By Michael Casey
At the Future Green City World Congress, experts explored how urban greening enhances health, sustainability, and resilience while addressing the key challenges of designing modern cities.
This year’s Future Green City World Congress took place in Utrecht, Netherlands, and exceeded expectations with its vibrant atmosphere, engaging people, and inspiring urban greening projects.… Continue reading
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