Green infrastructure (GI) is a network of nature-based alternatives to traditional engineering solutions (e.g., bioswales; rain gardens; green spaces; trees; grassy verges; vegetated roofs). GI is designed to mitigate the impact of urbanization, with many benefits to urban settlements and, if designed correctly, opportunities for biodiversity. Despite the obvious associations with ecology, however, experience from research and practice reveal that collaborative ecologists form a minority amongst other disciplines working on GI.

With its ambitious Rain City Strategy, the City of Vancouver is committed to GI, but it is unclear at this point whether biodiversity will be expressed meaningfully. This talk explores the potential for ecological GI in Vancouver and region. Using examples of best practices from other cities, particular attention is given to plant selection and native pollinators, especially bees, and the wider food web.

Presented by Dr. Christine Thuring, Board member of the Native Bee Society of BC.

This presentation will be aired via the Zoom videoconferencing. See https://naturevancouver.ca/zoom-videoconference-instructions/

On Monday June 15th Nature Vancouver members will receive the Zoom link in the weekly eNews. To join click on that link after 7pm. Email Denis denis@NatureVancouver.ca if you need help. Non-members are welcome.

To socialize before 7:30 we encourage you to turn on your microphone and camera; turn them both off at 7:30. In the Q&A after the talk, please type in your questions using the “chat” sidebar.