When people think of cities, they often picture a sprawling network of skyscrapers, busy streets, and endless concrete. But amidst the urban jungle, there’s a growing movement to bring nature back into our neighborhoods. Restoring biodiversity in cities isn’t just about planting a few trees or flowers—it’s about creating habitats where wildlife can thrive and reconnecting urban dwellers with the natural world. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that turn lifeless concrete into vibrant ecosystems, proving that cities can be havens for both people and wildlife.
Why Urban Biodiversity Matters
Cities may seem like unlikely places for wildlife, but they play a critical role in supporting biodiversity. Urban areas are often home to a surprising array of species, from birds and insects to small mammals and amphibians. However, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change have pushed many species to the brink, even within our city limits.
Restoring biodiversity in urban settings isn’t just good for the environment—it benefits people too. Green spaces improve air and water quality, regulate temperatures, and even boost mental health. Studies have shown that access to nature can reduce stress, improve focus, and foster a sense of community. Biodiversity isn’t a luxury for cities—it’s a necessity.
The Power of Native Plants
When it comes to restoring urban ecosystems, native plants are the unsung heroes. Unlike exotic species, native plants have evolved alongside local wildlife, creating a symbiotic relationship. They provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for pollinators, birds, and other animals that struggle to adapt to non-native plants.
For example, milkweed—a plant native to the northeastern United States—is vital for monarch butterflies. Without milkweed, monarch populations plummet, affecting the entire food web. Similarly, oak trees support hundreds of species of insects and birds, making them a cornerstone of urban biodiversity.
In my work, I prioritize native plants in all my designs. They’re resilient, require less maintenance, and foster ecosystems that are self-sustaining. Partnering with local nurseries to source native plants has been a game-changer. These collaborations ensure we’re using the right plants for the right spaces, creating landscapes that thrive for years to come.
Creating Habitats in Unlikely Places
Urban environments often lack traditional green spaces, but that doesn’t mean we’re out of options. Restoring biodiversity requires creativity, and I’ve found ways to turn rooftops, vacant lots, and even sidewalks into thriving habitats.
One of my favorite projects was transforming a series of abandoned lots into pocket parks in Brooklyn. By working with community groups, we turned these forgotten spaces into lush oases filled with native plants, pollinator gardens, and bird-friendly shrubs. Today, these parks are buzzing with life—and not just the human kind.
Another exciting initiative involved designing NYC’s first carbon-neutral rooftop garden. Rooftops are often overlooked as potential habitats, but they’re a perfect canvas for green design. By integrating native grasses, wildflowers, and even small trees, we created a space that supports pollinators and birds while insulating the building below.
Engaging the Community
Restoring biodiversity isn’t something any of us can do alone. It requires a community effort, and one of the most rewarding parts of my job is working with local residents, schools, and organizations to make it happen.
In one project, we partnered with a Brooklyn-based nonprofit to host workshops on the importance of native plants. These sessions taught residents how to identify invasive species, choose the right native plants for their gardens, and even build habitats for bees and butterflies. Seeing people take ownership of their green spaces is incredibly inspiring—it shows how much impact individuals can have when they’re equipped with the right knowledge.
Engaging schools is another priority. Children are natural stewards of the environment, and involving them in planting days or citizen science projects fosters a lifelong appreciation for nature. I’ve seen kids light up as they spot their first monarch butterfly or identify a bird they helped attract. That’s the kind of change that sticks.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Restoring biodiversity in cities isn’t without its challenges. Limited space, budget constraints, and competing priorities often make it difficult to implement large-scale projects. But I’ve learned that small steps can lead to big impacts.
A single pollinator garden might not seem like much, but when multiplied across a city, these small habitats create vital corridors that wildlife can use to travel and thrive. Similarly, replacing just a portion of traditional turf grass with native plants can dramatically improve an area’s ecological health.
Another lesson is the importance of education and advocacy. Many people don’t realize the impact their choices—like the plants they use in their yards—have on biodiversity. By raising awareness, we can shift mindsets and build momentum for greener cities.
A Vision for the Future
My guiding principle has always been, “Every green space is a chance to breathe new life into the city.” Restoring biodiversity in urban areas isn’t just about adding greenery—it’s about creating spaces that support life, enhance resilience, and connect people to the natural world.
As I look to the future, I’m hopeful. Cities around the world are embracing green infrastructure, native plants, and innovative designs that prioritize biodiversity. From Copenhagen to Brooklyn, urban landscapes are transforming, proving that humans and nature can coexist harmoniously.
My goal is to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, to turn more concrete into canopy, and to inspire others to join this movement. Together, we can create cities that aren’t just livable, but truly alive.