In June 2024, the euPOLIS project hosted an Expert Capacity Building Training in Łódź, Poland, focusing on integrating nature-based solutions (NBS) and the challenges of citizen participation.

This event brought together various stakeholders to explore effective NBS selection tools and strategies for enhancing citizen engagement in urban planning.


Nature-Based Solutions and Citizen Participation

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are increasingly recognized as vital in addressing urban challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and urban heat islands. The euPOLIS project emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate NBS that align with local contexts and community needs. During the training, participants discussed various NBS selection tools, which help cities evaluate potential solutions based on ecological, social, and economic criteria. These tools aim to facilitate informed decision-making by providing data-driven insights into the effectiveness of different NBS options. However, implementing NBS effectively is not solely a technical challenge; it also involves navigating complex social dynamics. Citizen participation is crucial for ensuring that NBS initiatives reflect the values and needs of local communities. Yet, as highlighted during discussions at the training, engaging citizens can be fraught with challenges. Many participatory processes often suffer from tokenism, where citizen input is solicited but not genuinely considered in decision-making. To foster authentic engagement, it is essential to create inclusive platforms that encourage diverse voices to contribute meaningfully. This involves addressing barriers such as mistrust in governmental processes and ensuring that participatory mechanisms are transparent and accessible. The training underscored the need for a shift from traditional top-down approaches to more collaborative governance models that empower citizens.


A Stroll Through Łagiewnicki Forest

Adding a vibrant touch to the training was a guided stroll through the Arturówek nature reserve (on its territory there are lakes fed by the waters of the Bzura River) – located within the picturesque Łagiewnicki Forest (Europe’s largest 1,200-hectare compact forest complex within the city).. This lush green space served as a living laboratory for participants to observe firsthand the benefits of urban forestry and NBS in action. As they walked through the forest’s winding paths, discussions flourished about how such natural environments can enhance urban resilience while fostering community well-being. Participants reflected on how experiences in natural settings can deepen their understanding of ecological processes and inspire innovative ideas for integrating NBS into urban landscapes. The forest not only provided a backdrop for learning but also highlighted the intrinsic value of green spaces in promoting social cohesion and environmental stewardship.


Conclusion

The euPOLIS Expert Capacity Building Training in Łódź successfully brought together experts to explore critical aspects of NBS selection tools and citizen participation challenges. By emphasizing collaborative approaches and leveraging local natural assets like Łagiewnicki Forest, the project aims to enhance urban sustainability efforts across Europe. Moving forward, it will be crucial for cities to adopt inclusive practices that genuinely engage citizens in shaping their environments, ensuring that nature-based solutions are both effective and reflective of community aspirations.

Aleksandra Malušev & Aleksandra Trzcińska