The URBES project is offering two capacity building events at the Gustav Stresemann Institute in Bonn (Germany) on 27 and 28 May. A one day workshop on ecosystem modeling and urban resilience will be followed by the chance to participate in discussions on ecosystem services at Open European Day. Attendance is free of charge but participants are required to register on the URBES website.

URBES is a research project working to bridge the gap between urbanisation, biodiversity and ecosystem services through a network of research centres in Europe and the USA. URBES representatives will be available at both sessions to provide advice on balancing human needs and the natural environment. The workshops are primarily aimed at public officials, but anyone with an interest in biodiversity is welcome to attend.

On the first day, researchers will present tools and methods for modeling urban ecosystems in resilience assessment, and discuss how this can support decision-making. Open European Day, which takes place prior to Resilient Cities 2014, will provide practical support to local officials in developing adaptation plans which are suitable for their city or regions’ specific needs and challenges.

For more information, click here.