Biodiversity – our lifeline was the theme of Green Week 2010, which ran from 1-4 June in Brussels (Belgium). ICLEI grabbed the opportunity to promote the organisation’s biodiversity activities with both a session and an exhibition stand.

More than 100 people attended the session, Urban Nature: Local Solutions to Global Challenges, proving that the subject is more topical than ever. ICLEI's biodiversity expert, Andre Mader, showcased the organisation’s strategies and tools to support the crucial role of local governments in biodiversity management. Johan van Zoest from the Local Action for Biodiversity (LAB) Pioneer city of Amsterdam, emphasised the importance of communication, education and public awareness (CEPA).

Machteld Gryseels from the Brussels Capital Region, a new member of the LAB New Pioneers WorkNet, was also present, and pointed out the need for a water strategy to support biodiversity in cities. ICLEI aims to continue to support the biodiversity agenda in European cities, and is offering project development and implementation support services to its members in areas relevant to the European Commission funding initiative Life+.

For more information, contact johanna.basler(at)iclei.org.