Innovations in Urban Forestry Research: The European Experience

Summary

Introduction: Urban Forestry Research in Europe
Since the late 1990s, the urban forestry research community in Europe has expanded and a series of innovative research projects have been undertaken. This symposium will offer an overview of some of the latest developments in European urban forestry research. Questions to be discussed include: What have been the major research themes and results in Europe during the past decade? Where are the present research frontiers? What has been the role of collaboration between science, policy, and practice? Which specific projects are of special interest to the NorthAmerican and global urban forestry community?

The moderated symposium will comprise an introduction by the chair, followed by brief presentations by European experts on a series of research themes. These will include: 1) Urban forestry governance and policies, including the role of urban forestry in developing green infrastructure and aspects of public involvement; 2) Urban forest benefits and their assessment, with particular attention for the socio-cultural benefits of urban forests, e.g. in promoting human health and wellbeing; 3) Urban forest design and management, from tree care to urban silviculture. All presenters will subsequently participate in a moderated panel debate in which the audience has the opportunity to ask questions.


Trees and People: Advances in Research
This presentation presents an overview of current European research on the relationships between people and trees. Research to be covered includes studies on 1) the social and cultural values and roles of urban trees, 2) the impacts of urban trees and forests on human health and wellbeing, and 3) socially-inclusive planning and management approaches. This overview will be illustrated by examples of innovative research projects from across Europe for each of the three themes. Strengths and weaknesses of the current knowledge base will be assessed, as will be Europe’s contributions to global research and practice.