When it comes to nature, many envision idyllic mountain landscapes and lush pine forests. However, for the 80% of Western populations residing in urban centers, the significance of nature within city landscapes is equally apparent. Especially with climate change affecting communities worldwide, nature becomes increasingly pivotal in supporting and safeguarding our cities, offering solutions to varied challenges such as mental health, flood resilience, and wildfire management.
According to ecological engineer and National Geographic Explorer, Dr. Nadina Galle, nature stands as our most vital infrastructure in confronting both public health and climate resilience; it just needs a little help.
Nadina’s debut book, THE NATURE OF OUR CITIES: Harnessing the Power of the Natural World to Survive a Changing Planet, offers a blend of humor and poignancy, providing a nuanced examination of urban existence in the 21st century. Exploring our disconnection from nature, the book introduces an unexpected ally—technology—that not only facilitates reconnection but also enhances health and fortifies cities against climate change impacts.
During her presentation for "Cities for Everyone," Nadina takes us on a captivating and urgent journey, showcasing how scientists and citizens worldwide are leveraging technology and the natural world to safeguard their cities—a phenomenon she terms the "Internet of Nature."
Don't miss the opportunity to pre-order THE NATURE OF OUR CITIES now at nadinagalle.com/book.
Nadina Galle, Ph.D. is a Dutch-Canadian ecological engineer, technologist, and podcaster. Her work has been featured in documentaries produced by BBC Earth and in multiple print publications, including Newsweek, ELLE, and National Geographic. The recipient of several academic and entrepreneurial awards, including a Fulbright scholarship for a fellowship at MIT’s Senseable City Lab, she was selected by Forbes’ 30 under 30 list, and recently named a National Geographic Explorer for her work on how growing cities across Latin America are plugging into the Internet of Nature. She divides her time between Amsterdam and Toronto.
