Urban Nature Forum week events introduce local nature sites and activities

The events during the Urban Nature Forum week bring nature closer to the everyday lives of city residents, strengthening their connection to it. Topics of discussion will include environmental education, the connection between nature and human well-being, biodiversity and its enhancement, as well as sustainable food production.

The City of Tampere, in collaboration with 13 other organisations, is hosting events throughout the city. These include a visit to learn about the activities of Nature School Korento, a walk exploring the connection to nature around the former Nekala landfill site, a forest-themed workshop in Juupajoki, and a guided tour of the Finlayson’s factory garden. Most of the Urban Nature Forum week events are open to everyone and free of charge, though some require registration.

– Urban food has an impact on the environment and nature around us. In the future, a large part of our food can be produced in the cities. At the Blokgarden's urban farming culture centre, city residents can learn how to grow food at home or in the heart of the city, bringing food production even closer to the people, than traditional local food, explains Tuomas Ilander from Blokgarden.

Diverse urban nature provides a breather from everyday life 

It has been found that nature enhances people’s overall health and calms the mind. Even a short time spent in nearby nature has a positive effect on well-being. Events organised by the Tampere Evangelical Lutheran Parish will introduce participants to the diverse nature of Kalevankangas cemetery and baby forest bathing activities.

– You can think of nature as a supportive companion to humans. Nature calms and reduces stress hormones, and in nature, we are accepted as we are. The ‘Park bath’ event for babies and older ones invites people of all ages to pause and experience the park’s nature – how it looks, feels, and smells, says Anne Ryyppö-Prami, the head of Early Childhood Education at Harju Parish.

During Urban Nature Forum week, the City of Tampere will organise its own tours on the Näsi Park Bridge, as well as in the restored Vihioja and pike wetland areas. Tampere is committed to promoting biodiversity as part of the LUMO program. The first Urban Nature Forum, held on September 11th, will bring together municipal, business, and NGO leaders and experts to tackle the biodiversity loss.