ABSTRACT
Achieving truly sustainable cities is one of the great global challenges of the twenty-first century. A compelling body of science that has emerged in recent decades has revealed the multiple benefits that can be gained from conserving, restoring, and enhancing green infrastructure in cities. The ecosystem services provided by healthy stocks of natural capital in cities reduce flood risks, ameliorate the urban heat island effect, clean air, secure and protect water supplies, and enhance both inward investment and resilience to economic volatility. The international conservation movement recognizes the need to urgently deliver nature-based solutions in urban environments whilst fully engaging and empowering city people in the process of so doing. In conclusion, at a global level, urban ecology has come a long way and we stand on the edge of finally putting nature-based solutions at the heart of urban thinking, planning, and practice across the world.
