Biodiversity - A Foundation for Livable Cities and Villages
Biodiversity in Switzerland is under significant pressure: around a third of all animal and plant species, as well as over 40 percent of habitats, are endangered. However, cities, agglomerations, and villages offer great potential to promote nature in settlement areas - for example, by incorporating natural, well-connected green spaces into urban planning, greening roofs and facades, or unsealing surfaces. The new Zurich Nature Centre addresses this: it makes urban biodiversity visible and tangible, fosters enthusiasm for wildlife in the settlement area, and strengthens awareness of their protection and promotion.
From Historical Site to Modern Nature Centre
In a feasibility study, the city of Zurich examined various renovation options to renew the listed aviary pavilion and develop it into a nature centre. These results now serve as a basis to evaluate the next steps towards a modern, centrally located educational centre.
Experiencing and Promoting Nature Up Close
Until the new centre opens, the 'Nature Mobile' will bring a wealth of information about plants and animals in urban spaces directly to the municipalities of the canton of Zurich. On-site, school and extracurricular workshops and excursions, as well as guided tours and garden consultations for individuals and communities, will be offered. Leandra Pörtner, head of the Zurich Nature Centre, is clear about the goal: 'We want to inspire fascination for the diversity of nature on our doorstep, showing how everyone can become active, with scientific backing but practical approaches.' By showing concrete action options, biodiversity and bird protection in settlement areas will be promoted.
Nature on Tour: The First Stops...
The 'Nature Mobile' will be deployed for one to two months in various municipalities of the canton of Zurich. The tour starts on 18 May in the city of Zurich. The first stop is at the Bachwiesen Community Centre (18 May to 19 June), followed by the Buchegg Community Centre (22 June to 29 August). The next stations will be in the municipalities of Zumikon and Oberglatt.
The exact opening times and detailed programme will be published on the new website of the Nature Centre.