The Blurred Boundaries of Nature and Cities: Exploring the Intersection of Urbanization and the Environment

Does nature really end where cities begin?

The Interconnectedness of Nature and Cities

On October 2nd, UN World Habitat Day marked the beginning of Urban October, a month dedicated to promoting sustainable urbanization and recognizing the vital role cities play in protecting nature and biodiversity. At first glance, the combination of nature and cities may seem contradictory. Many of us view nature as a destination separate from our urban lives, a place we escape to in order to find tranquility away from the chaos and noise of the city. However, the truth is that nature is not confined to remote areas. It exists everywhere, even within the confines of our cities.

Nature can be found in the air we breathe, the rivers that flow through our urban landscapes, and the food we consume. It reveals itself in the sounds of children playing outside and the songs of birds in our parks. Nature is present in the rain that falls and the innate instinct that keeps us connected to our environment. The essence of nature penetrates the very fabric of our cities, making it an integral part of our daily lives.

The Ecological Tapestry of Cities

Cities are not desolate spaces devoid of nature; rather, they are vibrant habitats teeming with diverse forms of life. They serve as ever-evolving ecosystems where human beings come together to coexist. However, it is important to recognize that many cities have been designed in a way that prioritizes concrete and cars over people-centric transportation, private spaces over public areas, and systems that favor the interests of a select few over the well-being of the majority.

In the face of this domination and marginalization, life finds a way to resist. Just as a flower breaks through asphalt or communities on the fringes fight for their right to be part of the city and access safe housing, nature persists. Cities are not built solely by some to be occupied by others; they are continuously shaped and reshaped by the communities that call them home. It is through the collective efforts and actions of citizens that cities truly come alive.

The Urban Justice Campaign

In celebration of Urban October, Greenpeace’s Urban Justice campaign aims to highlight the initiatives and resilience of communities all over the world working towards safer, cleaner, and more inclusive cities. These communities, often historically marginalized, bring their lived experiences and collective power to the forefront, transforming cities into equitable, green, and resilient spaces for all.

Consider the example of Flor Alba García, a waste picker in Bogota who has tirelessly worked for over 40 years to not only make the city cleaner but also to advocate for fair pay and recognition for waste pickers in Colombia. Similarly, Cecep Supriyadi and his community in Jakarta have been fighting for their right to decent housing and clean air.

Throughout October, Greenpeace invites individuals to join the movement for urban justice and support the efforts of communities worldwide in creating cities that embrace nature and prioritize the well-being of all residents. The goal is not to push nature out but to bring life to the very heart of our cities.

Camilo Sanchez is the International Communication Strategist for the Urban Justice project.

Keywords: Urbanization, Environment, Nature, Cities, Blurred Boundaries