Los Angeles commits to urban biodiversity

Urban biodiversity Los Angeles
Urban biodiversity Los Angeles Photo credit Getty Images

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The city of Los Angeles announced Friday it enacted a formal resolution to join the Biophilic Cities Network with the goal of promoting and collaborating with participating member municipalities to support urban biodiversity and create opportunities for Angelenos to connect with nature.

"The Department of Public Works is proud to support all efforts that increase access to nature for Los Angeles residents," said Susana Reyes, a commissioner of the Board of Public Works. "This opportunity helps Los Angeles become a greener and more resilient city."

As a member of the Biophilic Cities Network, the city would be able to network, distribute resources and share best practices with other members.

In addition, the city has taken a variety of actions to promote biodiversity and protect green spaces such as the development of the L.A. City Biodiversity Index, which helps assess biodiversity health and other initiatives.

Barbara Romero, director and general manager of L.A. Sanitation and Environment (LASAN), called the decision to join the network a "great opportunity." Romero noted the city has a long history of protecting biodiversity and urban ecosystems.

In 2017, LASAN established its biodiversity program to increase wildlife connectivity, encourage the use of native plants in public and private landscapes, promote stewardship of natural parks and advance biodiversity goals and initiatives.

JD Brown, program director of Biophilic Cities Network, said the city of Los Angeles would be a "tremendous resource" and partner.

In a statement, LASAN said the city is developing biodiversity guidelines that will help project managers incorporate biodiversity-friendly practices into their designs. These guidelines would advise public and private landlords on how to best design projects and manage properties to improve habitat quality and enhance local biodiversity.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images