The Nature of Our Cities: Harnessing the Power of the Natural World to Survive a Changing Planet

As cities around the globe grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, population growth, shortsighted management, and sustainability, Nadina Galle's The Nature of Our Cities: Harnessing the Power of the Natural World to Survive a Changing Planet explores the opportunities inherent when urban ecology engages technical ability. Central to Galle's work is the concept of the "Internet of Nature (IoN)," a framework that "draws from technological breakthroughs to support habitats for humans and all other species to benefit both."

Galle, an environmental engineer and urban ecologist, opens with a compelling argument: that urban areas suffer from a "false dichotomy between nature and technology." Through a series of vibrant case studies from cities such as Portland, Ore., Boston, Mass., and Amsterdam, she demonstrates how sensors, data analytics, and smart technologies can monitor and optimize the health of urban ecosystems. Whether it's tracking the growth patterns of urban forests, monitoring air and water quality, or predicting the impacts of climate change, the IoN offers a transformative approach to urban planning and management.

While technology is employed to solve problems, it's the people innovating who are most central to Galle's stories. Each of her studies is replete with details of individual scientists, activists, and community members who engage and collaborate. Galle emphasizes the importance of involving local communities in the development and implementation of IoN projects. She shares inspiring examples of grassroots initiatives in which residents, technologists, and ecologists came together to create greener, healthier urban environments.

This is an essential read for urban planners, environmentalists, technologists, and anyone interested in the future of cities. --Elizabeth DeNoma, executive editor, DeNoma Literary Services, Seattle, Wash.

Powered by: Xtenit