Online tool for collecting information and opinions in the course of introducing new UGI approaches and doing UGI transition projects. EcosystemsUrban ImplementationEcosystem approachEcosystem managementHabitat creation MethodsModellingStakeholder involvement TopicsBiodiversityClimate changeCatchment Ecosystem ServiceswaterGreen infrastructure Uses of this productMunicipalities and citizens lack of enough knowledge and awareness about the overall benefits and especially potential synergies between the single UGI elements. So far very often UGI is perceived as expensive and more difficult to implement compare to classic engineering solutions. Additional informationWHO SHOULD BE INVOLVED? The tool can engage a diverse range of interested users such as local authorities, building owners or local community involved in the management and maintenance of green spaces. FACILITATORY (PUBLIC) BODIES: green space department; land use planning department; environmental and sustainability department; strategic planning department LOCAL TASK FORCE: local or regional authority; researcher; professional expert; community group; business; investor; landowner; ngo SUITABLE FOR: dense inner city; underused urban site & building; brownfield development site; urban region MAIN NECESSARY RESOURCES ARE: monetary investments; local knowledge; expert knowledge; legal legitimization; public institutional set-up ConstraintsUrban Green Infrastructure (UGI) plays a key role safeguarding against flooding and other negative effects related to climate change, but to date there is no specific European regulation for the implementation of UGI, even though there are several European policies targeted at supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of land resources. In recent years, European Local Public Authorities have introduced the use of "green" elements in urban areas as an effective approach to environmental improvement and compensation through the regulation of microclimate, noise control and air pollution mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and the use of energy-saving buildings. However, the increasing use of artificial "green" elements (such as green roofs, green walls, among others) within European urban regulations is still carried out as merely isolated initiatives. Product requirementsOverall, this comprehensive online tool supports the dissemination of relevant information and thus, contributes to raising awareness on a wide range of stakeholders, supports decision-making processes and promotes the implementation of innovative solutions and technologies.See - 'Who should be involved?' (additional information) AdvantagesStarting point is the combination of a bottom-up approach that includes and takes along the community and a top-down approach following legislation and political strategies. To this end, the tool focuses on informing all stakeholders about potentials of a "green" approach in the face of urban challenges such as flood and heat stress and collecting their opinions on this matter. In this regard, an open and user-friendly application was developed to gather information, assess opinions and potentially allow for the information and training of users. Step by step, guided along a path, users can be informed about innovative approaches and technologies, about potential benefits and disadvantages of existing examples, while simultaneously asked for their opinion. The final outcome can be saved and even compared with the one obtained by other participants.Main outcomes: knowledge/data, stakeholder integration, and community empowerment. LinksBarometer webpageTURAS tool webpage Contact detailsTURAS Expert contact: Laura Berardi
