As the population continues to grow, so does the density of buildings and infrastructure. In addition, urban sprawl is taking place in many communities. The associated sealing in of green spaces and human activities have caused the destruction of some flora and fauna habitats and are increasingly leading to heat islands due to their heat absorption. To prevent such negative effects and promote the opportunities of green urban development, we support cities and municipalities in creating new habitats and a better quality of life in urban areas through holistic planning and targeted measures.
Old and wild lawns next to short-cut playgrounds, unused railroad areas as well as urban parks and individual trees along roadsides represent a valuable mosaic of diverse habitats in a relatively small area. According to the “BiodiverCity” study, such types of urban habitat can even replace habitats that have become rare in the natural and cultural landscape. For example, old railroad areas provide open gravel surfaces similar to dry gravel riverbank areas, while vegetated flat roofs and facades and traffic infrastructure such as bus stops and traffic circles form valuable stepping stones or independent habitats within the urban landscape, depending on the mobility of the animal species. Intep seeks synergies between different stakeholders and strives to find ecologically, economically and socially optimal solutions and support their implementation.
The interconnected and holistically considered green design of cities represents a mutual benefit for a variety of plant species, animal species, as well as for city dwellers. For example, nature in cities performs the following functions, among others:
Studies have shown that access to nature contributes to the quality of life for a large part of the urban population and that proximity to green spaces is a deciding factor in choosing whereto live. The creation of green spaces can enhance existing buildings and create new attractive residential or office buildings that counteract climate change. For the sustainable design of residential, commercial and office areas, intep works together with municipalities as well as with planners and architects. We participate in studies and events on modern urban living and working with regard to social as well as ecological aspects, without losing sight of the economic aspects. We look for long-term solutions that lead to the desired benefits for all.
With technical and planning expertise, as well as with an environmental science and biology background, intep has a holistic approach that covers all pillars of sustainability. We are committed to the transfer of knowledge and the sensitization of developers, municipalities and the population by addressing the opportunities of certain forms of management of horizontal and vertical green spaces in cities, drawing attention to synergies and addressing dangers such as those posed by the spread of neophytes or by our wastewater. Finally, we point out new sustainable possibilities and their benefits for people and the environment, such as the environmentally friendly operation of swimming pools both in the leisure sector and in hotel facilities.