As the planet continues to rapidly urbanize there is a growing sense that a new model of cities is needed: one that overcomes the physical (and mental) disconnect between humans and nature. Timothy Beatley believes that contact with nature is not something optional but it is absolutely essential for leading a happy, healthy, and meaningful life. Beatley will review the many ways in which cities are already profoundly natureful and biodiverse and he will describe the emerging vision and practice of Biophilic Cities. He will discuss the newly formed global Biophilic Cities Network and will provide examples of innovative design and planning in cities in the Network. 

Timothy Beatley is the Teresa Heinz Professor of Sustainable Communities, in the Department of Urban and Environmental Planning, School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, where he has taught for the last thirty years. Beatley is the author or co-author of more than fifteen books, including Blue Urbanism: Exploring Connections Between Oceans and Cities (Island Press, 2014) and Blue Biophilic Cities: Nature and Resilience Along the Urban Coast (Palgrave, 2018).  Beatley directs the Biophilic Cities Project at UVA (http://biophiliccities.org/) and is also co-founder of UVA’s Center for Design and Health, within the School of Architecture.