Past Program

Loneliness, crime, and fractured communities are frequent symbols of city life and nine of the top 10 causes of death are related to poor urban design. Many cities have a fundamentally parasitic relationship with their surrounding ecosystems and exacerbate climate change and its symptoms. How can we make these urban environments better for both their populations and the planet?

In this first virtual session of the 2021 Parks for the Planet Annual Forum, participants will explore the theme of loneliness and the city. Following an opening panel discussion we will explore a series of key questions:

• How can urban and building design promote social connection and reduce loneliness? With particular focus on parks and public spaces
• How can parks and other public spaces be utilized to promote social connection and reduce loneliness? 
• What would comprise a set of urban-connectedness metrics? How best to measure the current situation and eventual changes to this? 

If you are interested in taking part in the Parks for the Planet Forum 2021, please send an email explaining your motivations and what you would bring to the program to Dominic Regester and Jennifer Dunn.