Dr Joanna Leach is research fellow at the University of Birmingham. This is a fascinating podcast where some surprising green initiatives being implemented in Biophilic Cities are discussed, think bats and bridges as well as incredible edible towns. The more connected we are with our environment and nature the better. Imagine a city where we can see nature, smell fresh air, hear bird song.

Photo of Dr Joanne Leach, copyright Simon R Leach.

Dr Leach makes the really valid point that cities are not 'natural' entities, they are heavily engineered spaces, they are dense, and their impact goes far beyond their borders. We need to think of new ways to improve the environments while also improving the infrastructure of the spaces.

We discuss different initiatives that sustain people, the economic machinery and our planet.

Dr Leach's focus is currently on Birmingham, where she explains there is a great deal of innovation on green infrastructure. If you look at a satellite map of Birmingham you'll see that it is actually very green, and with more miles of canals that Venice, they are connecting up green and blue spaces to make the city accessible and create safe car-free and walking environments. She also tells us of projects by other cities, from Bats and Bridges and Incredible Edible Todmorden.

If you’re involved in city or town planning, are an architect, developer or a citizen who cares where they live, this podcast is definitely worth a listen. Cities and Towns can do things differently, they just need to learn how to.