Urban Nature Exchange in Mannheim: Insights and Key Learnings

Mannheim, a biodiversity hotspot located on a floodplain between two rivers, hosted the third in-person Urban Nature Exchange (UNE) from 14-16 October 2025. The exchange brought together UNP+ cities and partners to explore how biodiversity, communication, and financing can be woven into Urban Nature Plans (UNPs).

“Biodiversity is one of the most important, but often not focused topic in politics and urban planning. Yet people can feel that something is missing as their city gets hotter and drier. That’s why we try to promote urban nature in Mannheim - not only to preserve biodiversity, but also to help people reconnect with nature and protect our own way of life.” - Prof. Dr. Diana Pretzell, Deputy and Environmental Mayor, City of Mannheim

The Mannheim UNE showcased how local commitment, cross-sector teamwork, and creativity can transform vision into action. From the transformation of the Spinelli and Franklin districts - once military sites, now vibrant green and inclusive neighbourhoods - to the innovative work of the Local Green Deal team, the city illustrated how climate targets, biodiversity and social goals can be meaningfully connected.

Participants also discussed the potential of data dashboards to make environmental information actionable, and the importance of citizen science and participatory approaches to strengthen dialogue between residents and administrations. Visits to the Green School in Luisenpark and a participatory birdwatching session highlighted how environmental education and curiosity can foster community ownership of urban nature.

Key messages that resonated across the sessions:

• A clear, inclusive vision is essential to align stakeholders and guide consistent action.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration turns climate targets into local action.
• Data platforms such as biodiversity atlases can enhance transparency and help monitor progress.
• Business model thinking can help finance and sustain Urban Nature Plans.
• Our communities thrive when nature, mobility, housing and inclusion are designed together from the start.

As Celeste Rouberol, City of Paris reflected, “Projects like UNP+ offer a moment of solidarity between city technical staff across Europe. It is a heartfelt moment to hear that other localities are facing similar challenges and working towards common goals.”

The UNE in Mannheim reaffirmed that creating greener, more resilient cities is a collective journey — one that grows stronger through shared learning, reflection, and collaboration.

Publishing date: 3 November 2025