AGENDA DATE: 8/6/2025
TITLE:
Title
Biophilic Cities Network Presentation
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Presentation on the Biophilic Cities Network and the opportunity for Albemarle County membership.
ITEM TYPE: Regular Information Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Wall, Ellington
PRESENTER (S): Noah Ellington, County Executive Office Intern
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: The Biophilic Cities Network (“Network”) was established in 2011 by Dr. Tim Beatley at the University of Virginia (UVA), building on research he initiated at UVA's School of Architecture in 2010. The term "biophilia," defined by biologist E.O. Wilson in 1984, describes the inherent human affinity for nature. The Network formally launched in 2013 with a symposium in Charlottesville that convened leaders from seven major cities. The organization has since expanded to include more than 30 partner cities worldwide, four of which are located in Virginia.
A biophilic city integrates nature throughout urban planning to support both biodiversity and human well-being. These cities incorporate green spaces, native ecosystems, and wildlife habitats through features like urban forests, green roofs, and community gardens, recognizing that connection with nature is essential for residents' health and environmental sustainability.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Quality of Life - Encourage a vibrant community with economic and recreational opportunities that serve all community members
DISCUSSION: The Network offers practical resources, including webinars, conferences, and an online repository. The Network's diversity reflects the universal appeal of biophilic design. Five continents are represented in the Network, and the populations of partner cities range from 36,000 (Fremantle, Australia) to 5.9 million (Singapore). Sixteen of the 32 partner cities are in the United States, with four in Virginia. In April, the City of Charlottesville obtained City Council approval of its application to become a partner city.
Discussions with Virginia partner localities demonstrate the Network's practical value. Arlington leveraged its membership to strengthen tree protection ordinances, while Reston treats the partnership as a unifying, politically viable environmental commitment. Norfolk has integrated biophilic principles into its comprehensive plan (NFK2050) through an "Embracing Nature" chapter and is exploring zoning amendments requiring minimum tree canopy coverage. Beyond Virginia, Raleigh (NC) has launched a Street Tree Equity Project that identifies neighborhoods with insufficient tree coverage and provides free street trees to residents. Other U.S. localities of note include Phoenix (AZ), Austin (TX), Washington D.C., and Miami-Dade County (FL).
The Guidelines for Participation in the Biophilic Cities Network (Attachment A) describe the obligations and expectations for localities joining the Biophilic Cities Network. If the Board were interested in joining the Network, the County would be required to adopt a resolution of intent stating that the County supports the goals of biophilic cities, acknowledges the importance of nature in urban life, and declares the its intent to join the Network. Following Board approval of the resolution, staff would prepare an application package to the Network. The application would include a narrative statement describing ways in which the County is already biophilic (including key initiatives, programs, policies, and projects already underway), and a statement of goals and aspirations for the future. The County would also select at least five indicators by which its biophilic qualities could be assessed The County would also be required to designate a Biophilic Cities Network Contact and Coordinator.
By joining the Network, the County would commit to annual engagement through activities such as sharing content (blog posts, case studies, or videos), participating in webinars, responding to peer requests, hosting delegations when needed, attending conferences, and supporting local network members.
BUDGET IMPACT: There is no budget impact associated with this agenda item.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Board consider joining the Biophilic Cities Network. If the Board were interested in joining, staff would draft a resolution of intent for proposed adoption at a future Board meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Att. A - Biophilic Cities Network Guidelines