As our cities face the pressing challenges of climate change, overpopulation, and extreme weather events, the role of urban forestry becomes increasingly vital. The Urban Tree Diversity Conference 5, to be held in April 2024 in Madrid, Spain, aims to delve into the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for urban forestry and into how tree diversity, risk management, emerging technologies, open data, citizen engagement, and communication will help in meeting these.

The 5th Urban Tree Diversity Conference (UTD5), after editions in Malmo (Sweden), Melbourne (Australia), Vancouver (Canada), and St Petersburg (USA), presents an invaluable opportunity for urban foresters, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders to come together and explore the future challenges and opportunities of urban forestry. By embracing emerging technologies, harnessing open data, and fostering citizen engagement, we can pave the way for greener and more resilient cities.

This conference serves as a platform to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and shape the future of our urban forests and trees for the benefit of our cities, our communities, and the environment.


Topics

Climate Change and Risk Management
The impact of climate change on urban areas calls for the transformation of our future cities. Urban forests offer a unique nature-based solution by providing adaptive strategies for climate change mitigation and risk management. By exploring innovative approaches, such as tree species diversification and green infrastructure development, urban foresters can enhance the resilience and livability of urban areas in the face of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.

Emerging Technologies
Incorporating emerging technologies into urban forestry practices can revolutionize the way we manage and monitor our urban forests. From advanced remote sensing techniques to drone technology and data analytics, these tools enable precise monitoring of tree health, early detection of diseases, and efficient resource allocation. The conference will delve into the latest technological advancements and their application in urban tree species selection, highlighting their potential for enhancing the sustainability and effectiveness of urban forest management.

Open Data, Citizen Engagement, and Communication
Effective management of urban forests requires collaboration and engagement from citizens and stakeholders. Open data platforms provide opportunities for transparent information sharing, enabling citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes. By fostering citizen engagement, urban foresters can tap into the collective wisdom and expertise of the community. The conference will explore strategies for leveraging open data, citizen engagement, and effective communication to create a sense of ownership and promote diverse urban trees and forests.