The GPSC is pleased to announce that the City of Paris will host the Urban Nature Network from May to July 2026, becoming the first city to take on this role under the Network’s rotating hosting modality. 

As a Lighthouse City under the GEF-8 Sustainable Cities Integrated Program (SCIP), Paris has established itself as a global leader in advancing urban nature as a central pillar of sustainable and resilient urban development. Through ambitious planning frameworks, public investment, and innovative policies, the city has integrated biodiversity, climate adaptation, and public space transformation into its broader urban development strategy. 

Paris’ experience demonstrates how urban nature can address multiple urban challenges simultaneously. Large-scale greening initiatives, tree planting, the re-naturalization of public spaces, and biodiversity restoration efforts have contributed to reducing urban heat, improving air quality, strengthening ecological systems, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. 

At the same time, Paris has become internationally recognized for reshaping urban mobility and reclaiming public space. The rapid expansion of protected cycling infrastructure, pedestrianization of key corridors, and the reallocation of street space away from private vehicles have positioned active mobility as a core element of the city’s urban model. This integrated approach—linking urban nature, sustainable mobility, and people-centered public space—illustrates how cities can deliver co-benefits across climate resilience, health, and livability. 

During its hosting period, Paris will share its experience and technical expertise with members of the Urban Nature Network through a series of activities focused on biodiversity planning, green urban infrastructure, and neighborhood greening. The city plans to convene two webinars exploring how Paris integrates urban nature into planning and investment frameworks, alongside the sharing of policies, strategies, and practical examples that support resilience and livability. 

Paris has been a long-standing partner of the GPSC and Urban Nature Program, contributing to global knowledge exchange on urban biodiversity and sustainable urban development, including hosting the second Cities4Biodiversity (C4B) deep-dive learning event. As host of the Urban Nature Network, Paris will continue supporting peer learning and helping cities explore practical pathways toward nature-positive and inclusive urban development. 

To learn more about Paris’ work and experience, explore the city profile and related Urban Nature Program resources.

Related Resources:

Paris City Profile: GPSC Paris City Profile 

Urban Nature Program: Urban Nature Network

Compendium for City Good Practice Series: How Paris Is Leveraging Nature For Climate Resilience