Graduate Certificate in Urban Nature Connection
Published on June 22, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to be talking with Dr. Jane Green, an expert in urban ecology and the lead instructor for the new Graduate Certificate in Urban Nature Connection. Welcome, Jane! GUEST: Thanks for having me, I'm looking forward to our conversation! HOST: To start, could you share a bit about your personal experiences that led you to focus on urban nature? GUEST: Of course! I grew up in a city but always felt a strong connection to nature. As an urban planner, I saw firsthand the benefits of integrating green spaces into our concrete jungles, and I've been passionate about this work ever since. HOST: Fascinating. Now let's talk about the course. What are some current industry trends that learners can expect to explore? GUEST: We'll delve into topics like biophilic design, climate change adaptation, and social equity in access to urban nature. These are critical issues in today's urban landscapes. HOST: Those sound like important and timely subjects. Now, what challenges have you faced in this field or while teaching this subject? GUEST: One major challenge is helping students and professionals see the value in investing time and resources into urban nature, especially when there are so many pressing needs in cities. However, once they understand the numerous benefits, such as improved public health and increased community engagement, they're usually convinced. HOST: That's a crucial point. Looking to the future, where do you see this area or industry heading? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see a growing emphasis on making cities more livable and sustainable. By understanding and applying the principles of urban nature connection, professionals can play a vital role in shaping the cities of tomorrow. HOST: Dr. Green, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights about the Graduate Certificate in Urban Nature Connection. It's been a pleasure learning from you. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I hope our conversation has inspired listeners to explore their potential and contribute to creating thriving natural environments in our urban spaces.
