New York City: Urban Conservation

Many people think of urban centers as the antithesis to conservation, but that couldn’t be more false.

Why does urban conservation matter?

• Cities and the people in them are important because cities have low carbon footprints and often some of the cleanest drinking water.
• Cities are filled with modernity and wildlife. New York City, in fact, is home to more plant and animal species than Yellowstone National Park, including the fastest animal on Earth, the Peregrine Falcon.
• By the year 2050, scientists project that the world’s population will reach 9 billion people; two-thirds of that population will be city dwellers.

What are some TNC projects that impact New York City?

• An urban costal resilience project in Queens gives us important information about sea level rise.
• Our Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is located right here in New York City.
• We are working to protect the health of our city trees.

Where can I learn more about urban conservation?

• See Bill Ulfelder talk about the promise of cities on NY1.
• Watch a video about how nature is making New York a more livable city.
• Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date on this ongoing conversation.