Forum

Ljubljana, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Brussels (Sonian Forest) show that urban forest governance blends state, civil society, and expert roles. Ljubljana stresses landowner cooperation and education; Vitoria-Gasteiz mobilizes mass citizen planting; Brussels highlights heritage and inter-regional management. All three link forests to identity and wellbeing, but differ in scale and public involvement.

In Fuzhou, Ljubljana, and Bankok, the expansion of urban forest systems within cities start with the government. The idea to restore the cities to more green environments is inspired by the history of the places and a desire to bring back elements of the past that could both enhance the city experience and recall the history of the landscape. In Fuzhou, city administration has undertaken the role of creating boulevards and promenades to connect green spaces within the city. This connectivity inspires people to spend more time outside and use green spaces. In Ljubljana and Bankok, after the project has reached a certain point, the maintenance and expansion of urban forestry and green spaces within the city seems to fall into the hands of citizens and private organizations. This allows for a deeper integration that is not restricted to government-owned areas. In Ljubljana, this is especially crucial for the success of urban forestry practice in the city, as 90% of forests within the municipality are privately-owned.