Comprehensive and functional ecological networks formed by extensive forest and water areas and the connections between them enable the natural transfer and spread of species from one habitat to another. Ecological networks are particularly important in urban environments, where habitats are often small and fragmented, exposing species to local extinctions due to random factors.
The Tampere ecological network is part of a larger regional entity. The city is located on a narrow isthmus between two large lakes and serves as an important ecological bridge between the eastern and western parts of the Tampere Region. The ecological network in Tampere is also important nationally, for example, in terms of the continuity of the flying squirrel's habitats.
The ecological network serves many species, such as bats, which use wooded routes between their predation areas, as well as frogs and other wetland species that need connections between bodies of water and wetlands.
As climate change progresses, the importance of ecological networks will continue to grow. They enable species to move from changing habitats to new areas and help species find breeding partners. This is vital for the preservation of biodiversity and the adaptation of species to new conditions.
The recreational areas of urban zones serve people, but also serve as ecological connections. Often, ecological connections run along the same routes that people use to travel from one recreational area to another, which requires careful coordination in planning. In an increasingly dense and growing city, the preservation and development of ecological networks that maintain biodiversity requires proactive, long-term, and committed work from all city operators, from master planning to maintenance. Private land areas and yards are also important in strengthening ecological networks.
Other benefits
- Adaptation to climate change: The blue-green infrastructure cools and brings shade. Healthy, interconnected, and biodiverse ecosystems tend to be more resilient to the impacts of climate change than degraded ecosystems.
- Local nature and well-being: Comprehensive ecological networks are also close to the residents' local nature and enable access to green areas close to their own homes. Easy access to nature supports the health and well-being effects of nature, such as stress relief and strengthening the immune system, through exposure to nature's good microbes. Green spaces and urban forests promote physical health by providing opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities.
- Economy: An ecological network supports the preservation of ecosystems and thus ecosystem services, which is also economically viable.
