MUST-Urban Transformation Talks #8: Exploring Urban Human-Nature Connections and Biodiversity in Indonesia
Group photo: offline and online participants
South Tangerang, 13 June 2024 – Monash University, Indonesia hosted MUST (Enabling Multispecies Transition)-Urban Transformation Talks Series 8, an event dedicated to exploring urban biodiversity and human-nature connection in Indonesia to enable multispecies justice. The Urban Transformation series is a platform that brings together thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the challenges and opportunities in urban transformation. The eighth instalment of this series focused on urban biodiversity and human and nature relationship in cities. The opening session featured remarks from Monash University representatives Muhammad Risqi Saputra, PhD and Eka Permanasari, PhD, followed by government officials Pak Didi Hariyana, SE, MM, from BAPPEDA Banten and IAI representative Dr.-Ing. Ir. Ar. I G. Oka Sindhu Pribadi, IAP., GP., IAI., AA.
Three distinguished speakers represented global, local and applied perspectives on integrating biodiversity into cities. Firstly, Professor Christopher Raymond, from University of Helsinki, presented on “Ecosystem services, nature-based solutions and beyond: Exploring changes in environmental valuation that bring new perspectives in nature-based solutions, Next Dr. Nurul Winarni, a researcher from University of Indonesia’s Research Center for Climate Change, described how to improve Multispecies justice in urban Jakarta. Finally, Marco Buinhass M.Arch, Design director from enCity presented a case study on “Living with Water Saigon MP: A Response to Climate Change”, providing a real world example of how a city has integrated nature for climate change adaptation.
The speaker and participants conducting a group discussion
The seminar concluded with a discussion led by Professor Alex Lechner and the three speakers. Prof Alex Lechner stated, "Urban biodiversity is becoming an increasingly crucial subject for cities in Indonesia, providing a range of benefits to local communities. This seminar offered a valuable chance to gain insights on this key topic, which is pertinent to the future of our urban environments. However, it remains a relatively underexplored area in Indonesia."
Group photo: the speakers and participants
Following the seminar, a workshop on ecological connectivity was led by Risty Khoirunisa, a Monash University, Indonesia PhD student, funded by MUST. Ecologists, and biologists collaborated to identify important species and critical habitats in cities, as well as the challenges for urban biodiversity. Workshop participants included representatives from universities such as UI, UNTIRTA, UNAS, and UNJ; NGOs like WWF Indonesia and WCS Indonesia; and government agencies including Bappeda Banten and BRIN (National Research and Innovation Agency). This workshop is part of the MUST (Multispecies Justice Transition in Cities and Region) project, in collaboration with research institutes in Finland and the United Kingdom.
About MUST Project
MUST (Enabling Multispecies Transitions) is a research project funded by the Finnish Strategic Research Council (SRC). Our vision is to enable multispecies transitions in which humans and other species can adapt to a new way of life that supports their mutual well-being, without high levels of suffering or inequality between different groups of people, other species or populations.
Our interdisciplinary team brings together researchers from environmental education to human geography, environmental economics, spatial ecology, resilience in urban and regional planning and geospatial approaches, exploring how to change our relationship with nature. We set the stage for a multisectoral collaboration, working with ministries, businesses, cities, regions, companies, organisations and local community groups to seek new approaches to manage biodiversity. For more information about this project, please visit MUST Project.
About Master of Urban Design at Monash University, Indonesia
The Master of Urban Design program is designed for individuals who possess design skills and experience and are interested in expanding their knowledge of urban design. This degree is ideal for professionals working in government agencies, architectural firms specialising in urban design, and urban enthusiasts.
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including sustainability, smart cities, and urban policy, to equip graduates with the skills and expertise needed for successful careers in the field. With a focus on practical application and real-world projects, students will develop the necessary skills to address complex urban design challenges.
By enrolling in a master's program at Monash University, Indonesia, students gain access to an excellent Australian educational experience within Indonesia itself. Additionally, they will have a chance to spend one year studying in Indonesia, followed by six months in Australia. This unique arrangement provides students with invaluable international exposure, fostering a global perspective and equipping them with cross-cultural skills crucial for success in our interconnected world.