Juan Rovalo’s Post

When one of the largest design firms in the world hire a fulltime ecologist it makes it so easy to dream harder about working with them to create healthy built environments. #reduce, #reuse....than #us! #BTRFlooringRecycling #weoverme #sustainability #environment #innovative #recycling #circular #economy

🌱 From Lawns to Meadows: How a Bold Shift Doubled My Revenue 🌼 I started my business in the middle of Summer of 2022 with a pair of pruners, a shovel, and a Facebook post. I was burnt out from trying to fit the mold of various roles in the landscaping industry because I valued more time freedom, a true life/work balance, and not being stuck in a “9-5, with possible weekends and late nights.” I was always questioning methods of the companies I worked for, and held a passion for environmental stewardship. (Huge thanks to my Environmental studies teacher in High School!) At the end of the first 6 months of owning and operating my business, I noticed there was a huge need for businesses and individuals advocating for what we were losing - loss of habitat, stormwater issues, and decline in pollinators. The next year of my business I doubled down on a framework and a system that converted lawns to meadows and had a positive impact on the environment. Not only that, I experienced: 📈 A doubling of revenue and a profound transformation of my business. This journey pushed me to think differently, to innovate, and to recognize where the landscape industry is heading: 🌍 A focus on ecological responsibility 🦋 Designs that prioritize pollinators and wildlife 💧 Solutions for better water management and soil health Being a trailblazer in this space hasn’t always been easy, but the rewards—both financial and environmental—have been undeniable. To fellow professionals: the shift is happening. Clients are asking for sustainable solutions, and the demand for nature-forward landscapes is growing. Let’s continue to lead, inspire, and redefine what’s possible in our industry. 💬stay tuned as I will be sharing my framework with you this month! • #WomenEntrepreneurs • #WomenWhoLead • #WomenInLeadership • #NativePlants • #NativeLandscaping • #PlantNative • #NativePlantDesign • #Biodiversity • #Sustainability • #SustainableDesign • #SustainableLandscaping • #EcoFriendly • #GreenBusiness #SustainableLandscapeDesign #EcologicalDesign #OutdoorSpaces #LandscapeArchitecture

Taking care of the environment is what we do – and we’ve been it doing for years. Whether we are designing and installing an entirely new space, or looking after one you already have, we always seek out the most sustainable solutions that are appropriate for your property and encourage biodiversity. 🌎 Green by Design With the rapid increase of urbanisation in our towns and cities, the importance of protecting and nurturing our natural ecosystems has never been greater. That’s why we’ve developed a range of dedicated environmental services and supports. Working directly with planners, local authorities and architects right through to property, facility and sustainability managers, our solutions integrate nature into the urban environment and boost the sustainability credentials of your landscape. 🌎 Biodiversity & Environmental Support Led by our in-house Biodiversity Ambassador, our team offers specialist support in helping you achieve your ESG and sustainability goals. We can guide you towards greener practices when constructing, maintaining or rethinking your landscape. We survey your site, identify potential areas for improvement, support you in implementing and managing these changes and provide all the information and documentation you need to report on your environmental initiatives. As a proud Business Supporter of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, we place a particular emphasis on boosting the biodiversity value of your property. 🌎 Biodiversity & Environmental Services Our dedicated greening solutions create natural habitats where people, plants and wildlife can thrive. We provide a full design, installation and maintenance service for meadows, living walls and roof gardens. These bring enormous environmental benefits to any landscape, allowing you to introduce more diverse flora and fauna to your scheme, improve air quality, save energy and even manage rainwater. 🌎 Seeds of Change We are changing the way our industry thinks about, and reacts to, today’s environmental challenges. In this ever-evolving field, we always follow the science, bringing you the latest tested solutions and developing innovative approaches of our own. Our years of experience allow us to see the wood for the trees, and you can trust us to present the most considered response, whatever your environmental issue. Playing our part. Contact us at [email protected] for more information on how we can assist you and your commercial premises. #SAPLandscapes #EarthDay2024 #Environment #TheFuture

A striking conclusion? More green space does not always mean higher costs. On the contrary, strategic choices for biodiversity can actually be cost-saving. With the increasing focus on biodiversity, real estate investors are exploring ways to integrate nature into their projects. Rebel, on behalf of CBRE Investment Management, conducted a study to see how this could be applied to NN Group's real estate portfolio. The sustainable housing project Westerpark West 2B in Amsterdam was chosen as a pilot. In collaboration with ecological agency Waardenburg Ecology, the area's local flora and fauna were mapped. Marije Braam-Mesken, portfolio manager at CBRE Investment Management, admitted she wasn’t sure what to expect: "𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯?" Bridging the gap between ecologists and investors requires a shift in perspective. As our Rebel Mark Bode puts it: "𝘉𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘴, 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘢𝘭𝘴." One key takeaway? More green space doesn’t always mean higher costs. In fact, making strategic choices for biodiversity can lead to cost savings. Read the full article here:  https://lnkd.in/eZEDfPUv #Biodiversity #RealEstate #Sustainability #NatureInclusiveBuilding #CSRD #SustainableRealEstate

Sustainable Development in Action: How Philadelphia is Embracing SDG #15 - Life on Land As we strive for a more sustainable future, it's inspiring to see how global initiatives like the United Nations's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are taking shape in our local communities. Let's explore how Philadelphia is making strides towards SDG #15 - Life on Land. Urban Forestry: Philadelphia's "Greenworks" initiative aims to increase tree coverage to 30% in all neighborhoods by 2025. This not only beautifies our city but also supports biodiversity and improves air quality. (https://lnkd.in/g4diN72R) Land Restoration: Our city is actively restoring brownfield sites, transforming former industrial areas into vibrant, sustainable spaces. (https://lnkd.in/gj2G9DFe) Green Spaces: Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban park systems in the U.S., provides crucial habitats for local flora and fauna while offering residents a connection to nature. (https://lnkd.in/ee87QhPp) Urban Agriculture: Philadelphia's growing urban farming movement is promoting sustainable land use and increasing biodiversity right in our neighborhoods. (https://farmphilly.org/) We’re excited to reveal a brand-new mural at Chestnut Hill College, sponsored by TD Bank and Chestnut Hill College, all about SDG #15: Life on Land. This mural brings attention to the wildlife and habitats we need to protect—right here in our city! What sustainable initiatives have you noticed in your community? Share in the comments below!

Many cities worldwide are already implementing actions to tackle the climate emergency and become more sustainable. That’s why #ICLEI and IMPAKTER are launching the brand new Sustainable cities series! We start with a deep dive into the sustainable journey of the City of Fort Collins, Colorado. 👉 https://lnkd.in/emQS4GXR Fort Collins stands as a shining example of sustainability, particularly in its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 15 – Life on Land. Over the past three decades, this city has conserved over 50,000 acres of open space and developed 114 miles of trails, providing its community with inclusive and equitable access to nature. Mayor Jeni James Arndt, who brings a North American perspective to the ICLEI Global Executive Committee, emphasizes, "Equitable access to nature is fundamental to community building. We strive to place parks within a 10-minute walk of every neighborhood, enhancing the quality of life for all our residents." 🌳 Key highlights from Fort Collins' efforts: ☑ Urban Forest Management: Prioritizing tree diversity, drought tolerance, and maintenance to promote health and longevity. ☑ Water Conservation: Implementing water-smart landscapes to reduce regional water demand while supporting biodiversity. ☑ Bird Habitat Conservation: Achieving the Bird City USA designation and implementing the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program at several city landmarks. ☑ Community Engagement: Engaging local communities and indigenous groups in biodiversity preservation and decision-making processes. 🌺 Moreover, the city's Nature in the City program encourages private landowners to plant native landscapes, while the Nature in the City Strategic Plan outlines policies to ensure easy access to high-quality natural spaces and promote responsible land stewardship. #SustainableCities #ICLEI #SDG15 #NatureConservation #UrbanSustainability #CommunityEngagement #FortCollins ICLEI USA

We're excited to share the results of a recent #biodiversity study conducted by Rebel for CBRE IM on the Westerpark West 2B residential development in #Amsterdam. This project, commissioned by NN Group, highlights the benefits of integrating nature into #realestate investments. With biodiversity under increasing pressure, it's crucial for real estate investors to consider nature in their projects. New regulations, such as the nature restoration regulation and the CSRD directive, underscore this urgency. Key insights from the study include: 🌳 Positive Impact on Living Experience: Enhancing biodiversity can improve the living experience for residents. 🌻 Cost Reduction: More biodiversity often translates to lower costs, as seen with the use of native plants and reduced maintenance needs. 🌹 Ecological Benefits: Increased flora and fauna diversity, better water capture, and reduced heat and noise pollution. This case study demonstrates that thoughtful design and early consideration of nature can lead to #ecological and #financial benefits. To read more about the project, visit here: https://cbreim.co/4gfX6l0 Or follow this link to the case study and findings: https://cbreim.co/4huwNbC We look forward to continuing to bridge the gap between ecological and financial perspectives and create more sustainable, biodiverse developments. Marije Braam-Mesken Tim Winters

🌍 A Decade of Lessons in Landscape Restoration: The #4_Returns_Framework in Practice After a decade of fieldwork in over 20 countries, The 4 Returns Framework in Practice: A #Guidebook for Holistic Landscape Restoration captures how degraded landscapes can transition to restored ecosystems, delivering Inspiration, Social Capital, Natural Capital, and Financial Capital. This publication offers practical insights into moving from the 4 losses of degradation to the 4 returns of restoration, anchored in an ecosystem approach. Here are my Key Takeaways from the launch event of this publication in the sidelines of the recently concluded #UNCCD_COP16 in #Riyadh. 1. #Return_on_Inspiration (#ROI) 😎: • Inspiration is the trigger and engine for action, acting as both a motivator and a barometer of success. 2. #Trust and Long-Term Thinking: • Trust is the currency of restoration, built over time through transparency and shared vision. Moving beyond short-term project thinking to holistic approaches is vital, measured in biodiversity and trust. 3. The #4_Returns_Narrative: • It serves as the glue for multi-stakeholder partnerships, enabling integrated, bottom-up landscape plans. The framework bridges local innovation with public and private top-down policies, breaking silos and fostering collaboration. 4. #Blended_Finance and #Private_Sector_Engagement: • The framework supports creating blended finance plans, with private sector interest growing. Yet, 70% of investments still come from governments, 20% from ODA, and only 6% from the private sector (🤔Though I wonder what is the share of farmers and communities led restoration initiatives 🤔). Shifting this balance starts with inspiration. 5. #Learning_from_Mistakes: • Control is an illusion in restoration, but honest guidance throughout the process builds resilience and trust. Continuity costs €300,000–500,000 annually per landscape, but this reduces social and environmental risks. Key Insights • The Theory U method of deep listening builds connection but requires repetition as stakeholders change. • The framework’s flexibility and open-source nature empower farmers, NGOs, and indigenous communities to take ownership. • Replicability works: The framework has inspired many landscapes to adopt it for managing complexity and fostering action. A Call to Action The 4 Returns Framework in Practice is more than a guide—it’s a vision for transitioning from degradation to restoration, fostering ecosystems of trust and collaboration. Let this book inspire and empower action for a sustainable future. 🌱 Never stop restoring. Together, we can build resilient landscapes and communities. Get a copy of the guidebook by scanning the QR code. Kudos to Willem Ferwerda and Commonland

Saving Mohenjo Daro: A Collaborative Effort for Cultural and Environmental Preservation Mohenjo Daro, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site, holds immense historical and cultural significance. Mohenjo Daro, one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, is a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of early urban planning. Its well-structured layout, advanced drainage systems, and impressive architecture provide a window into a civilization that thrived over 4,500 years ago. Preserving this site is not only about maintaining physical remnants but also about safeguarding the legacy of human history and knowledge. In alignment with UNESCO's goals, the IDA team is dedicated to rendering our services towards the successful implementation of this project. Specifically, we will focus on tree plantation and soil enhancement efforts to improve the fertility of the land surrounding Mohenjo Daro. These efforts will not only contribute to the preservation of this heritage site but also enhance the overall ecological health of the region. The Indus Development Association has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices in the region. Our initiatives in tree plantation and soil improvement are designed to address the pressing environmental challenges that threaten Mohenjo Daro. By enhancing the fertility of the surrounding land, we aim to create a buffer that protects the site from erosion and other environmental threats. This, in turn, supports the broader ecosystem and promotes biodiversity. We appreciate UNESCO's approach to fostering innovative soil conservation and land management projects through this initiative. The provision of training for site managers, government agencies, conservation organizations, and indigenous communities is a commendable strategy to equip these stakeholders with the necessary tools to protect this essential resource. Furthermore, the educational component aimed at raising awareness and involving younger generations aligns with our mission to promote ecosystem literacy and sustainable practices. The Indus Development Association is ready and eager to collaborate with UNESCO in this endeavor. We believe that by working together, we can ensure the effectiveness of the management methods implemented in Mohenjo Daro and contribute to the global deployment of best practices in soil and landscape management. Saving Mohenjo Daro is a cause that transcends cultural and national boundaries. It is a testament to our collective responsibility to preserve our shared heritage and protect the environment for future generations. By supporting UNESCO's initiative, we are taking a crucial step towards ensuring that Mohenjo Daro continues to inspire and educate people from around the world. Together, we can safeguard this iconic site and promote a sustainable future for all.

🌍✨ We feel it's our duty to share that The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is proudly supporting an important new digital series in partnership with Content With Purpose (CWP): "The Nature of Building: Biodiversity & the Built Environment." 🏗️🌿 🌿 This series dives into the vital connection between construction and nature, stressing the urgent need to tackle the biodiversity crisis. Key highlights: 🌍 Wildlife populations have dropped by 69% since 1970 (WWF Living Planet Report) 🐾 Many UK species are at risk of extinction (State of Nature Report) 🎬 The series features short films and interviews, showcasing innovative projects that put nature first in construction. It explores how we can build for the future 🌱 without sacrificing biodiversity. "The Nature of Building" will inspire professionals, organisations, and the public to take action and build a more sustainable future. Part 1 is now live, with Part 2 coming on November 18th. Watch here! 👀 https://lnkd.in/dqDU4sjE Amanda Williams FIEMA CEnv, The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Head of Environmental Sustainability, says: “With the accelerating biodiversity crisis, it's vital for the built environment sector to take action and place nature at the heart of decisions. We're delighted to support this series, which aims to inspire greater ambition in our industry.” In light of recent new members joining BUILDOFFSITE this is an opportune moment to be engaged and #collaborateForImpact! The trend we are seeing from our new members is materiality, decarbonisation, digitisation, adoption of #offsite in construction! Shout out below! London Prefab Abode industries Ltd Bio-SIP Building Tomorrow DataForm Lab Apply Structure Ltd HEMSPAN Ltd Incredible Husk International GBP Estates LTD #Biodiversity #Sustainability #Construction #BuiltEnvironment #NaturePositive #CIOB Gary Taylor Development/Commercial Real Estate Robert Barker John Arthur Justin Murray Eva Magnisali Anthony Pearce Lulie Anderson keith ridgeway