A project targeting biodiversity gain and climate change resilience in Bloomsbury, London is turning to data from Bluesky International’s National Tree Map (NTM) to ensure proposals are built on evidence-based solutions. The Green Infrastructure Consultancy has been commissioned to provide a strategy for Wild Bloomsbury, a project aimed at increasing both the quantity and quality of multi-functional green infrastructure in Bloomsbury for the benefit of people and wildlife.

Data from Bluesky’s NTM was chosen to support the report with evidence of existing green cover. The unique dataset is the most accurate tree map covering England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland providing all tree canopy coverage and heights for trees taller than 3m.

Gary Grant, a Director at the Green Infrastructure Consultancy, authored the report. He said: “Having accurate data to present to our clients is important as it gives them the confidence to know they are making informed decisions. Bluesky’s National Tree Map is an important tool for us as we have found data provided from other sources can be quite patchy and does not give the full picture.

“The National Tree Map has not only been used at the start of this process, but it will be part of the ongoing monitoring of the site so we can analyse what has been achieved.”

Ralph Coleman, Director of Sales at Bluesky, added: “Urban greening initiatives are on the rise as local authorities and commercial organisations look to focus their plans with clear targets to tackle climate change. This is why providing accurate data is so important, to evaluate projects and catalogue what assets currently exist to help maximise the efficacy of biodiversity initiatives.”

The Wild Bloomsbury project is a partnership between University College London (UCL), University of London, Bedford Estates and London Borough of Camden Council. As well as tackling climate change, the project also aims to increase the health and well-being of students, workers, visitors, and residents by increasing the amount of green space and improving air quality. The Green Infrastructure Consultancy has been commissioned to conduct a report setting out the strategy for the project with several recommended projects for implementation.