The city of Jaén is enhancing its residents' connection to nature through an innovative initiative called 'Jaén Verde y Conectada: Geoparques Urbanos.' This project utilizes technology to showcase the city's botanical diversity across ten parks and green spaces, managed by the Special Employment Center (CEE).
Central to the project are interactive maps that identify various plant species. Citizens can access this botanical information by scanning QR codes, which initiate self-guided educational tours. These digital guides allow users to identify flora, learn about their characteristics, and discover interesting facts, transforming park visits into engaging learning experiences and fostering a greater appreciation for the local environment.
This initiative aligns with a broader trend in urban planning that emphasizes integrating green infrastructure into city landscapes. Discussions at the 51st National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens in May 2025 highlighted the importance of reimagining urban models to support human health and ecological sustainability, with green infrastructure playing a key role in boosting biodiversity and well-being. The Spanish Association of Public Parks and Gardens (AEPJP) supports such efforts through programs like 'Hablando en Verde,' which promotes dialogue and training in urban green space management.
Interactive maps are proving to be valuable tools for urban planning and environmental engagement, offering a dynamic way to visualize data and improve public understanding of spatial relationships. Similar to Barcelona's comprehensive Green Infrastructure and Biodiversity Plan, which contributed to its recognition as 'European Forest City 2022,' Jaén's project aims to increase public awareness and participation in environmental initiatives. The 'Jaén Verde y Conectada' project has cataloged 99 unique botanical species across its ten featured parks, providing a tangible resource for environmental education and contributing to the city's ecological enhancement and citizen engagement with nature.