Urban Ecosystem Services in a Rapidly Urbanizing World: Scaling up Nature's Benefits from Single Trees to Thriving Urban Forests.

This document is a conclusion to a special issue on the importance of urban ecosystem services and sustainable urban development. It emphasizes the need to prioritize sustainability in urban planning and development to enhance the wellbeing of urban residents, protect biodiversity, and mitigate environmental degradation. The document highlights the value of green infrastructure in creating resilient cities and promoting social cohesion and equity. It also discusses the potential of poplar trees in enhancing urban green spaces and offers insights into the urgent task of scaling up nature's benefits in the face of rapid urbanization and climate change. Overall, the document emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding of the value of nature in urban settings and the integration of sustainable practices in urban development for the prosperity of urban communities worldwide. [Extracted from the article]