Urban ecosystems are increasingly affected by anthropogenic pressures that result in biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. Nevertheless, urban biodiversity plays a fundamental role in maintaining ecosystem functions and delivering benefits to human well-being. Enhancing public understanding of urban ecology is therefore essential to foster awareness of the interconnections between biodiversity, ecosystem health, and quality of life.

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have emerged as effective approaches to address environmental and social challenges while simultaneously creating opportunities for citizens to engage with nature and develop pro-environmental attitudes and behaviours. Within this framework, the international citizen science project UrbanBEE employs targeted NbS – specifically designed bee hotels – to support and monitor solitary bees in urban environments.

In Turin (Italy), more than 180 volunteers have received and are actively participating in monitoring bee hotels nest occupancy, contributing to data collection while engaging in a hands-on environmental learning experience. Through a dedicated outreach and dissemination programme, participants are encouraged to explore the ecological role of pollinators and the importance of biodiversity in cities.

The project investigates patterns of solitary bee occupancy and associated biodiversity indicators across urban neighbourhoods characterized by different socio-economic and environmental conditions. Ongoing analyses, based on citizen science-derived bee occupancy data and integrated with ecological, spatial, and socio-economic information, aim to explore how biodiversity and access to urban nature are distributed across the city, and how this may influence the delivery of ecosystem benefits to different communities. The findings are expected to contribute to biodiversity conservation, environmental equity, and sustainable urban planning.

Beyond its scientific outcomes, UrbanBEE highlights the potential of citizen-oriented NbS as tools for environmental education and public engagement. By directly involving citizens in biodiversity monitoring, the project promotes ecological literacy, strengthens human–nature connections, and encourages individual responsibility toward urban ecosystems, contributing to the development of more sustainable and resilient societies.