Nature, Environment and Espoo fair for residents, organisations and city employees
The City of Espoo and the Greater Matinkylä residents’ associations will organise a fair around the theme Nature, Environment and Espoo in November. The purpose of the event is to provide an opportunity for open dialogue between local residents, organisations and city employees. The fair will be held on Tuesday 26 November 2024 on the Stage at the Iso Omena Library.
The Espoo community is built by its residents, and the city environment provides the framework for living. This principle is central to Espoo’s participation model, which aims to strengthen residents’ own agency and ensure their voices are heard.
Esko Uotila, chairperson of Asukkaiden Espoo, contacted Espoo’s new team for the promotion of health, wellbeing and participation, which also initiated a dialogue with Matinkylä residents’ associations. These discussions gave rise to the idea of a local fair, providing a space for interaction between residents and the city.
The purpose of the fair is not only to create opportunities for dialogue but also to highlight the many strengths and successes within the city.
– It is human nature to notice things that do not work or are flawed. This trait has been important for our survival and development, says Wellbeing Manager Taru Ikäheimonen. – At the same time, it is essential to pause and recognise how many things are functioning well and going right. Such thinking can have a positive effect on our wellbeing, as what we pay attention to gains strength. However, this does not mean that problems should be swept under the carpet, but that we should also look at what works.
Nature and the environment – theme proposed by residents’ associations
The theme of the fair – Nature, Environment and Espoo – was chosen based on the wishes of residents’ associations. Resident surveys have shown that nature and a green environment are important values for Espoo residents.
– The Urban Environment Sector does tremendous work for our parks, and Sports and Exercise Services maintains many natural areas where residents can go for recreation. The design and planning of recreational areas also play a significant role in shaping the urban environment, Ikäheimonen explains.
The fair will also highlight the valuable work done by local nature organisations. For example, Espoon Latu ja Polku ry and Espoon Ympäristöyhdistys will be there to present their activities. Residents’ associations that actively engage the community will also present their work.
The City of Espoo will have representatives from the team for the promotion of health, wellbeing and participation, the City Planning Department, the Public Works Department, the Environmental Protection Unit and the Security and Preparedness Unit attending the event.
The Nature, Environment and Espoo fair will be held on Tuesday 26 November 2024, 17:00–19:00, on the Stage at the Iso Omena Library. The event is free and open to all. Welcome!
Read more about the event: Themed fair in Matinkylä: Nature, Environment and Espoo