Urban BiomeTools for a greener built environment
We build tools that help you understand and improve your local environment. See where nature is needed most. Map what's already there. Take action.
The problem
The built environment faces multiple challenges:
- Insect populations down 60% since 2004
- Air pollution causing 30,000+ early deaths per year
- Urban heat islands 5-10°C hotter than countryside
- Paved surfaces increasing flood risk
- Construction damaging tree roots and reducing biodiversity
These problems overlap. The same solutions — trees, green space, better planning — can address several at once.
But environmental data is scattered. It's hard to see the full picture or know where to act.
We bring this data together into tools anyone can use.
How we work
We build small, focused tools. Each one does one thing well. Together they form a toolkit you can use to understand and improve your environment.
Mostly free
Most tools are free to use. They use public data from government and satellites. Some professional tools for developers are paid, which helps fund the free tools for communities.
Starting local
We're based in Bristol. We're building tools that work here first, then expanding to other cities. This helps us learn what actually works.
Who it's for
Councils
Find where to focus tree planting and green space projects. See which areas face the most challenges. Track what you've done.
Developers
Check environmental conditions before you build. Find sites that need biodiversity improvements. Show the benefits of your project.
Community groups
Map what's in your neighbourhood. Find spots for new trees or gardens. Get the data you need for funding bids.
Tools
A growing toolkit. Each tool does one thing well.
Explore risk hotspots
See where environmental risks overlap. Find areas where flood, heat, and pollution thresholds are exceeded.
Use this toolMap green infrastructure sightings
Map green infrastructure in your area. Add photos of street trees, planters and green walls. See what others have found.
Use this toolCheck root protection
See where tree roots may affect construction. Shows Root Protection Areas based on BS 5837 guidelines for Bristol's recorded trees.
Use this toolPreview trees
See how different tree species look in augmented reality. Place trees at different stages of maturity.
Use this toolTeam
We're based in Bristol. We bring together experience in technology, construction, and making cities greener.
Reuben Forster
Co-Founder, Technology & Data
Reuben builds tools that turn environmental data into maps. He has 15 years in construction and landscaping. He now writes code and works with public data.
Manon Dangelser
Co-Founder, Strategy & Communication
Manon shapes our strategy and direction. She has 10 years working on buildings and cities. She helps turn urban problems into practical solutions.
Contact
We're interested in partnerships with local authorities, developers and community groups.
- info@urbanbiome.uk
- Location
- Bristol, UK