Urban Green Ghent

Urban Green Ghent: A Best Practice in Climate Resilience

As cities around the world grapple with the mounting challenges of climate change, Ghent, Belgium, stands out as a shining example of innovation and determination. Through its transformative “Urban Green Ghent” initiative, the city demonstrates how urban areas can adapt to increasing climate risks while enhancing liveability and biodiversity.

Turning Pavement into Opportunity

A cornerstone of Ghent’s strategy is its ambitious plan to replace 15% of the city’s pavement with green spaces. This bold move addresses pressing climate challenges such as heatwaves, droughts, and recurrent flooding. By removing hard surfaces in public squares, parks, gardens, and streets, the city enables rainwater to naturally infiltrate the soil. This sponge-like effect mitigates the impact of heavy rainfall, helping to protect the city from flash floods.

Watercourses and Façade Gardens

Ghent’s commitment to a greener, more climate-resilient urban environment extends beyond de-paving. The city has reopened its watercourses, allowing natural waterways to flow freely once again. This not only improves water management but also enhances the aesthetic and ecological value of the city.

Moreover, the promotion of façade gardens encourages residents to transform walls and small spaces into vibrant pockets of greenery. This community-driven approach fosters engagement and underscores the vital role citizens play in creating a sustainable city.

Adapting to Climate Risks

The initiatives under “Urban Green Ghent” are designed to tackle the growing risks of climate change. Heatwaves are mitigated through the cooling effect of increased vegetation, while green spaces enhance air quality and provide shaded areas, making the city more comfortable for residents and visitors. During periods of heavy rain, green infrastructure helps absorb excess water, reducing the strain on urban drainage systems.

Enhancing Liveability and Biodiversity

Beyond its climate benefits, Ghent’s green transition transforms the city into a more enjoyable and healthier place to live. Greening efforts create attractive outdoor spaces, improve biodiversity, and foster a stronger connection between residents and their natural environment.

A Model for Other Municipalities

Ghent’s comprehensive approach to urban greening offers valuable lessons for cities worldwide. Its success demonstrates the power of local government to lead in climate adaptation and resilience. By investing in sustainable infrastructure and engaging the community, Ghent is charting a path toward a future where urban areas are better equipped to face the realities of climate change.