Urban greening is something that cannot be ignored. A world with lots of greenery is now replaced by a world that is mostly covered with concrete which affects the ecosystem. Since the consequences of climate are very much visible, it is important to go back to a greener world. The world is getting damaged by the changing climate and it is also affecting humans, animals and plants. Every day, the world is learning about climate change. This had led to incorporating greenery increasingly in urban planning.
The importance of urban greening
Nowadays, the importance of urban greening has been realised by many. What was first parks and trees in the streets, urban greening in innovative forms like living walls and green roofs are becoming increasingly popular. Green roofs and living walls are applied to numerous buildings such as office buildings and public buildings but also in residential areas, vertical green is more and more implemented. The aims of urban greenery might be different but on the whole, it contributes to improving the lives of humans, animals and plants. Benefits of urban greening:
– Improves air quality
– Reduces noise pollution
– Stimulates biodiversity
– Retains rainwater
– Cools and regulates the environment
– Adds aesthetic value
The effects
Architects and urban planners have been exploring ways to implement urban greening when designing new buildings and new areas, both for business and residential purposes. When building, the future is also taken into account as well as the immediate use of a building. By incorporating greenery, these buildings contribute to the environment where these buildings are located and to the people who are using these buildings. Urban greening contributes to producing oxygen while it also absorbs carbon dioxide, contributing to the climate outdoor, but also indoor. Not only does greenery in urban areas contribute to people, but it also contributes to animals, insects, etc., thus contributing to biodiversity. Living walls and green roofs provide a living habitat and food to birds, bees and butterflies. In addition, urban greening helps with combatting the urban heat island effect, which is the effect of the temperature in urban areas being higher than in its surrounding areas. This is caused by reduced natural landscapes in urban areas. By implementing green in urban areas, this effect can also be reduced.
