They Lowered City Temperature by Planting 880,000 Trees in Concrete
The city of Medellín, Colombia, sandwiched between concrete and asphalt, achieved a miraculous success with its ecological transformation initiated in 2016. Thanks to the 880,000 trees and 2.5 million plants planted across the city, the temperature dropped by as much as 3°C in some areas, air quality improved, and nature made a comeback to the city.
Situated within the Aburrá Valley and surrounded by towering mountains, Medellín has long been grappling with serious "urban heat island" issues due to its geographic location, inadequate air circulation, and excessive urbanization.
According to research, in the city where the temperature has risen by an average of 2°C every decade due to urban growth between 1940 and 2012, the municipality and local community have jointly implemented a groundbreaking project.
As part of the "Green Corridors" project launched in 2016, previously disconnected green spaces were interconnected into a vast ecological network.
Massive Reforestation: Over 880,000 trees and 2.5 million smaller plants were planted along more than 30 corridors, including avenues, boulevards, and riverbanks.
Permeable Soil Surfaces: Asphalt and concrete coverings were replaced with permeable soil that absorbs rainwater and prevents heat accumulation, along with plant coverings such as shrubs, vertical gardens, and roof interventions.
Temperature Drop: Thanks to the natural cooling effect of tree shades and plants, the citywide temperature decreased by 2°C, and even up to 3°C in the most densely urbanized areas.
The project's only gain was not just the drop in temperatures.
Trees, acting as living filters amidst concrete masses, significantly reduce air pollution that exceeds the World Health Organization (WHO) limits by absorbing dust, carbon dioxide, and harmful particles.
Green corridors, bringing silence and clean air, have facilitated the return of local fauna (bird and animal species) to the city. Streets once dominated by vehicle traffic and hot air have now transformed into vibrant living spaces where city dwellers socialize and breathe.
This eco-friendly move by Medellín has not gone unnoticed in the realm of global climate diplomacy:
It clinched first place in the 'Natural Cooling' category at the 2019 Ashden Awards, which were presented during London Climate Action Week.
It bagged the C40 Bloomberg Philanthropies award in the 'Resilient Future We Want' category.
Representatives of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) hailed the project as one of the most successful examples of tree-centric urban planning in the world.
While Ashden jury member Glenn PearceOroz praised the resolute leadership exhibited by the local government of Medellín, experts emphasize that this project provides one of the most tangible lessons applicable to all global cities battling climate change.
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