Florence goes green: 30 million euros for the city’s ecological revolution

The initiative seeks to recover and expand green areas, create new gardens, increase the usability of open spaces, reduce impermeable surfaces, repurpose green spaces, and strengthen urban forestry, building on earlier investments exceeding 10 million euros, which have already delivered completed projects across the city.

The 90 projects will be spaced over three years, 38 of which will be completed by early 2028 with an investment of 13 million euros, 11.7 million of which will be financed through the state Piani Urbani Integrati (Integrated Urban Plan) fund. Through these measures, the city prepares to combat the effects of climate change and offer Florentines areas of high ecological and social value. A key priority is reducing impermeable surfaces such as asphalt, replacing them with permeable, natural materials that improve rainwater absorption and help lower urban temperatures. At least 10,000 square meters of hard surfaces will be removed as part of this “depaving” strategy, directly addressing the urban heat island effect.

Urban forestry also plays a central role. With 2.2 million euros dedicated to planting trees, the city aims to significantly expand its canopy, particularly in densely built areas most vulnerable to extreme heat. This increase in vegetation will enhance air quality, provide shade, and contribute to biodiversity. Complementing this effort is the goal of ensuring that every resident has access to green space within 300 meters of their home, a benchmark that underscores the plan’s emphasis on equity and accessibility.

The redevelopment of existing parks, gardens and squares is another major component. Approximately 1.65 million euros will be spent on maintaining and upgrading established green areas, including historically significant sites. An additional 5 million euros is earmarked for expanding and creating new green spaces, transforming squares into cooler, more inviting environments with added trees, pergolas and social areas. Smaller-scale interventions, such as playgrounds and sports facilities, will receive 2.7 million euros in upgrades, enhancing their usability and appeal.

A defining feature of the Iris Plan is its collaborative approach. Local neighborhoods have been actively involved in shaping the projects, ensuring that interventions reflect community needs and priorities. This participatory process not only strengthens the plan’s relevance but also fosters a sense of shared ownership among residents.