More greenery in the city Geplaatst op: 23 February 2026

What petrification means for the city

That greenery is disappearing is not an isolated fact; it is a development that directly affects how a city functions. Research by Wageningen University & Research shows that paving in urban areas leads to a marked increase in heat stress. In neighborhoods where little vegetation is present, temperatures on hot days rise well above average, especially in areas with dark roofs and little shade. These so-called “heat islands” cause discomfort, but also pose a real health risk to the elderly and vulnerable residents.

There is also the growing risk of flooding. In petrified areas, rainwater cannot drain as well, resulting in overloaded sewers, flooded streets and damage to infrastructure. The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) stresses that greening is essential to make cities resilient to extreme precipitation, drought and temperature rises. Not to mention biodiversity: every square meter of lost green space also means loss of habitat for birds, insects and other species that depend on urban ecosystems.

Adding greenery without taking up space

There is good news, however. Creating greener cities does not always require additional space, existing urban space can also be used more intelligently. Green facades and green roofs are a strong example of this approach. They make use of vertical and elevated surfaces that often remain unused within the urban environment, such as bare apartment facades, blind walls on parking structures and the flat roofs of shops, offices and commercial buildings.

What makes these solutions particularly powerful is their multifunctional character. A green facade not only improves the visual quality of the streetscape, but also actively contributes to cooling both buildings and the surrounding urban environment. Vegetation evaporates water, captures airborne particulate matter and provides shelter and nesting opportunities for insects and birds.

Green roofs function as natural buffers within the urban landscape. They absorb rainwater, slow down surface water runoff and improve the thermal performance of buildings. At the same time, they strengthen urban biodiversity by creating valuable habitat for plants, insects and building-dwelling species.

The benefits of green

• Reducing heat stress
  Green facades and roofs significantly reduce the surface temperature of buildings. Plants evaporate water, providing natural cooling in the city.
• Water buffering during peak showers
  Green roofs retain rainwater and delay its discharge. This reduces the burden on the sewer system and reduces the risk of flooding. Green facades also contribute to the evaporation of captured rainwater.
• Strengthening Biodiversity
  Native plantings provide food, nesting and shelter for insects, birds and other animals. When combined with integrated features (such as nesting boxes), a full-fledged urban habitat is created.
• Insulation and energy efficiency
  Green walls and roofs help insulate buildings. They retain heat in winter and repel heat in summer. This provides direct gains in energy consumption and living comfort.
• Better air quality
  Leaves filter particulate matter from the air and absorb CO₂. As a result, greening contributes to cleaner air in densely populated areas.
• Positive impact on health and well-being
  RIVM research shows that people in green environments experience less stress, feel healthier and exercise outside more often. Green not only makes a street more beautiful, but also more livable.