The International Day against Climate Change is more than a date on the calendar: it is an opportunity for the entire world to stop, even if only for a few seconds, to reflect on the urgent need to confront the environmental challenges that loom over us. It has become one of the biggest threats to our planet and its inhabitants.
Although this anniversary has not been officially proclaimed by the United Nations (UN), it is important to highlight that this organization supports the initiative to promote actions aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change. In fact, the International Day against Climate Change aligns closely with one of the most significant Sustainable Development Goals, number 13: Climate Action.
It is a time when we must stop and consider the magnitude of the problems we face: constantly rising temperatures, extreme weather events, the accelerated loss of biodiversity and the threat to the sustainability of our ecosystems.
Recent CSIC studies warn that climate change “amplifies half of pathogenic diseases” such as colds, flu, Covid-19, Ebola, etc., which has a great impact on human health.
A day, then, that reminds us that we cannot allow ourselves to be passive spectators of this crisis.
How urban green infrastructure can help stop it
In the midst of these environmental concerns, it is necessary to restore the city-nature balance. Through urban naturation we manage to recover the space that nature has lost. The incorporation of elements such as vertical gardens, landscaped roofs or green corridors generate a strong connection between urban spaces and nature.
In this context, vertical gardens emerge as a contribution of hope and a way to “fight” with actions against climate change.
They are much more than a decorative element in our cities and buildings; They are a tangible manifestation of our commitment to sustainability.
A change in air quality
Air quality is an issue that affects urban areas around the world. Air pollution represents a serious risk to people’s health. Vertical gardens, through the absorption of particles and the production of oxygen, contribute to the significant improvement of air quality.
Carbon footprint reduction
Reducing carbon emissions is a priority goal globally, and vertical gardens play a fundamental role in achieving this goal. By absorbing carbon dioxide, they directly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This action is essential to mitigate the effects of climate change and move towards achieving sustainability goals.
An example of this contribution is the project to install the largest vertical garden in Europe on a section of the M30 in Madrid.
In this large-scale project, 3,250 square meters of surface area have been intervened, covering the concrete walls. with 23 highly durable plant species and with a notable capacity to absorb polluting agents.
This initiative in the city is an important advance in environmental terms.
The project contributes to cushion the heat island effectwhile reducing emissions from road traffic and minimizing noise pollution.