On the occasion of the International Day of Forests of 21 March 2025, the KilometroverdeParma project is established as a virtuous example of how trees and innovation can transform the face of modern cities. Urban reforestation proves to be a fundamental strategy to deal with climate change, improve the quality of life and promote environmental and economic sustainability
The important role of forests for the planet
Forests are very important for life on earth. They provide food, fuel and shelter to about 1.6 billion people. They offer fundamental benefits such as clean air, water and climate regulation, and contribute to environmental resilience, mitigating the effects of natural disasters. However, the deforestation and changes in the use of soil are responsible for 17% of the global emissions of CO₂, highlighting the urgency of sustainable forests management to counter global warming.
KilometroverdeParma: an urban forestry workshop
The KilometroverdeParma project, started in 2020, represents an innovative model of urban reforestation. Structured as a forestry consortium, it represents a virtuous example of collaboration between public and private, actively involving citizens, businesses and institutions in the ambitious objective of converting any space available in permanent woods and green areas. The project offers two adhesion methods: as ordinary members, who provide land for planting, or as supporting members, who financially support the initiative. Currently, 116 members contributed to the planting of 80 thousand trees and shrubs, with the aim of exceeding 100 thousand in the coming years.
Urban reforestation as an investment for the future
According to Antonio Mortali, technical director of the Consortium, the International Forest Day must not only be a symbolic anniversary but a daily reminder of the importance of urban green.
«In Parma we have shown it – The director continues – When a community joins a concrete reforestation project, the benefits multiply exponentially. We are not only talking about numbers – which are also impressive with our 80 thousand among trees and shrubs planted – but of a real change of mentality. Every tree we plant is a strong sign of foresight, an investment in the future of our cities and children. Our model shows that environmental sustainability can go hand in hand with the economic one, creating value for the entire community. For this reason we invite everyone, from individual citizens to large companies, to become protagonists of this green revolution. Because every day is the right time to plant a tree».
The economic and environmental benefits of green areas
A study conducted by Vsafespin-off of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart of Parma, evaluated the economic benefits of the ecosystem services generated by urban forestry. In the Molinetto district, for example, the transformation of 0.8 hectares into urban forest will lead to a reduction in noise pollution, an improvement in the urban context and an increase in the value of the properties, with an estimated economic return of up to 100 times the initial investment.
An equally significant impact is foreseen for the area of the San Leonardo ring road in Parma and the Park of life of Busseto, where the creation of 4.5 hectares of new green will favor a more efficient management of rainwater, will strengthen the absorption capacity of the CO₂ and contribute to the reduction of atmospheric pollutants. These interventions will not only strengthen the environmental resilience of the territory, but will also offer new spaces for the sociality and well -being of people.
A replicable model of urban reforestation
The PEFC certification, in the obtaining phase, will guarantee sustainable management of the forests, making KilometroverdeParma a model replicable in other Italian and European cities. The project shows that urban forestry is not only an environmental choice, but an economically advantageous investment, capable of improving the quality of life, promoting responsible lifestyles and strengthening social cohesion.
