The Minett UNESCO Biosphere is currently working on two initiatives to combat the impending consequences of rising temperatures caused by climate change. The recent completion of the urban climate analysis of the PRO-SUD region has confirmed the implementation of a pilot project in Differdange as part of the European Interreg ‘Cool Neighbourhoods’ project.

As temperatures rise, cities are at an increasing risk of becoming urban heat islands. If temperatures continue to rise, these heat islands multiply due to concrete surfaces, making our neighbourhoods increasingly uncomfortable. This finding is among the most significant and pressing arising from our urban climate analysis for all municipalities within our biosphere reserve. In light of this challenge, our region has joined an innovative European initiative: Cool Neighbourhoods.

 

A Consortium to Rethink Urban Spaces

Imagine neighbourhoods where combating the heat emanating from buildings constitutes a collective challenge. The Cool Neighbourhoods initiative embodies this perspective, uniting 12 international partners from the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Luxembourg. It stands out from conventional approaches to combating urban heat by emphasizing unique local factors. The project has chosen nine pilot sites, which represent three different types of neighbourhoods: inner-city dense areas, green hubs, and economically disadvantaged districts.

More than 30,000 m² of public space in nine cities across north-west Europe will be transformed into more resilient urban habitats.

Differdange: Adaptation Measures Confirmed by Bioclimatic Analysis

In the Minett UNESCO Biosphere, Differdange will lead this urban transformation. The approach involves experimenting with an action plan to combat heat stress in the town centre. Turning an ecological challenge into an urban opportunity. In the coming years, climate change is expected to significantly exacerbate heat stress in this area.

To address this issue, a green wall will be installed on the school’s main façade, with financial support from the Interreg ‘Cool Neighbourhoods’ project. This initiative goes beyond mere aesthetics; it functions as a vital ecological framework, contributing to the reduction of local temperatures and the enhancement of air quality. It also serves as a platform for educating future generations about environmental concerns.

In conjunction with the biosphere reserve, we will help the city create an environmental education program centred around the green wall. Thermal sensors will be used to foster a deeper understanding of urban warming dynamics among the public.

Beyond Cooling: A Vision for the Future

The ‘Cool Neighbourhoods’ initiative not only addresses the issue of heat, but also offers a comprehensive and transformative approach to urban development. Its goal is to create cities where people can thrive during heatwaves, while also promoting biodiversity. This aligns with the key recommendations of scientists conducting urban climate research.

To improve the quality of life in urban areas, the integration of greenery and new water features into future regional urban planning must be a priority. With the completion of the bioclimatic analysis project and the launch of the climate adaptation project ‘Cool Neighbourhoods,’ the vision of a resilient city can become a reality soon.

The impact of the proposed green wall in Differdange, scheduled for construction next year, will be studied by the Interreg collaboration. The results of this research will be shared with the other ten municipalities in the Minett UNESCO Biosphere, empowering them to implement urban climate adaptation measures that will enhance the living standards of their residents.