Antwerp, Belgium – In a bid to foster urban greenery and community engagement, the city of Antwerp has launched a free-tree scheme as part of its Neighbourhood in Bloom initiative. Encouraging residents to embrace urban gardening, Antwerp is distributing 2,000 trees to those with available garden space until September 30.
The initiative aims to combat urban heat and enhance environmental quality by offering 20 tree varieties suited for urban environments. Residents undergo a brief questionnaire assessing space and sunlight availability to determine the most suitable tree species for their area.
Antwerp hopes this endeavor will cool the city during summers, enhance air quality, and provide habitats for local wildlife. The initiative, first introduced last summer with a verdant tram display, garnered public attention and support.
Under the Neighbourhood in Bloom program, Antwerp council extends support to aspiring urban gardeners with complimentary “facade gardens.” Residents in the central district can request plants, hanging garlands, and trees from the council, which also provides financial aid for rainwater collection barrels to sustain the gardens.
Building on the success of 2022, where residents established over 200 facade gardens, 170 tree areas, and 100 garlands, the scheme reflects Antwerp’s commitment to greener urban spaces.
Installation of these gardens involves cooperation between residents and district councils, with the latter handling pavement lifting, soil laying, and initial planting. Residents are responsible for maintaining the greenery thereafter.
Urban gardening offers numerous benefits beyond aesthetics. It helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduces pollution, and attracts wildlife, fostering biodiversity. Additionally, spending just a few minutes in an urban garden can significantly improve mental well-being.
Antwerp’s initiative underscores the importance of community involvement in creating sustainable, livable cities, promoting a greener future for urban environments.