From Madrid to Berlin, from Paris to Budapest – scientists and planners agree that trees, trees and yet more trees can help make European cities more comfortable – even more liveable – in the coming years, as global warming becomes increasingly severe.

But concrete paving, high-rise buildings, historic squares and underground car parks are hostile environments for trees, and it is difficult for
administrative authorities to plant more trees. In fact, many EU cities have less greenery now than they did a century ago.

“It is a huge challenge,” notes Christophe Najdovski (Christophe Najdovski), Deputy Mayor of Paris in charge of greening and public spaces. “We know that with a sufficient number of trees, we can lower urban summer temperatures by as much as 8°C. They are essentially natural air conditioners. But planting them is not always a simple task.”