A strip of vegetation and trees next to a road within a city

What is a green corridor?

On the road to sustainable cities

The commitment to the care for the environment has driven the appearance of different projects that point towards a more sustainable future. Among them, green corridors stand out, an innovative proposal that stands as a solution to improve sustainable urban mobility and promote the physical and psychological well-being of citizens. These nature trails represent a change of direction towards a more harmonious coexistence with the environment.

What is a green corridor?

A green corridor is a narrow strip of urban land designed with varied vegetation and different species of trees. Its purpose is to act as an extension of natural areas and connect green spaces in a city that would otherwise remain isolated.

These green corridors are safe and pleasant routes so pedestrians can walk and enjoy nature in an urban environment. They also offer cyclists and scooter users suitable spaces to ride without any issues. These green areas promote the use of non-polluting means of transport and contribute to reducing vehicle congestion.

As well as the improvement in biodiversity, they are also presented as recreational and relaxation places for the community. The parks and leisure areas installed in these corridors offer opportunities for people to meet, take part in social and cultural events, and enjoy several activities outdoors. It is common to see families spending rest time together or people doing exercise.

What characteristics does it have?

The architecture of a green corridor must meet certain characteristics to be considered a green corridor. The main ones are:

Vegetation diversity

These corridors are mainly made up of natural elements, promoting the existence of a wide variety of vegetation that contributes to sustainable development.

Multifunctional

Green corridors act as multifunctional elements, which means that in the same space, environmental activities can coexist alongside sports, social, and cultural events.

Connectivity and flow of people

One of its key functions is to facilitate sustainable mobility, allowing a fluid connection with other green areas due to its linear configuration.

Benefits of green corridors in the city

Promotes non-polluting mobility

These green areas promote the use of sustainable and non-polluting transport, such as bikes and scooters, thus promoting an environmentally-friendly urban mobility.

Promotes animal and plant biodiversity

Green corridors in urban areas favor biodiversity. Providing habitats and shelter for diverse species contributes to conserving nature in the city.

A street thermometer that displays time and temperature

Reduction of heat island effect

Green corridors play an essential role in urban heat mitigation. They reduce temperatures thanks to the cooling effect provided by the trees and the reduction of asphalt.

A miniature of the Earth in green with a tree and a cloud above it

Reduction of pollution

These green spaces play a crucial role in the reduction of air and noise pollution. They improve air quality and create calmer and healthier environments for citizens.

Improves people's quality of life

Green corridors provide spaces for physical activity and favor mental well-being and disconnection. Contact with nature also benefits emotional health and personal balance.

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Examples of green corridors

The trend towards a development of sustainable cities that are environmentally friendly has led cities from all over the world to foster the creation of green corridors as a solution to enrich their urban spaces. Some examples in Spain:

Vitoria

Vitoria received the title of European Green Capital in 2012, thanks to its innovative Anillo Verde (Green Ring) project. This is made up of a series of green spaces and forest areas strategically arranged in a circle around the city, providing a favorable environment for hiking and cycling, as well as for the well-being of citizens. The convergence of natural areas in this urban configuration has had a significant impact on the improvement of air quality by providing fresh, clean air to breathe, and in the reduction of noise, creating quieter and more relaxing spaces in the urban environment.

Valencia

Another example of the commitment to sustainability is in the city of Valencia, which will be recognized as European Green Capital in 2024. Its green corridor, the Jardín del Turia, stretches more than 12 kilometers and covers more than 120 hectares. This urban park has become a place where citizens can connect with nature, walk, do outdoor sports activities, and enjoy cultural events, all in a natural environment.

Madrid

Another prominent case is in the Spanish capital. The green corridor of Madrid Río has provided a green lung and revitalized biodiversity in the metropolitan area. Stretching along several kilometers of the Manzanares River, more than 33,000 trees have been planted in this corridor since its completion in 2011. Residents use this park to practice sports, enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides, and participate in various socio-cultural events that take place in the surrounding area.

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