Brazil pushes forest‑integrated cities as Anápolis converts former landfill into park

Researchers highlighted at the 3rd International Transmutar Seminar in Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, urged Brazilian cities to incorporate forests into urban planning. Italian botanist Stefano Mancuso introduced the concept of “fitópolis,” proposing cities that function like living organisms with extensive vegetation, efficient public transport and no combustion‑engine vehicles. He argued that such forest‑integrated designs could mitigate climate change and improve urban resilience, citing examples from ancient Amazonian settlements.

In Anápolis, Goiás, the former illegal landfill known as the “buracão” has been transformed into the Parque da Liberdade. Over 14 years, restoration work restored the Córrego Catingueiro spring, planted trees, and created leisure areas, turning a degraded site into a popular public space that enhances community well‑being and local commerce.

Both initiatives illustrate a growing Brazilian focus on restoring and integrating natural ecosystems within urban environments to address environmental challenges and improve quality of life.