Swiss cities expand green spaces to improve urban climate

Swiss municipalities are increasing urban greenery to address rising temperatures, dense construction, and growing populations. Projects include new parks, rooftop gardens, green façades, and community gardens, all aimed at cooling built areas, storing rainwater, enhancing biodiversity and providing recreational spaces.

The “sponge city” approach is being adopted, with permeable pavements, rainwater basins, and vegetated strips designed to manage heavy rain and drought. By 2026, such green oases are expected to become a standard element of Swiss urban development, contributing to higher quality of life and climate resilience.

These initiatives are supported by national planning guidelines that stress climate‑adapted cities, promoting shade‑providing trees, native plantings, and sustainable mobility within greener public spaces.