- +1.9 to +4.6
Projected temperature increase of +1.9oC to +4.6oC for the region by the end of the 21st century
- 10 000m squared
of soil progressively unsealed
- 200
trees and shrubs planted
- 2023-2028
Implementation timeline
Replicability
Learn from Aix-Marseille and understand how cities can restore nature while reducing heat and flood risks
Best suited for
This demonstrator is particularly suitable for replication by local and regional public authorities, notably municipalities, metropolitan authorities, water agencies and urban planning bodies, as they are well placed to embed NBS in land-use planning, storm water management, biodiversity strategies and climate adaptation policies. The model is particularly relevant for Mediterranean and other climate-vulnerable cities seeking to reduce urban heat, manage storm water naturally and increase biodiversity through NBS.
Stakeholders' role
The demonstrator was developed through close collaboration between Aix-Marseille University and the City of Marseille, with the university campuses serving as pilot sites. All regional stakeholders (public authorities, private sector, local associations) have been involved in the project from the outset in order to optimize the wider deployment of the solutions across highly urbanised areas.
Built-in scalable solutions
The project provides a practical framework for integrating soil unsealing, microforests, bioswales, green corridors and porous asphalt implementation into urban planning. Because these interventions are modular, low-tech and adaptable to local conditions, they can be replicated progressively in cities of different sizes while delivering multiple climate resilience benefits.
Funding pathways
The demonstrator was developed through the Horizon Europe-funded CARDIMED project under the EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change and a grant from the water agency. The successful implementation of these NBS can help cities mobilise additional investment from regional, national and EU funding programmes, while also creating opportunities for public–private partnerships in urban regeneration, water management and green infrastructure.
