Paris’s Green Initiatives by iBestTravel

As part of its efforts to make greener, almost eight hectares of natural spaces have opened in different areas of the city. The aim of the initiative is to promote “greening” and offer people new spaces for relaxation or games.

Last year, the city announced plans for urban forests at four major landmarks in Paris, as it is relatively short of vegetation compared to other significant European cities. Currently, only 9.5% of the city is designated to parks and gardens. However, eco-conscious mayor Anne Hidalgo is determined to make a sustainable impact through the introduction of parks and green spaces. In her essay in Time magazine, Hidalgo articulates her vision for Paris as a green city where everyone can breathe fresh air and share open spaces.

The new green areas enhance biodiversity and include fruit trees and plants native to France. Notably, the Jardin Élisabeth Boselli Porte de Versailles is a beautifully landscaped garden that provides a relaxing environment in the bustling area hosting Paris Expo Porte de Versailles and the Dôme de Paris. The garden features pedestrian and cycling routes amid its cultivated fields and meadows, and it is named after Élisabeth Boselli, the first female fighter pilot born in Paris in 1914.

The Hans and Sophie Scholl garden is situated on the borders of Saint-Ouen and Clichy-la-Garenne, named after the German siblings who courageously opposed the Nazi regime and ultimately sacrificed their lives. Additionally, a new garden located at the heart of the Paul Bourget urban project will provide fitness areas, children’s play zones, and a bowling area upon completion. Mayor Anne Hidalgo emphasizes, “Wherever possible, in streets, squares, and playgrounds, we are removing asphalt to give space back to nature. With tree-planting programs, genuine urban forests will serve as the lungs for neighborhoods throughout the city.”