Trees and climate change

Climate change is leading to ever more frequent extreme weather phenomena, such as long droughts or torrential rains, which directly affect the green areas of Barcelona and test the resistance of urban trees.
The Municipal Institute of Parks and Gardens of Barcelona, ​​in collaboration with the Fondazione Capellino (the foundation promoting and financing the project) and CREAF, has signed an agreement to study the environmental benefits of different tree species. The study will be carried out through the compilation and evaluation of data on the ground, with the aim of identifying which species and types of soil show greater resilience and capacity to adapt to the urban environment of Barcelona.    

What does the project consist of?

The new climate reality resulting from global warming means that urban trees have to face increasingly adverse conditions, which can compromise both their ability to provide essential environmental services, such as shade or space for leisure, as well as their own survival. Faced with this scenario, it is essential to rethink the selection of tree species and review the planting and maintenance methods used in the urban environment.

The aim of the project is to analyse to what extent two new tree species – Zelkova serrata and Pistacia chinensis – can adapt to the urban conditions of Barcelona and contribute to the provision of essential ecosystem services. The two selected species have been chosen taking into account various characteristics such as climate and environmental resistance, benefits to the ecosystem and sustainable management, with the aim of guaranteeing their successful integration into the urban environment. They are also noted for their aesthetic and social value, and their low allergenic potential, which favours the quality of life of citizens.

This evaluation aims to serve as a basis for encouraging their incorporation into the urban environment, in order to strengthen the resilience of the city's green spaces and the well-being of the population.

Phases of the project

  1. Tree planting: 25 specimens of each of these species (Zelkova serrata and Pistacia chinensis) will be planted in four city gardens and in the municipal nursery. In total, 50 trees, 10 in each selected area.
  2. 5 intervention areas: 4 urban parks and 1 tree nursery, selected for the diversity of their geographical and climatic conditions.
  3. Installation of sensors: specialised sensors will be installed on the planted specimens, which will provide detailed data on their status throughout the four years of the project.
  4. Measurements from the sensors: the sensors will continuously follow the growth of the diameter of the trunks, the temperature and the ambient humidity, the quality of the air and the humidity of the soil.
  5. Analysis of the collected data: the data collected will be analysed to evaluate the adaptability of the studied species to the various urban conditions and determine their environmental influence on the surrounding area. This will help us to assess whether they are suitable for future planting in the streets, parks and gardens of Barcelona.