how Lille is adapting to global warming

Under a dazzling sun, difficult to cool off, in Lille (Nord), Tuesday July 19. Asphalt, pavement and buildings act as mirrors that reflect heat. In an attempt to remedy this, the city has undertaken work. In a schoolyard, the ground is replaced by light gray cobblestones, on which water does not infiltrate. “It passes through, and therefore it will make a natural air conditioning of the court”explains Sylvain Luquet, landscaper at the Slap agency.

Beyond the schools, greening is spreading throughout the city. Nearly 20,000 trees were planted in the space of a year. The difference is clear: 36°C under the islands of freshness, when it is 41 on the Grand’Place, with few trees. “Beyond the fact that it brings shade, it necessarily refreshes the concrete”, comments a woman. The town hall has promised that it will continue to green its infrastructures. “It is a global reflection on urban planning, in terms of landscape, to find islands of freshness, in all districts”explains Stanislas Dendievel, assistant for town planning, landscape and nature.