Milan, March 3, 2026 – The Milan metropolitan area is preparing for a significant environmental transformation with the planting of 63,000 new trees as part of the ‘Forestami’ project. This initiative, funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) with a total investment of three million euros, aims to create a widespread network of new green spaces and combat the effects of urbanization.
63,000 Trees Across 19 Municipalities
The project, announced by the Metropolitan City of Milan, involves 19 municipalities and covers 25 areas, totaling 62.51 hectares. The planting operations are expected to commence in the coming weeks, contributing to the region’s ecological resilience.
First Phase: Enhancing Ecological Connectivity
The initial phase of the project focuses on 30.12 hectares across the municipalities of Casorezzo, Locate di Triulzi, Peschiera Borromeo, Pozzo d’Adda, and San Colombano al Lambro. This segment will see the planting of 30,120 trees and shrubs. The primary objective is to improve environmental continuity and ecological connection by identifying new urban forestation areas within agricultural zones, near water bodies, and within territorial parks. The plants, all native and certified, were acquired from the nursery of the Regional Agency for Services to Agriculture and Forests. Construction sites have already been established, and preparatory activities for planting are underway.
Second Phase: Combating Urban Heat Islands
The second phase targets 32.39 hectares across 19 areas in the municipalities of Basiano, Cambiago, Cernusco sul Naviglio, Cologno Monzese, Gorgonzola, Lainate, Liscate, Masate, Milan, Nerviano, Paderno Dugnano, Pero, Pieve Emanuele, and Segrate, with 32,393 trees and shrubs planned. This part of the project is specifically designed to increase the natural capital in highly urbanized and densely populated areas. By implementing Nature-based solutions (NBS) through forestation, the initiative aims to counteract rising temperatures and mitigate urban heat island effects. Similar to the first phase, the plants for this stage were also sourced from the Regional Agency for Services to Agriculture and Forests, ensuring their suitability for the local ecosystem.
A Broader Vision for a Greener Milan
The ‘Forestami’ project is part of a broader territorial vision that integrates existing green infrastructures with new developments. The goal is to create a more interconnected and resilient urban environment, capable of addressing climate change challenges and improving the quality of life for residents.
The Metropolitan City of Milan has awarded the work to a temporary grouping of companies, emphasizing a coordinated and efficient approach to the complex undertaking. This large-scale greening effort underscores Milan’s commitment to sustainable urban development and its role as a leader in environmental initiatives.
The 63,000 new trees are expected to bring numerous benefits, including improved air quality, enhanced biodiversity, reduced heat stress, and increased aesthetic value of the urban landscape. This investment in nature is anticipated to have a lasting positive impact on the Milanese community and its surrounding areas.
Source: https://www.milanotoday.it/attualita/nuovi-alberi-milano-2026.html
