Future of Cities’ expansion to Portugal explores what’s to come for our regenerative placemaking project that is reimagining the workplace in Porto.

Designed at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and human-centric design, this initiative aims to create a regenerative, community-driven workspace. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, professionals are prioritizing balance, flexibility, and values-aligned environments. In response, office spaces must transform into hubs of well-being, innovation, and collaboration.

Where Innovation Meets Community

Located in the vibrant Senhora da Hora district of Matosinhos, Porto, our upcoming project offers seamless accessibility. With a subway station just steps away, proximity to renowned institutions like Porto Business School and Universidade Europeia do Porto, and a major retail and dining hub at Norte Shopping, the development integrates work and life with ease.

The Future of Work, Today

With hybrid work becoming the norm, this workspace is designed to be adaptive—offering personalized experiences, intuitive services, and premium amenities. More than just an office, it’s a forward-thinking campus for the modern workforce.

Designed with Purpose, Built for People & Place

• Modular Workspaces – Flexible, hybrid-ready layouts that evolve with your needs.
• Community & Collaboration – A campus-inspired setting that fosters networking and idea exchange.
• Well-Being First – On-site gym, wellness programs, mental health support, and farm-to-table dining.
• Regenerative by Design – Green roofs, pocket forests, and renewable energy solutions to ensure sustainability.
• LEED-Certified – High-performance green building standards for a resilient future.
• Smart & Sustainable – IoT-enabled spaces for real-time connectivity, efficiency, and environmental tracking.

Beyond Work: Elevating Tenant Experience

This development isn’t just about providing office space—it’s about creating a workplace that enhances corporate culture, strengthens employer brands, and supports:

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – Embedding sustainability and ethics into daily operations.
• Talent Retention & Attraction – Workspaces aligned with employee well-being and values.
• Growth & Innovation – A culture of continuous learning, networking, and collaboration.

With monthly art exhibitions, community events, and environmental education initiatives, this project offers an engaging and evolving office experience.

Join the Movement

Discover how you can be part of this transformational development and explore opportunities within Portugal’s Golden Visa program. The future of work is here—designed with purpose, built for people, and driven by innovation.

Urbanization inevitably transforms the landscapes it inhabits. Cities pulse with cultural diversity, commerce, movement, and exchange—bringing energy and connection to our lives. Yet, as concrete sprawls and car dependency rises, many urban areas are turning into ecological dead zones, burdened by air, noise and light pollution.

By thoughtfully weaving biodiversity into the built environment, we can align human activity with nature, creating spaces that support both ecological health and human well-being. Prioritizing green infrastructure and essential pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds allows cities to flourish as vibrant ecosystems. When we let nature guide our planning and design, we cultivate not only resilient but regenerative, inspiring environments where both people and wildlife can thrive.

Why Biodiversity and Pollinators Matter in Urban Development

Biodiversity—the variety of life within ecosystems—plays a fundamental role in maintaining environmental stability. Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bats, are vital to sustaining biodiversity by facilitating plant reproduction. In urban settings, fostering biodiversity and supporting pollinators can:

• Improve air and water quality
• Enhance food production and urban agriculture
• Regulate temperature through natural cooling mechanisms
• Strengthen climate resilience by promoting ecological balance
• Improve mental and physical health by connecting people with nature

Ignoring biodiversity and pollinators in urban planning leads to habitat destruction, food insecurity, urban heat island effects, and loss of essential ecosystem services. This makes cities more vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation.

Strategies for Enhancing Biodiversity and Supporting Pollinators in the Built Environment

1. Green Infrastructure & Nature-Based Solutions

Incorporating green roofs, living walls, and rain gardens enhances urban biodiversity while improving air quality and stormwater management. These nature-based solutions create essential habitats for pollinators and native plants, contributing to healthier urban ecosystems.

Brooklyn Grange

Founded in 2010, Brooklyn Grange is the leading rooftop farming and intensive green roofing business in the US, operating the world’s largest rooftop soil farms, located in New York City. Brooklyn Grange promotes sustainable urban living by building green spaces, hosting educational programming and events, and widening access to locally grown produce in New York City communities. Brooklyn Grange’s purpose is to restore the connection between people and the natural world. We create meaningful livelihood opportunities and steward green spaces in the built environment to foster more livable and climate-adapted cities.

2. Pollinator-Friendly Planting & Urban Beekeeping

Integrating native flowering plants, meadows, and pollinator gardens into urban landscapes provides essential nectar sources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Urban beekeeping initiatives, such as rooftop apiaries and community-led pollinator programs, help restore declining bee populations while fostering local food production. A living and breathing example of this is the IGA Organic Rooftop Farm.

IGA ORGANIC ROOFTOP FARM

25,000 square foot rooftop garden of IGA Extra Famille Duchemin grocery store, created in 2017 in Montreal, produces about 35 types of produce that the store harvests and sells themselves. Richard Duchemin, co-owner of the IGA Extra Famille Duchemin, says his grocery was the first in Canada to sell produce that’s grown on its roof. About 35 types of produce are being grown in the 25,000-sq.-ft. rooftop garden — about half the total roof area.

3. Urban Rewilding & Habitat Restoration

Transforming underutilized spaces into biodiverse ecosystems, such as converting vacant lots into pollinator-friendly gardens, helps reconnect urban areas with nature. Cities like Singapore, London and The Underline in Miami have successfully implemented urban rewilding initiatives, increasing biodiversity and strengthening pollinator populations.

The Underline

Since its founding, Friends of The Underline has been committed to transforming the underutilized land below Miami’s Metrorail—from the Miami River to Dadeland South Station—into a 10-mile linear park, urban trail and public art destination.

Through a partnership with Miami-Dade County, a vibrant and engaged board of directors, public and private donors and hundreds of volunteers, The Underline is becoming an example for repurposing unused land into a public park and community space and asset.

In 2020, The Underline Management Organization dba The Underline Conservancy was created to manage, maintain, operate and program The Underline. The public/private organization has its own board with representatives from Friends of The Underline and Miami-Dade County.

4. Sustainable Land-Use Planning

Integrating biodiversity considerations into zoning laws, building codes, and land-use policies ensures that urban growth does not come at the cost of ecosystem destruction. Mixed-use developments with green corridors help facilitate wildlife movement, pollinator pathways, and habitat connectivity.

5. Biophilic Design Principles

Biophilic design integrates natural elements into the built environment, enhancing aesthetics while supporting ecological function. Features like pollinator-friendly terraces, indoor gardens, and natural lighting improve occupant well-being while reinforcing biodiversity.

6. Innovative Bio-Based Building Materials

Sustainable, bio-based building materials play a crucial role in integrating biodiversity into urban development. Examples include:

• Mycelium-Based Insulation: A biodegradable, high-performance insulation that supports natural ecosystems.
• Bamboo Composites: A fast-growing, regenerative alternative to traditional construction materials.
• Rammed Earth: A natural and durable material that reduces carbon emissions.
• Bio-Concrete: A living material that fosters moss, lichen, and even pollinator-friendly microhabitats.

These materials not only reduce the environmental impact of construction but also enhance habitat creation for pollinators and other wildlife.

7. Community Engagement & Stewardship

Educating communities about biodiversity conservation and involving them in pollinator-friendly initiatives—such as tree planting, beekeeping workshops, and native species gardening—fosters environmental responsibility. Citizen science programs and urban conservation efforts strengthen the relationship between people and nature while promoting pollinator health.

Additional Case Studies: Biodiversity & Pollinator Success Stories in Urban Development

The High Line, New York City

A former railway turned urban park, the High Line is a prime example of how biodiversity can be reintroduced into a dense urban setting. Featuring native plant species designed to attract pollinators, the park provides habitat for bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife while offering a green space for the community.

Bosco Verticale, Milan

The Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) residential towers integrate over 900 trees and thousands of plants into their design. This not only improves air quality and reduces noise pollution but also creates a microhabitat for birds and pollinators in the heart of the city.

Singapore’s Green Plan 2030

Singapore has positioned itself as a leader in urban biodiversity through its Green Plan 2030, which emphasizes increasing green spaces, expanding nature corridors, and promoting sustainable urban development. Many of its initiatives focus on enhancing pollinator habitats and restoring urban ecosystems.

The Future of Biodiversity, Pollinators & the Built Environment

As climate change and urbanization continue to challenge ecosystems, integrating biodiversity and pollinator conservation into urban planning is more urgent than ever. By embracing nature-based solutions, biophilic design, and bio-based building materials, cities can transform into biodiversity hotspots rather than ecological wastelands. The future of sustainable urban development lies in fostering harmony between the built environment and the natural world, ensuring that pollinators—and the ecosystems they sustain—thrive alongside us.

Are you a developer, architect, or urban planner looking to incorporate biodiversity and pollinator-friendly design into your projects?

We are seeking tenants, partners and collaborators who are interested to demonstrate their innovative projects and concepts at the Climate & Innovation HUB in Miami and the PHXJAX Art & Innovation District in Jacksonville, Florida

Let’s collaborate to build spaces that support both people and the planet. 

The financial benefits of biophilic urbanism and its integration into real estate development projects are substantial. By weaving natural elements into urban design, developers and cities alike save money and unlock long-term investment advantages.

Here’s a breakdown of cost savings and benefits associated with biophilic design:

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Cost Savings of Biophilic Urbanism

1. Reduced Energy Costs
   • Green roofs and walls act as natural insulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
     • Savings: Studies suggest energy reductions of 20-50% in buildings with integrated greenery.
     • Example: The Bosco Verticale in Milan reduces energy use through natural shading and microclimate regulation.
   • Daylighting strategies using larger windows and reflective materials cut lighting costs by up to 60%.
2. Stormwater Management
   • Biophilic infrastructure such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements reduces the need for expensive stormwater systems.
     • Savings: Green infrastructure costs 10-30% less than conventional grey infrastructure for managing stormwater.
3. Lower Healthcare Costs
   • Access to biophilic spaces improves mental and physical health, reducing public and private healthcare expenditures.
     • Research: Employees with views of nature have 15% lower absenteeism, saving businesses approximately $2,000 per employee annually.
4. Extended Building Lifespan
   • Biophilic design materials (e.g., living walls) protect structures from heat and UV damage, reducing maintenance costs over time.
5. Improved Quality of Living
   • The cooling and calming effects of biophilic design integrated along streets and public spaces encourages walkability and supports with temperature cooling in heat-sensitive cities as seen in Medellín’s Green Corridors Initiative.

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Investment Benefits for Developers and Investors

1. Increased Property Values
   • Properties near parks, greenways, and other biophilic elements command higher prices.
     • Case Study: Homes within 1,000 feet of a park are valued 8-20% higher.
     • ROI: Developments integrating nature can see up to a 25% increase in property values.
2. Higher Occupancy Rates
   • Tenants and buyers are drawn to biophilic spaces, especially in urban areas.
     • Data: Offices with biophilic design features have 10-15% higher occupancy rates compared to traditional buildings.
3. Attracting Premium Tenants
   • Corporate tenants often prefer sustainable, biophilic developments for their employee wellness and sustainability goals.
     • Example: Tech companies like Google, Amazon & Apple have heavily invested in campuses with biophilic elements to boost productivity and recruitment.
4. Tax Incentives and Subsidies
   • Many cities offer tax breaks and financial incentives for green infrastructure and sustainable development.
     • Example: In the U.S., the Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction provides up to $1.80 per square foot for qualifying projects.
5. Enhanced Community Engagement
   • Developments that integrate parks, community gardens, and public green spaces foster goodwill and local support, reducing delays from opposition and permitting hurdles.

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Quantifying the Returns: Case Studies

1. Singapore’s Green Urbanism
   • The city’s commitment to biophilic urbanism has driven its ranking as one of the most livable cities globally.
   • Economic Impact: Savings on cooling and stormwater management, combined with increased tourism, are estimated at billions annually.
2. The High Line, New York City
   • Transforming an abandoned rail line into a biophilic urban park increased surrounding property values by 10-15% and spurred $2 billion in private investment.
3. Amazon Spheres, Seattle
   • Amazon’s biophilic office space attracts top talent and reduces energy costs, providing long-term savings and enhancing employee productivity.
4. Apple’s new Miami store employs the principles of biophilic design
   • Apple’s first mass-timber store connects shoppers to nature while echoing the Art Deco architecture of Miami

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A Win-Win for People and Profit

Biophilic urbanism isn’t just an environmental or aesthetic choice—it’s an economic strategy. By saving on energy, stormwater, and healthcare costs while supporting civic health and boosting property values, the return on investment (ROI) for biophilic projects is substantial. Forward-thinking developers who integrate these principles are not only creating sustainable cities but also securing financial and community-driven benefits.

Economic Benefits 

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1. Increased Property Value

Biophilic elements such as green roofs, community parks, and natural features significantly enhance the appeal of properties, leading to higher sale and rental prices.

• Residential Properties: Homes near green spaces or water bodies typically see property values increase by 8-20%.
• Commercial Properties: Biophilic office buildings can command a rent premium of 5-12% compared to traditional designs.
  • Example: Properties near New York City’s High Line saw values increase by over 15% following its biophilic redevelopment.

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2. Higher Occupancy Rates

Tenants prefer living and working in spaces that prioritize health and nature, which reduces vacancies and enhances long-term revenue.

• Offices with natural lighting and greenery report 10-15% higher occupancy rates compared to conventional buildings.
• Mixed-use developments that integrate green spaces are more successful in retaining tenants.

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3. Lower Operational Costs

Biophilic design reduces energy consumption, stormwater management expenses, and long-term maintenance costs:

• Energy Efficiency:
  • Green roofs and walls act as natural insulation, lowering heating and cooling costs by 20-50%.
  • Natural daylighting strategies can reduce electricity bills for lighting by up to 60%.
• Water Management:
  • Rain gardens and bioswales reduce stormwater infrastructure costs by 10-30%.
  • Managing stormwater through green infrastructure in Portland, Oregon, saves the city $63 million annually compared to traditional systems.

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4. Boosted Employee Productivity and Retention

Biophilic design directly impacts workplace efficiency and employee well-being:

• Productivity Gains: Workers in biophilic offices report a 6-15% increase in productivity, saving companies significant amounts annually.
• Reduced Absenteeism: Access to natural views and greenery lowers absenteeism by 10-15%, translating to cost savings of approximately $2,000 per employee per year.
• Employee Retention: Workplaces that prioritize wellness and natural elements attract and retain top talent, reducing recruitment costs.

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7. Tax Incentives and Policy Benefits

Governments worldwide offer financial incentives for biophilic and green infrastructure projects:

• Energy Tax Credits: In the U.S., the Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction offers up to $1.80 per square foot for qualifying developments.
• Grants and Subsidies: Developers may qualify for grants aimed at sustainable urban design and stormwater management.
• Fast-Tracked Permitting: Some cities, like Singapore, provide expedited approvals for developments that incorporate green features, reducing time-to-market and associated costs.

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8. Community and Economic Development

Biophilic urbanism spurs local economic growth by making neighborhoods more livable and desirable:

• Tourism Revenue: Projects like Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and New York’s High Line attract millions of visitors annually, generating billions in tourism-related income.
• Business Growth: Retail spaces near biophilic features experience higher foot traffic and consumer spending.
  • Example: Businesses adjacent to the High Line saw sales rise by 10-20% after its development.

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8. Long-Term Financial Resilience

Biophilic design future-proofs real estate investments by addressing risks related to climate change and urbanization:

• Resilience to Extreme Weather: Green infrastructure mitigates the impact of flooding, heatwaves, and other climate-related events, avoiding costly damages.
• Sustainability Premiums: Buildings with biophilic and sustainable certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL) have greater long-term market appeal and resilience against regulatory changes.

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Quantified Benefits at a Glance

• Energy Savings: Up to 50% on heating and cooling.
• Stormwater Cost Reduction: 10-30% savings on infrastructure.
• Property Value Increase: 8-20% for residential; 5-12% for commercial.
• Productivity Boost: 6-15% improvement in workplaces.

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A WISE Investment for Cities and Developers

Biophilic design is more than a sustainability trend; it’s a strategic investment that delivers economic, social, and environmental returns. From higher property values to operational savings and increased productivity, incorporating nature into urban design creates a win-win for all stakeholders. Developers who embrace this approach are not only driving profitability but also contributing to healthier, more resilient cities.

Biophilic design is not a new trend but we are seeing it being emphasized, prioritized and normalized more and more throughout real estate projects & urban planning and for good reason.

Biophilic Design is defined as an approach to architecture and interior design that seeks to integrate natural elements, patterns, and processes into built environments to foster a sense of connection to nature.

Rooted in the concept of biophilia—humans’ innate affinity for the natural world—it aims to enhance physical and mental well-being, improve productivity, and create more sustainable spaces. This can include elements like natural light, greenery, organic materials, views of nature, and designs that mimic natural forms and rhythms.

Nature & the Built Environment

By blending natural elements into the interiors and exteriors of the built environment we create spaces that nourish the soul, enhance our well-being, remind us of our deep connection with the earth, cool our streets, clean the air and conserve energy. From scent to sight, adding fresh and living green decor to the design of your project allows the spirit to settle and the senses to expand into the natural world.

Some of the Benefits of integrating biophilic design into your projects may include:

• Improved well being, enhanced moods and feelings of aliveness
• Increased productivity & focus
• Lowered blood pressure through reduced stress
• Improved respiratory health
• Energy cost savings
• Street cooling and clean air
• Increase in property values
• Increased walkability

Biophilic Projects that are Inspiring Us

This collection of case studies highlights the far-reaching creative, economic and climate benefits of integrating biophilic design into urban developments worldwide. By prioritizing nature-inspired solutions, cities can achieve greater resilience, enhanced public well-being, and long-term economic prosperity.

Forest City – Liuzhou, China

Forest City is a visionary urban development integrating lush greenery into its architectural and infrastructural design. This yet-to-be-built project exemplifies the potential of biophilic cities in enhancing urban climate resilience while reducing pollution through the absorption of CO2 by its abundant vegetation. The city is designed to incorporate vertical forests, green rooftops, and tree-lined streets, setting a precedent for sustainable megacities of the future.

Azulik – Mexico

Nestled in the heart of Tulum, SFER IK – Azulik is a premier example of biophilic luxury design, thoughfully merging the built environment with the natural world. Through the use of organic architecture, open-air spaces, and locally sourced materials, a deep connection between visitors and nature promotes ecological harmony. This project showcases how regenerative hospitality can create economic and environmental value.

CopenHill – Denmark

CopenHill is a pioneering example of multi-functional infrastructure that combines waste-to-energy technology with urban recreation. The facility not only generates energy for thousands of homes but also features an artificial ski slope, hiking trails, and a lush rooftop park. By integrating greenery and public spaces into an industrial structure, CopenHill enhances both the local economy and quality of life while reducing carbon emissions.

Oriente Green Campus – Lisbon, Portugal

Situated in Lisbon, Oriente Green Campus redefines urban sustainability by integrating energy-efficient structures with biodiverse landscapes. This development prioritizes green infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and eco-conscious architecture, contributing to a healthier, more resilient urban environment.

Future of Cities’ Climate & Innovation HUB – Miami, FL – USA

Located in Miami, the Climate & Innovation HUB by Future of Cities is the first aspiring net-zero office and event space in South Florida to demonstrate the intersection of environmental technology and urban resilience. Featuring biophilic installations from Plant the Future and showcasing climate-responsive design elements, the HUB serves as a model for sustainable urban innovation. The ReefLine‘s 3D printed prototypes located in The Yard at the HUB showcase how art, ecology, and infrastructure can coalesce to enhance coastal resilience while boosting local eco-tourism and economic activity.

Potato Head Bali, Indonesia

The Potato Head creative village in Bali is a beacon of sustainable hospitality, incorporating upcycled materials, zero-waste initiatives, and a focus on local craftsmanship. Its commitment to circular economy principles makes it a leader in regenerative eco-tourism. Potato Head Bali’s approach demonstrates how sustainability is a driver of economic growth and innovation in the hospitality sector. By integrating biophilic design, upcycling, and place-based practices, the brand has set a new standard of cool for eco-friendly tourism, lifestyle brands and hospitality projects inspiring other brands to follow suit.

COMO Adventure Grove, Singapore

COMO Adventure Grove reimagines urban play spaces with biophilic elements inspired by Singapore’s natural landscape. The integration of native plant species and organic play structures fosters ecological awareness and engagement for visitors of all ages.

EcoKid Kindergarten – Vinh, Vietnam

EcoKid Kindergarten in Vietnam leverages biophilic design to create an immersive learning environment for young students. Featuring abundant natural light, green roofs, and open-air classrooms, this project highlights the intersection of education, sustainability, and economic value in urban design.

Monaco Cable Car Mid Station

Designed by Shigeru Ban Architects, the Monaco Cable Car Mid Station integrates sustainable materials and greenery into its innovative transport infrastructure. By prioritizing environmental aesthetics and reducing urban congestion, this project exemplifies how biophilic transit solutions contribute to economic efficiency. The Monaco Cable Car (Monaco-Téléphérique) is a unique urban cable car system in Monaco, connecting key areas of the city-state, including the Monte-Carlo district and the Fontvieille district. The system is designed to improve public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in the densely populated principality. The Monaco Cable Car is part of Monaco’s broader efforts to promote sustainable urban mobility. By reducing reliance on cars, the system helps lower carbon emissions and traffic congestion in the city-state.

Paper Green House Les Tonnelles, Japan

Also designed by Shigeru Ban Architects, the Paper Green House Les Tonnelles showcases sustainable, modular design using paper-based materials. This project underscores the economic and environmental benefits of adaptable, low-impact construction methods.

Santalai – Bogota, Colombia

Santalai in Colombia showcases an eco-friendly architecture that merges functional design with urban living. “Designing irrigation, water recycling systems, as well as plant selection were some of the biggest challenges with the Santalaia project. The Santalaia building is also using water from the apartments’ showers for irrigation, among many technical details we installed humidity and radiation sensors to optimize water consumption as well as a water treatment plant so as not to have any water waste.” Pablo Atuesta, General Manager of Groncol.

The Jewel – Singapore

The Jewel at Changi Airport is an architectural marvel that integrates indoor greenery, waterfalls, and natural light to enhance traveler experiences. By combining commercial, leisure, and ecological elements, The Jewel exemplifies how biophilic design can drive tourism, retail, and economic growth.

Greenshades – Spain

Greenshades in Spain is a leading example of urban greening initiatives, featuring innovative shading structures covered in vegetation to reduce urban heat and improve air quality. This project highlights the economic benefits of incorporating nature-based solutions into city planning.

Medellín Green Corridors Initiative – Colombia

The Medellín Green Corridors Initiative, a biophilic urban planning project, has successfully reduced temperatures in the city by up to 2-3°C (3.6-5.4°F) in some areas. This was achieved by planting trees, creating green spaces, and integrating vegetation into the urban landscape, which helped mitigate the urban heat island effect.

The initiative cost approximately $16.3 million USD and involved planting thousands of trees and plants across 30 corridors and 124 parks. The project not only cooled the city but also improved air quality, biodiversity, and the overall quality of life for residents.

The Medellín Green Corridors Initiative has an estimated monthly maintenance cost of around $625,000 USD. This includes expenses for watering, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, and general upkeep of the green spaces and trees. The maintenance is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the project in cooling the city and providing environmental benefits.

The cost is shared between the city government and local communities, with some areas involving community participation to reduce expenses. The investment is considered worthwhile given the significant environmental, social, and economic benefits the project has brought to Medellín.

Coming Soon to Portugal

A new biophilic development in Portugal is in the works, emphasizing ecological sustainability and innovation with Future of Cities. Further details and project insights will be shared here soon. Stay tuned!