Innovative Urban Greening for Enhanced Quality of Life

Cities and urban spaces are the central living environments of the future. Although they cover only 3% of the Earth’s surface, as early as 2007, more than half of the world’s population lived in cities. By 2050, this share is expected to rise to 66%. However, cities are not just economic growth engines; they consume 78% of the world’s energy and generate over 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This makes them key players in the fight against climate change. At the same time, they are particularly affected by its consequences: 80% of cities worldwide are already experiencing extreme climate-related events. Despite these challenges, urbanization also offers great opportunities for sustainable development and a livable future.

Urban Centers in Focus

The World Economic Forum has emphasized that nature is the most efficient resource for resilient, livable, and future-proof cities. A groundbreaking study by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) in 2021 also shows that the targeted use of natural solutions in infrastructure projects could enable annual savings of $248 billion.

Photo: Nerea Marti Sesarino from Unsplash

Bringing nature back into urban areas not only offers economic benefits. The latest “cima.monitor Germany City Center Study” indicates that beyond shopping and mobility shifts, people increasingly demand a better “city-life balance” and especially “climate-friendly urban development”. Green spaces and improved air quality are high on the list of priorities to enhance the quality of life in city centers. A “green climate oasis” ranks as the top demand.

The Challenge: Sealed Surfaces and Air Pollution

Increasing land sealing and densification make it increasingly difficult to create additional green spaces – yet they are highly desirable for capturing emissions at their source and mitigating urban overheating. In addition to tunnels, cables, and sealed surfaces, existing greenery is also affected by climate change, globalization – and human activity.

In Germany, around 45% of urban and transport areas are sealed. These surfaces hinder essential soil functions, especially water permeability and soil fertility, increasing the risk of flooding and contributing to heat island formation. Simultaneously, climate change and rising air pollution exacerbate the situation, reducing urban livability and posing health risks.

Cities and urban spaces must develop innovative greening concepts that are resilient, space-efficient, and yet highly effective. At the same time, they must comply with legal regulations and standards.

Moss: a natural and effective Solution for sustainable Cities

Innovative, nature-based systems ideally complement established urban greening. Where trees cannot take root and maintaining green strips proves challenging, moss-based air filters and coolers provide measurable and space-efficient improvements in quality of life.

Photo: GCS & Benjamin from Unsplash

Modular moss elements with multifunctional benefits offer an effective and quickly implementable alternative to enhance urban spaces. By integrating high-performance plants with seating, digital displays and micro-parks (“PikoPark“), they contribute to improved environmental conditions while supporting certification processes such as DGNB or BREEAM.

Combining the natural properties of moss with intelligent irrigation and sensor technology creates a tangible fresh-air oasis. This soil-independent greening solution delivers measurable climate benefits:

• efficient air purification: up to 82% fine dust reduction
• fresh breeze: up to 20% increased humidity
• microclimate regulation: up to 4 Kelvin (°C) cooling effect in the immediate vicinity
• space-saving: requires only 9m² of space

These fresh-air oases make a significant contribution to greener, more livable, and sustainable urban spaces by simultaneously enhancing biodiversity, integrating into rainwater management systems and generating no excess waste. Developed under eco-design guidelines, they are 99% recyclable.

Their deployment aligns with three UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• 3 – Good Health and Well-being
• 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
• 13 – Climate Action

Photos: GCS

Nature-Based Systems: more than just Greenery

Sustainable construction methods and technologies offer not only ecological benefits but also economic incentives:

• Studies show that sustainable real estate can achieve up to 10% higher rental prices and enjoy an 8% higher occupancy rate.
• Property owners benefit from lower operating costs and long-term value appreciation of their assets.
• Moss elements offer an ROI of 120-150% within three years.
• Their integration can help qualify for various funding programs.

These developments highlight that innovative concepts and forward-thinking technologies for sustainable urban development are also a sound economic investment in the future. With their modular design, moss elements can be flexibly integrated both indoors and outdoors into new and existing projects. They offer an ideal solution for urban spaces looking to enhance air quality and livability while conserving space.

Photo: GCS

Moss Makes the Difference

Fresh-air concepts that combine sustainability, climate protection, and digitalization can be applied in various urban scenarios, offering solutions to multiple challenges. Their economic, ecological, and social advantages, as well as their financial appeal, are already evident in over 80 projects. In 2024 alone, they improved air quality for approximately 500,000 people.

• city centers and pedestrian zones: Enhancing air quality and creating a more pleasant microclimate.
• schools and public institutions: Promoting a healthier environment for children and young people.
• train stations and transport hubs: Reducing fine dust pollution in high-traffic areas.
• residential neighborhoods: Enhancing property value through sustainable greening.
• commercial areas: Integrating into sustainable building projects to meet environmental regulations.

The time to act is now.

To learn more about our sustainable solutions, as well as attractive financing, rental, and leasing options – and how they can contribute to improving air quality and livability – feel free to contact us. Let’s shape the future together!