Medellin has long been celebrated in Colombia as “the city of eternal spring” due to its consistently mild and pleasant climate. However, climate change has disrupted this idyllic weather pattern in recent years, bringing summer-like temperatures to the country’s second-largest city. In response, the local government has embarked on an ambitious and aggressive urban reforestation project to combat these rising temperatures and leverage Medellin’s natural advantages.

The city’s reputation for eternal spring is under threat. The increased heat not only affects the comfort and lifestyle of its residents but also poses significant environmental and health risks. As temperatures rise, so do concerns about air quality, energy consumption, and public health.

Recognizing the urgent need for action, the local government has implemented a comprehensive urban reforestation initiative. This project involves planting thousands of trees throughout the city, creating green corridors, and enhancing existing green spaces. The goal is to cool the city and improve air quality, reduce pollution, and provide residents with more recreational areas.

Michelle Begue explains in her report that Medellin is uniquely positioned to benefit from such a project. Its natural topography and surrounding mountains and valleys make it ideal for green spaces that can help mitigate the effects of urban heat islands. The city’s commitment to integrating nature into urban planning already shows promising results.