Update from Mantua

November 2024 – Updates from the Mantua Forest

We are in Mantua, in the heart of the Mincio Park, next to Lago di Mezzo, to update you on the progress of the reforestation project. This woodland, which is vital for improving the local habitat, has seen the removal of non-native species and the reintroduction of native species such as oaks, hornbeams and poplars. It’s not just about trees: the footpaths have been improved and innovative ‘tree talker’ devices have been installed to monitor the temperature of the woodland compared to the outside, demonstrating its cooling effect. Furthermore, the project actively involves the community through environmental education activities, making the Peri-urban Woodland a shining example of collaboration between nature and people.

Mantua’s Peri-urban Woodland: nature, city and community involvement

This morning we find ourselves in the peri-urban woodland of Mantua, a green space stretching along the shore of Lake Mezzo and offering one of the most striking views of the city of Mantua – the one you can admire as you cross the San Giorgio bridge. This woodland, part of the Mincio Park, is a habitat of great ecological and environmental value, situated in a particularly sensitive area of the low-lying plain.

Habitat restoration measures

In recent months, significant measures have been taken to improve and preserve this natural area:

Removal of unwanted non-native species: This work has been crucial in eliminating invasive plants that threaten the balance of the original habitat. The woodland in this area is characterised by oak-hornbeam and poplar groves with willows, meso-hygrophilous formations that thrive in damp soils. The reintroduction of native species has restored the woodland to its original appearance.
Reinforcement and restoration of the lake banks: The banks of Lago di Mezzo have been restored to prevent erosion, a problem which, if left unchecked, could compromise the entire lake ecosystem.
Improvement of the network of footpaths: The footpaths running through the woodland have been restored and improved, offering visitors accessible and pleasant routes to immerse themselves in nature.
Installation of TreeTalkers: These innovative devices ‘make the trees talk’, measuring the internal temperature of the woodland and comparing it with the external temperature. The results highlight the important cooling ecosystem service provided by forests. This effect is particularly significant in cities, where heat accumulation is amplified by the presence of concrete.

Environmental education and community involvement

In addition to environmental initiatives, the project includes environmental education activities organised by the Alchemica cooperative. Through workshops and initiatives, both in schools and involving the local community, the project promotes awareness of the value of natural areas and the need to protect them.

Watch the video and find out more about the project