Copenhagen to convert 7 hectares of asphalt into flower fields

The ultimate goal is to strengthen biodiversity, support animals, and make the city more attractive

In recent years, Denmark has set its sights on achieving greater biodiversity. Taking a case in point, the Danish Ministry of the Environment formed a Biodiversity Council earlier this month. What is more, Copenhagen agreed to finance 24 citizen-led projects which would make the city greener. Now, the capital has taken yet another step in this direction.

More specifically, the Technical and Environmental Committee in Copenhagen has decided to transform seven hectares of asphalt and tiles into colourful fields of flowers. This area is equivalent to 10 football pitches and covers over 70,000 square metres. As such, it is large enough to make a significant difference for the animals and nature in the capital.

The high flower density will positively impact life in the city

By creating fields of flowers, the municipality is supporting small animals and creating environments for bees and insects. In this way, the City of Copenhagen will strengthen biodiversity and make the capital more attractive. Member of the Technical and Environmental Committee Flemming Steen Munch came up with the idea for this initiative, acknowledging that bees, butterflies, and other insects lack food chains in big cities.

Mayor of Technology and the Environment Ninna Hedeager Olsen commented on the municipality’s new project: “We are in the middle of a biodiversity crisis, where more and more species are threatened. That is why I am really happy that all parties are willing to take responsibility for reversing the trend. The administration has outlined the possibilities of creating small flowering oases with lots of pollen and nectar around the whole city, and there is a lot to catch up on.”

At the moment, the transformation of 70,294 m² is expected to cost approximately DKK 3.2 million (EUR 430,362). The conversion of urban areas into fields of flowers will begin in 2022.