Begrünungstechniken

Begrünungstechniken, also known as greening techniques, encompass a variety of methods used to introduce or enhance vegetation in urban and developed environments. These techniques aim to improve aesthetics, environmental quality, and the overall functionality of built spaces. A primary goal is often to mitigate the urban heat island effect by increasing shade and evapotranspiration, which can cool surrounding areas. They also play a role in stormwater management by absorbing rainwater, reducing runoff, and filtering pollutants. Furthermore, greening techniques contribute to biodiversity by providing habitats for insects and birds, and can improve air quality by capturing particulate matter and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Commonly employed techniques include green roofs, which involve covering a building's roof with vegetation, and green walls (also known as vertical gardens), where plants are grown on the façade of a building. These can be extensive, with shallow soil layers and low-maintenance plants, or intensive, with deeper soil and a wider variety of species, similar to a ground-level garden. Ground-level greening involves planting trees, shrubs, and groundcover in parks, plazas, and along streets. Permeable paving systems, which allow water to seep through to the ground below, are another related technique that supports vegetation and improves drainage. The selection of specific techniques and plant species depends on factors such as climate, structural capacity, maintenance requirements, and desired ecological outcomes.