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Green walls against heat: Vienna University is revolutionizing the city climate!
Währing is testing innovative facade greening to reduce hot spots. BOKU initiative led by Prof. Stangl.
Green walls against heat: Vienna University is revolutionizing the city climate!
A lot is happening in the heat battle of the cities. Today, July 15, 2025, an exciting pilot project at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna starts. Under the direction of Professor Rosemarie Stangl, the Institute of Engineering Biology and Landscaping is working on reducing heat poles caused by glass facades. Specifically, the retrofitting of office buildings and supermarkets in Währing and Tyrol is intended to ensure a more pleasant urban climate. The idea is as simple as it is ingenious: climbing plants should be used as natural shading.
These plants are not only decorative, but also have the potential to significantly reduce temperatures in cities. Winter light transmission and summer shadow formation are the main goals. Three years ago, four plant species were chosen for the greenery, and they are now showing their effect. According to the results, they can block up to 90% of direct sunlight, which not only improves the indoor climate but also optimizes light requirements in winter. The green walls also bring a breath of fresh air into the cityscape and increase the well-being of passers-by crown reported.
Urban climate in transition
The challenges for urban spaces are immense. Urbanization is progressing, heat islands and high levels of particulate matter are increasingly becoming a problem. Livable cities are in demand like never before. In this context, greenery is no longer just a niche topic. How on Construction guide As can be read, green facades filter harmful substances such as CO₂ and nitrogen oxides from the air and at the same time provide shade and coolness. The evaporation of water also helps lower the ambient temperature, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Numerous cities, including Vienna, are already implementing funding programs for such greening measures. Particularly impressive: an area of just 10 m² covered with ivy or wild vine can bind up to 500 g of fine dust every year. An aspect that speaks not only ecologically but also economically.
Advantages of facade greening
The positive effects of green facades are diverse. They provide noise protection, create habitats for insects and birds and contribute to biodiversity in our cities. They also have a dampening effect on street noise. From thermal insulation in winter to cooling in summer – the advantages are undisputed. Also on Ethics guide highlights the many benefits that green facades and roofs offer, including storing rainwater and improving air quality.
The selection of suitable plants is crucial and should be adapted to the climatic conditions and the desired effect. However, challenges in implementation, such as statics and maintenance costs, can be overcome with the right planning.
In summary, greening facades and roofs is not only an aesthetic upgrade, but also a practical step towards a more sustainable and livable city. With the new BOKU pilot project, the city of Vienna is taking an important step in this direction and is thus setting an example for future green initiatives.