Prague Unveils Innovative Green Initiative to Combat Urban Heat

The center of Prague is one of the most vibrant spots in the Czech Republic.

The city has experienced significant urbanization, with concrete paths and asphalt surfaces dominating the landscape, creating a heat island effect. This means that in summer, ground temperatures can exceed 50°C—much hotter than in areas where the earth can absorb moisture and breathe.

These severe conditions, which are worsened by climate change, highlight the necessity for immediate and sustainable solutions.

In response to these challenges, the city has put into action the Strategy for Adaptation of the Capital City of Prague to Climate Change, an extensive plan designed to help cool the urban area and enhance the city’s resilience.

To raise public awareness, Prague will be organizing a Climate Walk on Thursday, April 10, which will showcase specific initiatives already underway. The event is complimentary and accessible to everyone.

The program kicks off at 1 p.m. at the European House (Národní 10), beginning with an introductory speech, followed by briefings from officials at Prague City Hall. They will discuss the aims of the Prague Climate Plan, provide updates on ongoing projects, and share achievements achieved so far.

The initial stop on the walk is Smetanovo nábřeží, which has recently been redesigned with climate resilience in mind. This project focused on enhancing pedestrian comfort, featuring a wider walkway on both sides, a newly created cycling path, and tree-lined streets that provide shade during scorching summer days—a significant improvement in an area that receives up to 100,000 visitors each day during the busy season.

The path will also lead attendees through the vicinity of the National Museum, which has just undergone substantial renovations. The area between the museum and Čelakovský Park has been repaved with permeable pavers to assist in harnessing rainwater effectively.

Additionally, the park has been revitalized with a variety of plants to promote biodiversity, featuring 21 tree varieties, nearly 100 shrubs, and over 100,000 individual plants.

Investments and Inspiration

“Prague is significantly ahead when it comes to adaptation strategies,” stated Tereza Líbová, who leads environmental projects at Prague City Hall. “The city is making considerable investments to address urban heat, enhance green spaces and improve water management while creating new tree-lined avenues. Our primary goal is to demonstrate innovative solutions, engage the community, and inspire further actions.”

Martina Čížková, the Czech ambassador for the European Climate Pact, believes that Prague can set a standard for other urban centers. “Building cities that can withstand climate change is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity,” she remarked. “I anticipate that the climate walk will spark greater interest among individuals in these initiatives and help them comprehend their significance for our health, environment, and future.”

Trees for Climate Resilience

One of the notable stops will be Strossmayerovo náměstí, where 17 Julian elm trees were planted towards the end of last year by the Technical Roads Administration (TSK). Selected due to their longevity and resilience, these trees form part of a larger strategy aimed at enhancing the livability of urban spaces.

“Trees serve as the lungs of the city. They help cool streets, provide shade, filter dust and pollutants, retain water, and improve the overall atmosphere of public areas,” expressed Jan Čižinský, the mayor of Prague 7. “We are thankful for every new tree added to our district.”

Event Information

• Climate Walk

• Date: Thursday, April 10

• Time: 1:00 p.m.

• Meeting Point: European House, Národní 10

• Admission: Free (registration required)

• Features: Smetanovo nábřeží, Strossmayer Square, National Museum vicinity