Green Revolution: AI-Plant ideas for Mainz and Stuttgart's squares!

Green Revolution: AI-Plant ideas for Mainz and Stuttgart's squares!

On June 18, 2025, the city of Stuttgart will present itself in the discussion about greening concepts. A new artificial intelligence has developed promising suggestions for the beautification and climate adaptation of central places. The market square in Stuttgart in particular could benefit from these ideas, which were also developed for Gutenbergplatz in Mainz. Loud SWR The environment suffers from overheating, especially in summer, due to sealed floors and the heat given off by buildings.

The AI ​​suggestions for Gutenbergplatz include installing a solar street, greening the facades at the State Theater, as well as planting larger trees and creating flowering beds. These measures are intended not only to enhance the beauty of the square, but also to contribute to a better microclimate. Bernhard Lenz from Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences emphasizes that the AI ​​version of the plate appears “very nice and green”, but the realistic feasibility of these ideas is questionable.

Urban greening as a necessary measure

Urban greening is becoming increasingly important as cities come under pressure from climate change and rising temperatures. Loud klima-wissen.de Greenery can help reduce heat islands, create retreats for people and animals and improve the general quality of life.

In Stuttgart, the city plans to green up up to 30% of the facades of municipal buildings. However, this faces challenges such as water supply in times of increasing drought and rare but intense heavy rainfall events. Therefore, innovative solutions, such as artificial evaporation systems or solar sails, are required to support the positive effects of greening.

Expert opinions and challenges

However, experts criticize that greenery has a low evaporation and cooling capacity and that competition for space makes it difficult to green central areas. Trees are of central importance for creating shade and reducing temperatures, but their planting is often problematic due to existing infrastructure. The integration of shade trees also requires thorough planning and long-term care.

The city of Stuttgart has already developed some adaptation concepts that also include elements of urban greening. This occurs under the legal framework, in force since July 1, 2024, which requires all levels of government to develop strategies to adapt to the consequences of climate change. Rhineland-Palatinate is planning a climate adaptation strategy by the beginning of 2027, while various cities in Baden-Württemberg are already working on their concepts.

The need to effectively manage the impacts of climate change is essential to maintaining the quality of life in city centers. A variety of urban greening measures can not only reduce heat islands, but also promote biodiversity. Engaged citizen participation is often highlighted as crucial to the maintenance and acceptance of these green spaces. This is the only way to sustainably improve urban quality of life.