Bologna, alongside the Emilia Romagna region, has faced significant challenges due to rising temperatures, making climate resilience an urgent priority. To address the issues posed by Urban Heat Islands (UHI) and Urban Heat Waves (UHW), particularly for vulnerable populations, TALEA introduces the TALEA Green Cells (TGC). TGC is a modular, integrative design and spatial unit functioning as a connective tissue across physical and digital realms. Its innovation lies in the seamless integration of nature-based solutions, cutting-edge technological advancements, site-specific, data-driven monitoring, and citizen science to lead both green and digital transitions.
TGCs are adaptable, re-composable, and replicable, capable of linking together through digitally supported, qualitative-quantitative co-design processes. Different combinations of TGCs will be deployed across three areas, selected based on Bologna’s participatory budgeting and vulnerability mapping. These areas will not only feature climate shelters but also foster new aesthetic, social, and cultural values alongside co-designed, climate-just services. At a macro scale, TGCs will contribute to reintegrating urban spaces into a continuous Green Infrastructure network, facilitating long-term environmental and social benefits.
TALEA’s work aims to address UHI and UHW challenges beyond the project’s timeline by creating a green infrastructure that is manageable, accessible, adaptive, measurable, and collaborative. The TALEA Green Cell system serves as a catalyst for improving the well-being of vulnerable communities and supports urban green transition plans. Its strategic ambition is to drive lasting socio-economic transformation, creating healthier, more prosperous living conditions for citizens.
The results and data generated by TALEA will be integrated into the Bologna Digital Twin, amplifying their impact, scalability, and potential for replication. Through this approach, TALEA aspires to ensure a durable and measurable transformation in urban resilience and quality of life.
