The Monsanto Green Corridor extends over approximately 2.5 km, weaving through Lisbon's ecological framework with a network of trails spanning around 40 km. Encompassing an area of 51 hectares, it hosts a plethora of trees, shrubs, gardens, parks, and agricultural spaces. Additionally, it features various amenities such as a children's playground, a skate park, kiosks, cycle paths, and viewpoints.

This corridor links the central Parque Eduardo VII to the expansive Parque Florestal de Monsanto, renowned as Lisbon's "green lung," covering approximately 900 hectares. Apart from verdant expanses, Monsanto boasts three artificial lakes, a Wastewater Treatment Plant, and an Interpretation Center offering numerous environmental education activities.

Initially conceived in the 1970s, this green corridor stands as the pioneer among nine similar pathways that interconnect vital zones of the city. Its creation aligns with efforts to combat climate change and implement the Lisbon Local Biodiversity Action Plan, aiming to elevate biodiversity performance by earmarking 25% of the total area for green spaces by 2025.

Urban green corridors play a pivotal role in facilitating movement and connection across historical, cultural, and scenic landmarks while accommodating diverse activities ranging from environmental conservation to sports, aesthetics, culture, and recreation. They epitomize sustainable urban development by safeguarding biodiversity, curbing the formation of heat islands, and mitigating atmospheric pollution.

Moreover, the presence of cycling lanes fosters eco-friendly transportation methods, promoting sustainable mobility. Beyond their ecological significance, green corridors serve as essential social and cultural hubs, enhancing the well-being of residents through physical exercise and mental rejuvenation. Furthermore, they bolster tourism, thereby stimulating the city's economy, and fostering cultural engagement by providing access to outdoor amphitheaters and similar venues.

https://lisboaparapessoas.pt/guias/vida/corredores-verdes/ 
https://florestas.pt/descobrir/monsanto-um-dos-grandes-parques-florestais-do-seculo-xx/
https://www.lisboa.pt/cidade/ambiente/estrutura-ecologica/corredores-verdes/monsanto
https://lisboaenova.org/plano-de-accao-local-para-a-biodiversidade-em-lisboa/
https://www.iberdrola.com/sustentabilidade/corredor-verde
 

Direct SDGs:

• SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities: Reduction of the city's adverse environmental impact; universal access to public green and safe spaces, inclusive and accessible.
• SDG 13 Climate Action: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
• SDG 15 Life on Land: Prevention of biodiversity threats; sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
   

1. What is the Lisbon Local Biodiversity Action Plan objective?
2. How do green corridors contribute to sustainable city development?
3. How do green corridors contribute culturally and socially? 

The creation of green corridors offers a potential lifeline for urban wildlife by fostering the development of habitats and facilitating connections between different habitat areas. This interconnectedness supports the movement of species, as well as the transfer of matter and energy throughout the urban landscape. Furthermore, green corridors provide several benefits to the city, including the mitigation of dust accumulation, wind protection, and regulation of airflow.

Moreover, these green corridors play a crucial role in regulating temperature fluctuations and atmospheric brightness within the urban environment. They are particularly effective in reducing water and air temperatures by providing shade and facilitating high rates of evapotranspiration. Additionally, green corridors positively influence hydrological processes, thereby reducing the risk of erosion. Furthermore, they promote the circulation and infiltration of rainwater in open spaces, facilitating its utilization and conservation. 
 

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