The **City of Mendoza** is beginning to transform its urban landscape with an innovative project that proposes converting **rooftops and terraces into green spaces**, capable of functioning as **vertical ecological corridors** and new points of [**sustainable tourism**](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/gualeguaychu-fortalece-su-compromiso-con-el-ambiente-la-conservacion-y-el-turismo-sustentable/).
The initiative is called **“Network of Vegetated Terraces as Biodiversity Corridors and Ecotourism at Height”**, aiming to turn the rooftops of urban buildings into **gardens adapted to the local arid climate**, with multiple [**environmental benefits**](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/turismo-en-la-patagonia-santa-cruz-lanza-beneficios-con-reintegros-y-cuotas-sin-interes-para-vacaciones-de-invierno/).
## Nature above the city: climate, flora, and design
The plan includes:
– **Installation of native and adapted species** to create urban habitats
– **Reduction of the heat island effect** through natural cooling
– **Energy savings** in buildings due to improved thermal comfort
– **Restoration of urban biodiversity**
– **Touristic use of historic rooftops**
“We have many valuable buildings that could receive visitors from the heights, while also contributing to the local fauna and flora,” stated **Silvina López**, Municipal Environment coordinator, to Mendoza Post.
## Partnerships to scale the green rooftop model
The project is driven by:
– **Youth Climate Action Fund**
– **City of Mendoza**
– **Bloomberg Philanthropies**
– **CONICET Mendoza, through INAHE**, providing technical-scientific support
Currently in the initial phase, a structural diagnosis has been conducted to assess the **resistance and technical feasibility** of the candidate buildings.
The vegetal infrastructure uses **multilayer systems of membranes, specialized substrates, and adapted plants**, known as **green roofs**.
## Pilot project at Pasaje San Martín
The first prototype will be implemented at the **historic Pasaje San Martín**, which will serve as a replicable model. **Planters and vegetal species** will be installed along with **informative brochures** for visitors and neighbors to learn about the ornamental and functional properties.
The plant species selected for the pilot project include:
– Hyalis argentea
– Nassella tenuissima
– Jarava ichu
– Eustachys sp.
– Verbena rigida
– Sedum spp.
– Aptenia cordifolia
These species stand out for their **low water requirements**, **thermal fixing capacity**, and **attraction of pollinators**, allowing the city to reconnect with its original ecosystems without compromising the structural balance.
## More resilient urban landscape
Vegetated rooftops represent an **effective solution against climate change**, providing green infrastructure that mitigates temperature, improves air quality, and **promotes the integration of nature in densely urbanized spaces**.
At the same time, the strategy adds cultural, heritage, and touristic value to the downtown area of Mendoza.
