Scientific research and pilot projects involving residents and businesses in three neighborhoods in Ghent are leading to a long-term strategy that cities across Europe can adopt.

How can we accelerate the process of softening and greening? What are the barriers and how can we overcome them? What innovative ways are there to finance desealing projects and limit the associated costs? And can we address regulations that hinder de-paving or encourage additional paving? The research questions within Rewild the City cover a wide range of different aspects. The results should lead to a clear and well-founded long-term strategy.

At the same time, unlocking and analyzing existing and new data plays a crucial role. This gives data-driven policy-making a strong boost. The City of Ghent and its partners are investigating which variables, such as the amount of greenery or the risk of heat and flooding, they need to consider in order to determine where they should prioritize de-paving and avoid additional paving. University of Antwerp is working on innovative financing solutions for greening cities