Minister Demir (N-VA) impatient about the absence of Antwerp bo… (Antwerp)
The Flemish Minister for the Environment of Zuhal Demir (N-VA) has no plan for her Flemish Forest Plan. “Cities play an important role in countering the text,” says Demir.
Demir is making 122 million euros available for the creation of extra forests in Flanders. In her Forest Plan she has the ambition to plant 4,000 hectares of net forest by 2024. The Flemish government and local authorities are responsible for 2,000 hectares. However, the minister is somewhat concerned about the details of the cities of Ghent and Antwerp.
“I see few goals from the city of Antwerp to actually create more forests, such as an urban fringe forest”, Demir. “Cities have an important responsibility, especially with regard to the effects on catching waves and counteracting heat islands. Forests are the natural air conditioning. I have released 122 million euros. It would be a shame if the cities don’t use it.”
No need to worry
According to Antwerp alderman of Groen Els van Doesburg (N-VA), the minister should not be concerned. Antwerp will appeal to the Flemish Forest Plan.
“Some land has been acquired, for others negotiations are still ongoing, including with the Flemish government,” says Michael Lescroart, words of the aldermen. “It mainly concerns smaller plots. In addition, the city is committed to creating more green space and more trees to combat heat islands in the city, up to the neighborhood level. Antwerp is unique with its port and densely populated areas. With no less than 78 percent, Antwerp is the most densely built-up city in Flanders.”
The Flemish product is 28 percent and in Ghent it is 66 percent. svw