Toulouse: the green reconquest has begun on the Ile du Ramier
As part of the Grand Parc Garonne project, after the destruction of the former Parc des Expositions, Le Ramier continues to change. To become within three years the green lung of the Pink City. A major ecological issue.
It’s urgent ! The revegetation of the Ile du Ramier is not only an aesthetic amenity project in the heart of Toulouse. It also responds to ecological issues and the challenges of warming the air we breathe. The diagnosis is clear. Current climate models predict an average local temperature increase of 4°C by the end of the century in the Pink City. A threat that the “Life Green Heart” program, for which the Toulouse metropolis has been selected, wants to keep at bay with the ambition of displaying the 3°C thermometer on the banks of the Garonne and thus bringing beneficial cooling to the surrounding districts. It is therefore a question, by developing this vast green space of 13 hectares, of rethinking the priorities of public policies to fight against heat islands, green the city, improve air quality, decarbonize transport, while guaranteeing the attractiveness of the metropolis by pursuing development projects, such as the Grand Parc Garonne here.
Climate models predict a 4°C rise
in Toulouse by the end of the century
The deconstruction of the former Parc des Expositions last year marked an important stage in the transformation of Le Ramier into the “green lung” of the agglomeration and into a “garden that every Toulouse resident must make their own”, according to the formula of Mayor Jean-Luc Moudenc. But before the deadline set for 2025 for the delivery of this Eldorado, there is a bit of work. Which begins with the reconstitution of soils rich in nutrients and micro-organisms, a prerequisite for the restoration of biodiversity on a site whose soil has been sealed for almost 70 years… An innovative technique has been implemented for the monitoring of this revegetation as part of the “Life Green Heart” project. Researchers specializing in soil microbiology monitor the scientific protocol and the effects of this “renaturation” will be assessed over several years. In particular the evolution of fauna and flora, temperatures and atmospheric pollutants with solar energy sensors, but also noise pollution and the social perception of new developments. “Our ecology is pragmatic, it is made by and for the inhabitants”, recalled Jean-Luc Moudenc. Who would also like to point out that the Ramier development project was co-constructed with them and with user associations, as part of a great deal of consultation”. This is no doubt why it was singled out by the European “Life” programme, which will co-finance the ecological transformation of Le Ramier up to 55% of the amount of eligible work. From now on, Toulouse residents will gradually discover their new environment and the walks along the river that have begun to take shape on the Banlève island to the north and in the powder snow ecopark to the south. While waiting for the four footbridges that will open the island of Ramier to the rest of the city. It’s already tomorrow.
Scouting the Blowing Snow Ecopark
South of Ramier Island, the green revolution has begun. The new Poudrerie ecopark is one of Toulouse’s 162 public gardens, focused on the challenges of the 21st century. This 2-hectare public green space offers shared gardens, a space for exchanging agro-ecological practices and even games for children, while a “gourmet stopover” has been set up and is just waiting for its cook. The Poudrerie ecopark already hosts a garden animated by inhabitants and residents of the island and the district to set up an agriculture that respects the environment and makes them aware of the natural wealth of the site as well as an eco canteen. -responsible and united “the little canteen of the Grand Ramier” where everyone can come and taste sustainable dishes, from seed to plate.