Toulouse, facing severe heatwaves with temperatures reaching 42.4°C in 2023, is tackling the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect through the LIFE Green Heart project. This €3.8 million initiative aims to lower temperatures by 3°C in the 30-hectare Îles du Ramier district, part of a €100 million public-private effort to create a 'green lung' that reduces heat, boosts biodiversity, and provides relief. 

The project addresses the UHI effect exacerbated by buildings and roads, rather than pollution. It includes removing parking spaces for tree planting to capture CO2 and mitigate heat. Funded under the Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation program, it enjoys broad political support and aims to enhance urban resilience.

LIFE Green Heart is funded by the Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation sub-programme, which aids public authorities, NGOs, and businesses in adopting sustainable and climate-resilient practices. Applications for 2024 funding are open until September 17.