Amid increasingly severe and frequent heatwaves, Romanian-based Green Parking Solutions has unveiled a practical project to help cities combat soaring urban temperatures. Initially developed as an architectural vision, the idea has since been transformed into a real-world initiative now moving into the implementation stage.
Far from being a distant concept, the innovation offers a modular, sustainable, and city-ready solution that delivers measurable improvements to thermal comfort in urban areas.
Green parking: redefining urban spaces
The initiative centres on “green parking lots” – adaptable structures that generate shade, lower surrounding temperatures, and play a tangible role in reducing heat build-up in cities. These spaces combine climate-resilient planting, permeable paving, and systems for rainwater capture.
The modular units can be seamlessly incorporated into residential districts, civic squares, and commercial zones. Beyond their function as parking areas, they improve visual appeal, cut pollution, regulate rainwater, and limit localised flooding. They also provide habitats that can support urban biodiversity, including native bird species.
Designed to integrate into existing layouts without requiring significant infrastructural change, the solution provides a practical, scalable option for municipalities in search of rapid, impactful interventions.
From concept to delivery
“What sets this project apart is that it has moved beyond the design phase. We are no longer just planning—it’s already being implemented,” said Valentin Rusu, Founder of Green Parking Solutions.
“Our aim was to offer a concrete solution that could be tested and replicated quickly, moving beyond preliminary concepts. These structures are durable, easy to maintain, and most importantly, they deliver measurable outcomes—especially during periods of extreme summer heat,” he added.
Cities need action, not words
Urban heat islands – areas where built-up city zones register significantly higher temperatures than surrounding countryside – are a growing issue across Europe and beyond. Concrete and asphalt absorb and hold heat, while limited green cover reduces natural cooling capacity. This leads to hotter streets, higher energy consumption for cooling, and poorer air quality – with negative consequences for public health.
The integration of green parking is presented as an immediate, scalable response.
While long-term strategies remain crucial, city environments also require visible, fast-acting interventions, particularly in pedestrian areas, transport hubs, and car parks.
By advancing this scheme, the Romanian company is putting forward a climate-resilient infrastructure model that is straightforward to deploy and delivers instant benefits for urban communities.
Cities of tomorrow will need not only to be technologically smart but also resilient to environmental shifts. This project demonstrates that innovation can be embedded in even the most ordinary spaces – including a car park.
Implementation of the first projects is scheduled for 2025, with local authorities, developers, and public institutions expected to benefit most from the new system.
