An ecological transformation: from car park to first urban micro-forest

In March 2021, the triangular square bounded by Rue Billaudel, Rue Fieffé and Rue Françin in Bordeaux went through a spectacular metamorphosis. Once a parking area, this zone became the city's first urban micro-forest. This ambitious project is part of the first season of Bordeaux Grandeur Nature, a City Hall initiative to give nature its place back in urban settings.

After planting three maples during winter, the micro-forest kept growing, this time through art. In May 2023, a ground fresco blending geometric and plant motifs was created by the Bordeaux collective Royal Béton, made up of Duch and Freak City. Made with non-slip outdoor paint, this street-art piece lets cyclists and pedestrians move around safely, while visually extending the micro-forest experience.

A vibrant tribute: the Wangari Muta Maathai micro-forest, a fusion of nature and urban art

This transformation, aimed at creating a cool island in the heart of the city, was backed by a large majority of local residents, who were consulted for the project. They chose to name this new space Wangari Muta Maathai, honoring the Kenyan activist for sustainable development and peace, recipient of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize. The name recalls the strength of her fight against deforestation and pays tribute to this exceptional woman who devoted her life to planting trees.