VdL, IMS Luxembourg Launch 2nd "Trees in the City - Business in Action" Programme

On Tuesday 7 July 2026, the City of Luxembourg (VdL) and IMS Luxembourg presented the second edition of the "Trees in the City – Business in Action" programme during a webinar, inviting local organisations to contribute to the VdL's goal of planting 30,000 trees across the municipal territory by 2030.

The initiative, which will run from October 2026 to January 2027, forms part of the capital's climate and environmental strategy to strengthen its tree heritage and promote the greening of the urban environment. It follows the programme's first edition, during which eight organisations helped plant nearly 150 trees.

Attended by twelve participants, the webinar was opened by Caroline Puls of IMS Luxembourg, who explained that the project was one of several collaborations between IMS and the VdL.

Moving on to presenting the initiative, Manon Bosch, Natural Spaces Manager at the VdL, and Pierre Schmitz, the VdL's Environmental Delegate, explained that the target of planting 30,000 trees by 2030 aligns with both European Union (EU) and national strategies. The target includes trees at least 1.5 metres tall that have been planted since June 2023 through forestry projects, public planting initiatives, tree distribution schemes and partnerships with companies.

Pierre Schmitz highlighted the environmental benefits of expanding the city's tree cover, saying trees help preserve biodiversity, reduce urban heat, mitigate flooding and erosion, improve air quality and create more pleasant public spaces. He added that the city had developed a broader planting strategy based on analyses of heat islands, flood risks, biodiversity corridors and residents' access to green spaces.

Organisations wishing to take part must either own land within Luxembourg City or obtain the landowner's permission before planting. Participants can choose from a catalogue of tree species with high ecological value and suited to the local climate, prepared by the City's Environmental Delegate. The City's Parks Department will then order the selected trees in consultation with participants, while organisations remain responsible for planting and long-term maintenance.

One of the main changes introduced for the second edition is the expansion of participation opportunities. Subject to approval by the College of Aldermen, organisations without land in the capital will also be able to contribute by sponsoring trees or taking part in city-organised planting events.

During the question-and-answer session, organisers explained that one of the main challenges during the first edition had been the logistical preparation required before planting, including preparing the land, coordinating contractors and allowing sufficient time for implementation. They added that more detailed information on tree dimensions would be provided this year after some participants underestimated the size of the trees in the previous edition.

Organisers also confirmed that participants would receive a project roadmap and a recommended list of tree species, along with guidance on the application process and technical requirements.

They added that there is currently no fixed minimum or maximum number of trees organisations may plant, as each proposal will be assessed individually according to site conditions.