Urban Afforestation as Spatial Strategy: Applied Design Research on the Eastern Greenway in Rome

Urban forestation has become a key policy tool for addressing contemporary environmental, climatic, and social challenges. In Italy—particularly in Rome—recent climate mitigation and environmental improvement initiatives have promoted afforestation through predominantly quantitative approaches. Yet, increasing tree numbers alone is insufficient to enhance urban environmental quality or create more livable and resilient cities. An effective strategy requires a spatial and cultural vision that integrates vegetation with urban form and everyday collective life. This paper frames urban afforestation as a strategic instrument of territorial transformation, landscape design, and social regeneration. It critically examines afforestation policies implemented in Rome and the Lazio Region and compares them with international experiences in Medellín, Philadelphia, and Milan. The study highlights current program weaknesses and emphasizes the need for integrated planning and design frameworks capable of generating qualitative improvements in urban space alongside quantitative gains. The Serenissima Park case study illustrates how afforestation can function as a “green infrastructure architecture,” connecting ecological systems, urban fabrics, and communities, and supporting climate adaptation, sustainable mobility, and social inclusion.