The architect warns, "Buildings first, then greenery".

In recent days, architect Alen Žunić has raised concerns about the current approach to urban planning in Croatia, particularly in relation to how cities are adapting to increasingly severe heatwaves. During a segment on N1 Hrvatska's "Pregled dana," hosted by Maja Štrbac, Žunić emphasized the critical need for forward-thinking strategies that prioritize green spaces and sustainable urban design before embarking on large-scale construction projects. He pointed out that many cities are following the wrong sequence—building structures first and then addressing environmental considerations later—which he believes is a major flaw in contemporary urban development.

Žunić highlighted that effective urban planning should begin with creating green areas such as parks, playgrounds, market squares integrated with vegetation, and public spaces that benefit citizens. These elements help mitigate urban heat islands and lower temperatures in densely built environments. According to him, the proper order should involve considering urbanism and greening efforts before proceeding with building structures. However, he noted that this is often reversed in practice, leading to long-term challenges in managing rising temperatures and environmental degradation.

The architect also mentioned that Zagreb benefits from being one of the greenest cities in Europe, largely due to historical decisions made over 150 years ago. At that time, the concept of a "green belt" was implemented, which later influenced the development of the "blue belt" in New Zagreb. This foresight has contributed significantly to the city’s ability to manage heat and maintain a livable environment despite increasing climate pressures.

Žunić explained that the placement of trees can have a substantial impact on urban temperatures. Deciduous trees, for instance, provide shade during the summer months, reducing the amount of direct sunlight and lowering ambient temperatures. In winter, these trees allow more sunlight to reach the ground, contributing to natural heating. By strategically integrating tree planting into urban landscapes, cities can effectively combat rising temperatures and create more comfortable living conditions for their residents.

Beyond the immediate effects of heat management, Žunić also addressed broader issues related to coastal cities and the rising sea levels caused by climate change. He noted that some coastal municipalities are beginning to recognize the importance of green infrastructure and are implementing measures to address the consequences of climate change. Some mayors are not just focusing on creating green islands but are developing entire green corridors that enhance both ecological resilience and urban aesthetics.

The issue of rising sea levels poses significant challenges for coastal regions, where rivers and waterways are increasingly affected by flooding. Žunić suggested that urban planning could offer solutions by designing new waterfront promenades at higher elevations. He cited the Netherlands as a successful example of how countries can adapt to rising seas by using land reclamation techniques to create new territories while simultaneously generating space for production and habitation.

While acknowledging the complexity of these challenges, Žunić expressed optimism about the potential for transformation. He argued that Croatia has the opportunity to adopt similar approaches, especially in areas where existing buildings are underutilized or abandoned. By repurposing these spaces for sustainable development, cities could achieve both environmental and economic benefits. Although the idea might seem ambitious, he stressed that it is achievable with the right planning and commitment from local authorities and communities alike.

As discussions around urban sustainability continue to gain momentum, experts like Žunić are urging policymakers to rethink traditional models of development. Their insights highlight the urgent need for a shift in priorities—from constructing buildings without regard for their environmental impact to creating resilient, eco-friendly urban environments that can withstand future climate challenges. The coming years will likely see increased focus on integrating nature into cityscapes, ensuring that urban growth does not come at the expense of ecological balance.