Metropolitan Milan is currently developing a number of protected green areas; in fact, in addition to the six regional parks (protected by Regional law no. 394 of 6 December 1991), a network of local parks of supra-municipal interest is gradually expanding, especially throughout North Milan and Brianza: in 2004 there were 11 parks and by the end of 2007 there should be at least 16; others will then be either created or expanded by the end of 2009. These areas are nodes of an eco-network that is due to link the Ticino regional park with that of Adda Nord, according to a strategic project for a green backbone for North Milan.

The Lombardy Region is committed to reforming its own protected areas and is strengthening the agencies that manage them so that they all come under one environmental protection and enhancement plan. This plan aims to involve the local authorities, the business community and environmentalists in reclaiming, improving and protecting green areas.

Another ongoing project is “more woodlands on the plain”, promoted by the Province of Milan. The provincial authorities are, in fact, funding projects to increase woodland in the area by at least 25 per cent over the next ten years. Woodland currently covers over 4 thousand hectares. This project is designed to help improve the quality of life in the area and the urban scenario. 

 Useful links

Lombardy Region parks' sytem
Lombardy Region web site

Province of Milan - Direzione Centrale Risorse Ambientali

Province of Milan - Ambiente news

Municipality of Milano - Green Projects