Stefano Boeri Architetti's “Green Obsession” Wins Prestigious United Nations SDG Action Awards
“Green Obsession,” a visionary project by Stefano Boeri Architetti, has been crowned the winner of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Action Awards, sometimes referred to as the “Oscar” of the UN’s 17 SDGs. This recognition is awarded to those initiatives that effectively mobilize, inspire, and connect communities for the cause of creating a positive global impact.
The award-winning philosophy focuses on changing conventional city paradigms by emphasizing the importance of urban forests and green spaces for governments worldwide. Selected from more than 5,000 entries from 190 countries, “Green Obsession” stood out for its commitment to promoting a greener future for all.
Reshaping Urban Landscapes: From Bosco Verticale to Green Obsession
Designed to strengthen the bond between nature and urban landscapes, “Green Obsession” is more than an architectural concept—it’s a design philosophy that shapes the activity of Stefano Boeri Architetti. Originating from the experiences gathered from the internationally recognized Bosco Verticale in Milan, a striking representation of the symbiotic relationship between urbanity and living nature, the philosophy extends to the design of numerous architectural and urban planning projects. The studio aims to implement urban forestry strategies globally.
“Green Obsession” not only exposes the processes and intricacies involved in creating a new kind of urbanism, but it also proposes an alternative pathway and paradigm shift to confront the environmental crisis from the perspective of ecological transition.
Maria Chiara Pastore, Head of the Research Department of Stefano Boeri Architetti and Researcher at the Milan Politecnico, who accepted the award, said, “Green Obsession envisages a future where cities are metamorphosed with rooftop gardens, community gardens, urban agriculture, and tree-lined streets. It’s not about isolated projects; it’s about fostering a transformative urban forestry strategy to shape a new vision for the future of the global urban landscape.”
Aligning with the SDGs
Winning in the INSPIRE category, “Green Obsession” aligns with the key objectives of SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action). It champions an innovative perspective on urban living that encourages global collaboration, supports transformative policy actions, and nurtures the development of ecological corridors within urban settings.
Architect Stefano Boeri expressed his joy at the recognition, saying, “Green Obsession represents 20 years of dedication to bringing living nature, trees, and forests into our cities. Our strategy focuses on enhancing biodiversity and the cohabitation of living species—two major challenges in our transition towards ecological sustainability and reducing climate change damage. We envision a future where greenery adorns squares, courtyards, avenues, rooftops, and facades of homes.”
Celebrating Sustainability Advocates
The UN SDG Action Awards have become a notable platform to celebrate individuals and initiatives inspiring change and driving action for the SDGs as the world approaches the midpoint of Agenda 2030.
Marina Ponti, Global Director of the UN SDG Action Campaign, stated, “As we approach the pivotal midpoint of Agenda 2030, the 2023 UN SDG Action Awards offer an opportunity to honor those extraordinary individuals who are making significant strides towards a more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive future.”
The UN SDG Action Campaign, hosted by the UNDP, seeks to unite people worldwide in the fight to achieve the SDGs. This campaign involves civil society, local governments, the arts and culture, media, and private sectors in the pursuit of sustainability in homes, communities, and beyond. By rewarding initiatives like Stefano Boeri Architetti’s “Green Obsession,” the campaign continues to mobilize, inspire, and connect people and organizations globally to make the SDGs a reality.