Building Stock

The building heritage represents a fundamental component of the territorial, cultural, and social identity of every community. However, in an era marked by increasingly urgent environmental challenges, it is essential to rethink the way buildings are designed, renovated, and managed. Sustainability is no longer an option but an essential direction: it means reducing environmental impact, improving energy efficiency, enhancing the use of eco‑friendly materials, and promoting the well‑being of the people who live and work in built environments.

The University of Parma has long embarked on a concrete path toward green building, through projects that combine innovation, environmental responsibility, and the enhancement of existing structures. From the energy retrofitting of public buildings to the adoption of low‑impact technologies, every intervention is designed to generate long‑lasting value in harmony with the territory and its resources.

This page brings together experiences, best practices, and future perspectives, with the aim of sharing a model of responsible building development capable of meeting present needs without compromising those of future generations.

Enhancing Outdoor Spaces for a More Sustainable University

As part of its ongoing commitment to increasingly sustainable management of built and open spaces, the University of Parma recognizes the central role of its outdoor areas and green spaces.

The project includes an in‑depth survey of the various types of open spaces across the University’s campuses, aimed at identifying the main critical issues and potential of green areas, pathways, and existing outdoor furnishings.

The analysis covers different categories of green spaces — historical, designed, residual, or undergoing transformation — along with lawns, flowerbeds, green walls, and tree and shrub vegetation. At the same time, walkways, permeable and impermeable surfaces, outdoor furniture, and lighting are examined to assess their condition, functionality, and integration with the surrounding context. Special attention is also given to infrastructural elements and visual mitigation conditions, with the goal of improving the perceptual and environmental quality of the campuses.

This comprehensive assessment will guide redevelopment actions that combine sustainability, usability, and enhancement of the University’s heritage. The aim is to make the outdoor spaces of the various campuses increasingly welcoming, inclusive, and connected with the city, in line with the University’s vision of promoting community well‑being and protecting the local environment.

Restoration and Enhancement Works of the Historic Garden of the Botanical Garden

The restoration and enhancement works of the Historic Garden of the University of Parma’s Botanical Garden aim to recover and revitalise one of the most significant sites within the University’s scientific and cultural heritage. The project includes the restoration of historic structures, the redevelopment of botanical collections, and the improvement of spaces dedicated to research, teaching, and public engagement.

The goal is to return to the city a renewed garden—more accessible and more sustainable—capable of combining biodiversity conservation, landscape enhancement, and the dissemination of knowledge.

Relazione restauro valorizzazaione giardino storico Orto Botanico.pdf