The role of green corridors in mitigating the urban heat island effect

Accelerated climate change and increasing urbanization are placing significant pressure on contemporary cities, threatening their ecological, social, and economic stability. As dense centers of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, cities are also among the most vulnerable areas to the impacts of global warming-particularly through the emergence of heatwaves and the effects of the urban heat island (UHI). In this context, green infrastructure emerges as a key tool for mitigating climate risks and creating more resilient urban environments. Green corridors, in particular, play an essential role as interconnected networks of green spaces that promote air circulation, reduce thermal stress, and enhance urban biodiversity. This paper explores the role of green infrastructure in the process of climate adaptation in urban areas, with a specific focus on planning, implementation, and the outcomes it produces in various contexts. International and national examples of best practices (Barcelona, Milan, Niš) are analyzed, along with the current capacities and limitations in Serbia, particularly in Belgrade. Although strategic documents acknowledge the importance of green systems, the main challenges lie in their effective implementation. The paper highlights the need for an integrated planning approach, strengthened institutional support, and systematic application of green infrastructure measures to ensure sustainable development and urban resilience to climate change.