The tree-covered city, urban biodiversity and certification: towards a demanding convergence

Introduction

The Ville Arborée method, backed by the Label bas-carbone, offers a framework for enhancing the value of urban tree plantations. Supported by the French Ministry of Ecological Transition, the main aim of this scheme is to quantify and certify the carbon sequestration generated by the development of plant cover.

But one tree planted is not enough to restore an ecosystem. While the Ville Arborée method recognizes certain environmental co-benefits (urban cooling, improved air quality, thermal comfort), it does not, to date, constitute a structured biodiversity management tool.

In this context, IRICE is proposing a possible link between this carbon method and the Effinature biodiversity certification standards, with a view to strategic complementarity.

1. What the Ville Arborée method really covers

The Ville Arborée method is based on a clear perimeter:

• carbon enhancement of urban tree and shrub plantations ;
• 25 to 30-year commitments with audits at 5, 15 and 25 years;
• eligibility restricted to urban areas defined by INSEE ;
• obligation of additionality (plantings not required by local planning regulations).

The indicators mainly concern :

• number and type of trees planted,
• their location,
• their carbon sequestration potential,
• and associated maintenance practices.

Biodiversity is mentioned as a potential co-benefit. Biodiversity is neither a main objective nor an independent driving force.

2. What the method doesn't cover: biodiversity, soil, fauna, continuity, etc.

Urban biodiversity is not limited to the tree layer. It depends on many factors:

• diversity of plant strata (herbaceous, shrubby, arboreal) ;
• ecological continuity (connectivity, green and brown grids) ;
• soil quality (porosity, microbiology, presence of litter) ;
• presence and maintenance of wildlife (pollinators, birds, target species) ;
• ecological compatibility of planted species.

At this stage, the Ville Arborée method does not offer a faunistic analysis grid, a long-term ecological management plan or an independent naturalistic monitoring protocol.

3. The contribution of Effinature certifications

IRICE, as an accredited certifier, is responsible for the Effinature standards, broken down by phase (design, construction, operation) and by type of operation (new construction, renovation, space management).

Effinature certifications are based on :

• an assessment of actual impacts on biodiversity,
• project management using objective ecological indicators,
• a minimum 25-year management plan,
• requirements on living soils, habitats, local fauna and plant species.

The audits are carried out by IRICE, according to a standardized, documented and enforceable methodology.

4. Structured compatibility: carbon labeling and biodiversity certification

Far from being mutually exclusive, the two approaches can be rigorously articulated:

• The Ville Arborée method assesses the carbon impact of a green development;
• Effinature certification monitors its real impact on biodiversity.

In this context, IRICE offers a complementary certification path for Tree City projects that wish to go further:

• initial biodiversity diagnosis (ARKENOR)
• Ecological consulting (ARKENOR) and technical modeling (ARKEMEP)
• Effinature certification (IRICE) with 25-year audit

This combination offers project owners a double recognition:

• carbon emissions (Bas-Carbone label),
• biodiversity (Effinature).

5. Conclusion

Today, urban greening must respond to a dual imperative: sequestering carbon and restoring ecosystems.

The Ville Arborée method is a useful tool in the first case. For the latter, only independent certification, based on sound, audited ecological criteria, can provide the necessary guarantees.

IRICE offers project owners and local authorities a clear link between the two approaches. Each plantation can thus become part of a virtuous carbon trajectory and a controlled, measured, sustainable ecological cycle.