Rue de la Loi and Schuman roundabout Brussels

Right in the heart of the European Quarter in Brussels are the rue de la Loi and Place Schuman, better known as the Rondpunt. Around these major thoroughfares are prominent government and European institutions, such as the European Commission and the Council of the European Union. On the Rue de la Loi, between Place Shuman and Cinquantenaire Park, the artwork 'Wounded but always standing up in the face of the incomprehensible' was unveiled in 2017. This memorial, created by Belgian artist Jean-Henri Compère, serves to commemorate the victims of the terrorist attacks in Brussels and at Zaventem airport. Consisting of an impressive sculpture, the artwork symbolises resilience and perseverance in the face of tragedy.

On both sides of this monument are rows of trees in containers, carefully selected to beautify the surroundings and improve air quality. Multi-stemmed Betula nigra (river birch) was chosen for its graceful appearance and adaptability to urban conditions. The under-planting consists of Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Moudry', an ornamental grass with dark spikes, and Stipa tenuissima 'Ponytails', a fine-leaved ornamental grass that adds a sense of movement and softness to the scene.

The installation of these plantings around the monument was carried out by Krinkels NV. The trees and plants not only provide visual support to the memorial, but also contribute to the greening of the urban environment. They play an important role in improving air quality by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen. Moreover, they promote urban biodiversity by providing habitat for various insects and birds. Greenery also helps reduce the heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to the abundance of asphalt and concrete. The trees and plants absorb sunlight and evaporate water, cooling the environment. This makes the Rue de la Loi, despite its busy and concrete nature, a more pleasant place for both residents and visitors.

The presence of these green elements in the European Quarter underlines the importance of sustainability and well-being in urban planning. It offers a moment of calm and reflection in a hectic environment and highlights the resilience of the city and its inhabitants in the face of tragic events. Thus, not only the aesthetics, but also the livability of the Rue de la Loi and Place Schuman are significantly improved.