As early as 2004, Villa Arson committed to an ecological transition, marked by a major first step: the discontinuation of glyphosate use in its gardens. Initiated by Patrice Lorho, head gardener at Villa Arson, this shift continued with the cessation of chemical insecticides in 2009 — eight years before the Labbé Law came into effect in 2017, requiring local authorities to use alternatives to synthetic pesticides in the maintenance of green spaces. In line with this approach, all chemical herbicides were also banned in the following years.
At the same time, lawn surfaces were reduced to make way for plants better suited to the Mediterranean climate. These new plant beds are inspired by the principles of landscape designer Gilles Clément and the advice of Olivier Filippi, a specialist in “dry gardens.” The remaining lawn areas are also being used for trials involving the introduction of plant species that require less water and help promote biodiversity.
Over the past decade, the ecological transition of the gardens has intensified. Compost bins have been made available to users of the site, with the goal of doubling their number in the near future. A comprehensive inventory of the local flora and fauna is also planned, to better understand and highlight the often-overlooked biodiversity of the gardens, while raising awareness among users and visitors of their ecological role. In a neighborhood that has become increasingly dense over the years, Villa Arson and its gardens form a unique biotope and have become a true green lung for the city and its residents.
Over the past decade, the ecological transition of gardens has intensified. Composters have been made available to users of the establishment, with the aim of doubling their number in the short term. A comprehensive inventory of flora and fauna is also planned, in order to better understand and enhance the richness of the often discreet biodiversity of the gardens, and to raise awareness among users and visitors about their role. In a district that has become densely populated over the years, Villa Arson and its gardens constitute a particular biotope and have become a real green lung for the city and its inhabitants.
