Greening Bovisa: Striking the balance in urban revitalization Exploring citizens’ perspectives in Milan’s Bovisa district on green urban regeneration, gentrification, and the right to the city

The city of Milan stands today as a prominent model of sustainable urban development. Yet, beneath its allure lies a paradox: the quest for 'green' and 'smart' development has exacerbated privatization and fueled debates on green gentrification, social equity, and urban accessibility. This research explores the emerging impacts of large-scale green urbanization intervention in the Bovisa district using the theory of urban environmental justice, green gentrification, and right to the city. Through 17 semi-structured interviews, it clarifies citizens' perspectives on the social, economic, and environmental complexities of the redevelopment. The findings reveal a mismatch between developers’ vision and the desires and needs of residents, raising significant questions about the right to the city, and access to and perceived value of green spaces. The prevalent concern that Bovisa will become an enclave of environmental privilege underscores the need for the Milan Model to integrate citizens’ lived experiences into governance processes.