The environment where you live influences the experienced effect of heat. The picture shows that the temperature in an urban area is higher than in the surrounding rural areas (warm colors in the city and blue colors in the rural areas).

 


The urban structure can aggravate heat risks, especially during the night. This phenomenon is called the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. It can result in night-time air temperatures in large cities that are 3-12 C higher than in surrounding rural areas.  Furthermore, the temperature in the city centre is about 3 degrees Celcius higher than in the surrounding areas. In general the reasons that it is more hot in cities than in surrounding rural areas are:

 The absorption and slow release of heat from buildings and other heat-retaining surfaces (f.i. the use of dark-colored paving or asphalt);

 Residual heat from energy use (f.i. by transport, air conditioners and industrial facilities);

 A lack of vegetation. Vegetation has a cooling effect.  Surrounding areas with more vegetation, fields, and water bodies remain cooler compared to the urban center.

 This is illustrated and explained in the following short movies:


  

 


 

 

To reduce complications from extreme heat and prevent it in urban areas, the involvement of local governments and organizations is crucial. They are responsible for implementing strategies to mitigate the negative effects of heat in the community. By addressing challenges in your own neighborhood, you can contribute to these efforts by engaging with those who are able to enact change. This may involve identifying key stakeholders and collaborating with them to implement solutions. The following video demonstrates how such initiatives can be successfully carried out in a community setting.

  

  

(26 minutes)

If you think this movie is too long, you may want to visit the following website :

https://www.beesmart.city/en/smart-city-blog/smart-cities-heat-waves

 The following measurements can be implemented to mitigate the effects of heat in urban areas :

1. Green Spaces and Urban Forests

  • Planting trees and creating green roofs: Trees and plants provide shade and evaporate water, helping to lower temperatures. Green roofs insulate buildings and reduce the amount of heat radiated by buildings.
  • Expanding parks and green areas: Creating more parks and green spaces can significantly lower urban temperatures while also providing recreational and ecological benefits.

2. Reflective and Cooling Materials

  • Cool roofs and pavements: Using light and reflective materials for roofs and pavements reduces the absorption of solar heat, helping to lower surface temperatures.
  • Cooling paints and materials: Applying special coatings or materials that reflect heat can help reduce the temperature of buildings and infrastructure.

3. Improved Urban Planning

  • Compact and permeable development: Promoting compact urban development with adequate green space, combined with permeable pavements to improve water permeability, can help reduce the urban heat island effect.
  • Integrating water features: Installing fountains, ponds, and other water features can help cool the environment through evaporation and create a more pleasant urban setting.

4. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

  • Green infrastructure: Creating green corridors, green walls, and other forms of green infrastructure can help cool urban areas while also promoting biodiversity.
  • Water management: Improving urban water management, including rainwater harvesting and reducing runoff, can prevent flooding and improve the microclimate.

5. Awareness and Education

  • Public campaigns: Informing the public about the importance of green spaces, water conservation, and energy reduction can encourage behavioral changes that help mitigate the impact of heat.
  • Heat plans: Developing emergency heat plans and setting up cooling zones or shelters can help protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

6. Energy Conservation and Sustainable Energy

  • Promoting energy efficiency: Encouraging energy efficiency in buildings reduces the need for air conditioning, which in turn decreases heat emissions.
  • Sustainable energy sources: Utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power can reduce heat emissions from traditional energy sources.

By implementing a combination of these measures, governments can reduce urban heat, improve the quality of life, and mitigate the negative effects of extreme heat on the population.

  

  


Insert h5p mooc part 3




Apart from interventions in the physical environment, it is also important  to prevent or mitigate the social effects of heat, it's important to focus on strategies that protect vulnerable populations, enhance community resilience, and ensure equitable access to resources. Here are some effective measures:

 



 1. Community Cooling Centers

  • Establish cooling centers: Set up accessible, air-conditioned public spaces such as community centers, libraries, and schools where people can take refuge during extreme heat.
  • Extend hours during heatwaves: Ensure that these centers have extended hours, including overnight access during prolonged heatwaves.

2. Public Awareness Campaigns

  • Educate the public: Launch campaigns to inform communities about the dangers of extreme heat, signs of heat-related illnesses, and how to stay cool and hydrated.
  • Target vulnerable groups: Focus on high-risk populations, such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions, by providing tailored information and resources.

3. Social Support Networks

  • Organize community check-ins: Encourage neighborhood watch programs or volunteer groups to check in on vulnerable neighbors, especially the elderly and those living alone, during heatwaves.
  • Leverage technology: Use apps or phone systems to send heat alerts and health tips directly to residents, ensuring they stay informed and prepared.

4. Access to Water and Hydration

  • Install public water stations: Place water fountains and hydration stations in public spaces, especially in high-traffic areas and during outdoor events.
  • Provide free or subsidized bottled water: Distribute bottled water to homeless individuals and others who may have limited access to clean drinking water.

5. Health Services and Emergency Planning

  • Increase healthcare support: Enhance emergency medical services during heatwaves, with special attention to heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration.
  • Develop heat emergency plans: Create comprehensive heatwave response plans that include clear protocols for public alerts, emergency services, and resource distribution.

6. Policy and Advocacy

  • Implement heat-related labour laws: Enforce regulations that protect outdoor workers, such as mandating breaks, providing access to water, and limiting work during peak heat.
  • Advocate for climate justice: Promote policies that address the disproportionate impact of heat on low-income and marginalized communities, ensuring equitable access to resources and support.

Insert filmpje Josien of Inge

 

 

 

 

 

 

By combining these strategies, communities can reduce the social impact of heat, protect vulnerable populations, and enhance overall resilience to extreme weather conditions

Do you know which organizations you need to contact in your community to inform yourself about the strategies and interventions in your environment?


Last modified: Monday, 11 November 2024, 9:25 AM