Climate resilient cities
It´s hot!
How to Think Climate-Resilient Cities
At this time when climate change makes heat waves more frequent and more severe, cities must adapt. Simple changes for everyday life, sometimes ancestral solutions. The few green spaces, construction density, and the accumulation of traffic are favorable places for the increase in temperatures and creating the famous heat island effect. In Madrid, the difference due to these heat islands can be up to eight degrees. The green areas of the city, such as Retiro Park, function as thermal regulators for their area.
I remember reading about the green corridors of Medellín. 36 hectares with 18 green corridors along the main roads and 18 along the watercourses. These areas have already reduced the temperature by up to 4°C. Revegetation is the key to regulating temperatures in cities or also integrating shading elements into the urban fabric. Canopies, awnings, etc. Although the element that provides the most shade is vegetation. It's simple: plant more trees!
And finally, we cannot forget about water in urban design. So fundamental to life. Urban water features have been refreshing and humidifying the air since ancient times, especially when they are in motion. When planning urban growth and its resilience to climate change, water is the fundamental axis.
"Urban greenery is essential to preserve biodiversity in cities and guarantee a sustainable future for all"
Wangari Maathai | Nobel Peace Prize 2004