health
Adapting to the heat: four ideas from European cities
From checking on older neighbours to greening spaces, some cities are stepping up efforts to keep people safe
TL;DR
- Organized welfare checks for vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly, are being implemented in cities like Paris and across Denmark.
- Public buildings such as schools, museums, and libraries are being repurposed as cooling centers in cities like Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam, and Vienna.
- Architectural and behavioral adaptations include painting buildings white, installing external shutters and awnings, and utilizing shading sails.
- Urban greening efforts, such as planting trees and creating green spaces, are cooling cities like Paris and providing shade.
- Promoting active travel and reducing car usage contributes to lower urban temperatures and improved public health.