Cities taking the Heat: Adaptation and Heatwave Preparedness in Europe
Cities taking the Heat: Adaptation and Heatwave Preparedness in Europe

Author(s): Katarína Svitková
Subject(s): Environmental and Energy policy
Published by: EUROPEUM - Institut pro evropskou politiku
Keywords: heatwaves; heat mitigation;
Summary/Abstract: This paper has four main objectives, reflected in its structure as follows: first, to explore the impacts of heatwaves upon cities and urban populations in general, placing it in the wider context of climate change and how it falls within the wider EU policy priorities. The second objective is to introduce the most relevant types of adaptation measures designed to counter the impacts of urban heat. The interventions discussed most notably include nature-based solutions. While green infrastructure harnesses the power of greenery, blue infrastructure builds on the potential of water. Heatwaves pose a serious challenge for urban areas when it comes to infrastructure, economy, public health and ecosystems. The third objective is to explore the most effective measures of heatwave mitigation, drawing on examples from cities regularly affected by extreme seasonal heat. Finally, the fourth objective is to open the question of governance and public awareness. Specifically, the paper puts forward the importance of political leadership, crisis management and public engagement in facing climate emergencies such as heatwaves.

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