As our cities grapple with the ever-growing challenges of urban heat islands and climate change, innovative solutions are emerging to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures. One such solution gaining momentum is the integration of green facade systems into urban landscapes. These living walls not only add aesthetic value but also offer a range of environmental benefits, including the cooling of urban microclimates.
In a recent interview, we had the privilege of speaking with two esteemed researchers at the forefront of this field: Professor Sanda Lenzholzer, Full Professor at Wageningen University, and Maricruz Solera Jimenez, a PhD candidate and researcher within the European Industrial doctorate project SOLOCLIM at Wageningen University.
Global Warming and Urban Heat Islands
The rising temperature on Earth poses a dire threat to our ecosystem and human society. As temperatures continue to rise, we witness a troubling increase in extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, droughts, and intense storms. These changes have a devastating impact on agriculture, biodiversity and can lead to water and food shortages, as well as forced migration of people.
In cities, the phenomenon known as the ‘urban heat island effect’ is exacerbated by global warming. Urbanization, asphalt, and concrete absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, resulting in urban areas remaining much warmer than surrounding rural areas. This gives rise to a range of issues, including health risks such as heat-related illnesses, failing infrastructure and increased energy consumption for cooling. Moreover, the urban heat island effect can exacerbate social inequality as vulnerable communities such as the elderly and low-income groups often bear the brunt of the extreme heat.
It is evident that global warming and the urban heat island effect are urgent issues that require serious attention and action, both at the local and global levels. We must commit to sustainable solutions such as greening urban areas, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, and taking measures to mitigate climate change and adapt to changing conditions.
