In 2025, more than 45% of the global population made their home in cities,
according to the UN’s World Urbanization Prospects. Nowhere is the impact of
extreme heat more acute than in the cities. What actions can cities take to
tackle the deadliest climate risks of our times?
As part of its Cool Talk series, UNEP’s Cool Coalition hosted a webinar
spotlighting new research from University of Michigan in Brazil, Colombia and
Burkina Faso about how passive cooling can reduce indoor heat exposure in
informal urban settlements. The panel focused on the systems needed to
scale local heat action across cities, communities and institutions. Speakers
included leaders from the Red Cross and Red Crescent Climate Centre, National Biodiversity
Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP) Accelerator Partnership and UNEP’s Beat
the Heat. Each shared insights on what practical city and community action – from
housing improvements to heat governance – can look like.
Key takeaways:
• Passive cooling can reduce heat risk without increasing energy
demand;
• Community engagement is essential for effective local action; and
• Cities need integrated approaches that connect health, nature,
planning, energy and climate policy.
