Ukrainian cities are facing a serious climate threat: in built-up areas, air temperatures can exceed those in the suburbs by 5 degrees or more. This phenomenon, known as the 'urban heat island,' turns urbanized territories into risk zones due to excessive construction and a lack of greenery.
Sofia Sadogurska, an expert from the climate department of the public organization 'Ekodia,' told RBC-Ukraine in an interview how to adapt cities to extreme heat and why ignoring the problem is fraught with consequences for residents' health.
Nature-based solutions as a lifeline
To combat air overheating, experts suggest abandoning traditional methods in favor of nature-based solutions. They not only cool the environment but also contribute to air purification. As Sadogurska notes, everyone knows that it is cooler in a park than on concrete squares. However, implementing this principle requires a comprehensive approach.
Effective measures include:
- Creating new green zones and preserving existing ones.
- Restoring the natural course of rivers.
- Arranging 'rain gardens'.
- Installing green roofs and walls, which can reduce temperatures inside buildings.
Special attention is paid to 'rain gardens.' This is an innovative method replacing traditional water drainage. Instead of dumping precipitation into the sewer, special green zones are created that naturally absorb moisture, regulating the microclimate.
The psychological aspect and mental health
The importance of such spaces goes beyond climate adaptation. In the context of war, access to a comfortable, cool, and green environment becomes critically important for the mental health of Ukrainians. Green zones help reduce stress levels and create a sense of security.
Technology guarding the climate
To effectively combat the heat, cities need to use modern monitoring tools. Analyzing satellite data allows for the precise identification of areas that overheat the most — for example, squares paved with concrete. This makes it possible to strategically plan infrastructure changes.
Furthermore, forecasting helps assess the vulnerability of cities not only to heat but also to other climate risks. If a certain location is regularly flooded during heavy rains, the data helps understand the need for urgent work on this area to minimize risks in the future.
What should residents do?
Although climate change is often perceived as a global problem, its consequences are felt at the local level. The expert advises residents not to stand aside. The main advice is to unite and raise issues of climate adaptation at the level of local authorities.
"People often feel the consequences of these changes, but do not always associate them with the climate context," Sadogurska summarizes. Involving experts and active dialogue with authorities can be the first step towards creating a more comfortable and safe urban environment.