Urban planning to minimize Urban Heat Island (UHI)​

Urbanization affects heat concentration in cities, creating the urban heat island effect (UHI). This phenomenon is predominantly caused by concrete, stone and road surfaces absorbing and retaining energy from the sun. As a result, the urban area is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural area, especially during nighttime. This effect increases energy costs, air pollution levels, and heat-related illness and mortality, particularly for the most vulnerable populations and most vulnerable areas of the city. Urban planning, which determines the city density, morphology and land use is key to mitigate UHI. Moreover, and related to land use, it is well-known that trees and green areas have been proven to cool cities. Additionally, green areas and ‘nature walks’ are increasingly linked to physical and mental health benefits, proving also habitat for animals and enhancing biodiversity.​