Green Spaces' Critical Role in Mitigating Urban Heat in the Global South

A new study reveals that urban greenery in Global South cities offers only 70% of the cooling capacity compared to their Global North counterparts. This disparity makes these cities more vulnerable to extreme heat, which is exacerbated by rising global temperatures. Researchers suggest enhancing green infrastructure to mitigate heat-related issues.

New research highlights a significant disparity in the cooling capacity provided by urban greenery between cities in the Global South and Global North. With only 70% of the cooling benefit, Southern cities are more susceptible to extreme heat, raising concerns about heat-related illnesses and deaths.

According to a study by an international team including University of Exeter's Timothy M. Lenton, satellite data from 500 global cities show that green spaces can reduce surface temperatures in urban areas by approximately 3 degrees Celsius during warm seasons. The disparity is particularly evident in tropical and sub-tropical cities located near the equator.

The researchers emphasize the importance of enhancing green infrastructure in the Global South, where cities like Mogadishu, Sana'a, and Rosario show significantly lower cooling capacities. Improving urban greenery could mitigate the effects of rising temperatures and reduce inequality.

(With inputs from agencies.)