The study, published in the journal Nature Climate Change, found that cities in these regions lack the cooling effect of trees and other vegetation, leading to higher temperatures. This lack of green spaces is a major contributor to the health risks associated with heat waves, such as heat stroke and dehydration. The study also found that the lack of green spaces in these cities is a major contributor to the health risks associated with heat waves, such as heat stroke and dehydration. The study highlights the urgent need for investment in urban green spaces, particularly in low and middle-income countries.

Cooling capacity is a key indicator of a city’s resilience to heatwaves and can potentially reduce the economic burden of heat-related illnesses. The study found that large cities, especially in the Global South, have a significant capacity for urban cooling. However, equitable access to this cooling capacity is a major challenge. This is because many urban green spaces are poorly managed or lack the necessary infrastructure to deliver cooling benefits, such as water management systems, shade structures, or public access. The study suggests that improving urban green spaces with innovative technologies, such as smart irrigation systems, can unlock their full cooling potential.

This is because higher population density leads to more heat-trapping buildings and a greater concentration of people, which in turn increases the amount of heat generated.

* Urban green spaces are essential for mitigating climate change and promoting biodiversity. * Urban green spaces can help reduce the urban heat island effect. * Urban green spaces can provide habitat for various species. * Urban green spaces can improve air quality. * Urban green spaces can help reduce flooding risks.

This statement highlights the critical role of urban green infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of extreme heat on cities. **Urban green infrastructure (UGI)** refers to the design and implementation of natural elements within urban environments, such as parks, trees, green roofs, and urban gardens. These elements provide a range of benefits, including:

* **Cooling effect:** UGIs absorb and reflect sunlight, reducing the urban heat island effect.

**Gelete** argues that green spaces are essential for urban sustainability and that their expansion and equitable distribution are crucial for improving the quality of life in cities. **Green infrastructure** refers to the use of natural elements like trees, wetlands, and green roofs to manage stormwater, reduce pollution, and enhance biodiversity. **Green spaces** are areas of land dedicated to the purpose of providing recreational, aesthetic, and ecological benefits.