[The role of urban planning in reducing the negative impact of heat on human health in a changing climate].

Abstract

Increasing heat is the largest direct health risk associated with climate change, and urban environments exacerbate the problem through the urban heat island effect. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, children, and socially disadvantaged populations, are particularly at risk. Densification policies may contribute to more sustainable cities but can at the same time increase heat exposure by limiting green spaces. While solutions like tree planting can mitigate heat, they must be balanced with competing urban development needs. Climate adaptation measures, such as urban greening, should be implemented with a justice perspective to avoid reinforcing social inequalities. Moving forward, urban planning strategies must integrate climate adaptation with public health to reduce heat-related health risks and create more sustainable, liveable cities. Green spaces not only help lower urban temperatures but also provide other health benefits such as promoting physical activity and stress relief.