Why Cities in the Global South are More Vulnerable to Rising Temperatures

Introduction

With global temperatures steadily rising due to climate change, the heat burden on cities is becoming more apparent. However, not all cities are impacted equally. According to a recent study published in Nature Communications, cities in the Global South are particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures, lacking the “cooling capacity” that urban greenery provides. This disparity raises concerns about the future livability of these urban centers, where extreme heat already poses significant health risks and socioeconomic challenges. This article delves into why cities in the Global South are more at risk, explores the implications, and suggests potential solutions to mitigate this growing problem.

The Global South’s Heat Vulnerability

The term “Global South” refers to countries in Africa, Latin America, and much of Asia and Oceania, which are often characterized by lower incomes and developing infrastructure. These regions are increasingly bearing the brunt of climate change, with rising temperatures being one of the most immediate and pressing issues.

The study published in Nature Communications finds that cities in the Global South possess only around 70% of the cooling capacity compared to cities in wealthier, northern regions. This cooling capacity is largely dependent on the availability of urban greenery, such as parks and tree-lined streets, which help absorb heat and provide shade. Without sufficient green spaces, surface temperatures in cities rise significantly, exacerbating the urban heat island effect, where urban areas become notably warmer than their rural surroundings【9†source】【10†source】.

The Role of Urban Greenery in Mitigating Heat

Urban greenery, including parks, trees, and green roofs, plays a critical role in reducing temperatures in cities. It can lower surface temperatures by up to 3°C during warm seasons, making urban areas more bearable during heatwaves. However, Global South cities often suffer from a shortage of such green infrastructure. As these cities grow rapidly, urban development is often unplanned, leaving little room for parks and other green spaces. Informal settlements, which house a large proportion of the population in these cities, are particularly affected, as they lack the resources to incorporate greenery【10†source】.

Moreover, the greenery that does exist in these regions is often of poor quality, providing less cooling than needed. For instance, poorly maintained parks, insufficient tree coverage, and the replacement of natural vegetation with concrete all contribute to higher local temperatures.

Extreme Heat and Health Impacts

As the study points out, cities in the Global South are already hotter than their northern counterparts. With climate change expected to exacerbate these conditions, extreme heat could lead to a surge in heat-related illnesses and deaths. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, heatstroke, and exacerbate cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. These health risks are particularly acute for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with preexisting health conditions【9†source】.

In countries like India, where temperatures frequently exceed 40°C during the summer months, the lack of adequate cooling infrastructure exacerbates these risks. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, straining already overburdened healthcare systems. Low-income communities, often living in poorly insulated housing, are particularly vulnerable, as they lack access to air conditioning and other cooling mechanisms【9†source】【10†source】.

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Economic Inequality Exacerbates the Problem

The vulnerability of cities in the Global South is not only a matter of geography but also of economic inequality. Many of these cities have large populations living in informal settlements, where access to basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity is limited. These communities are also more exposed to environmental hazards, including extreme heat.

Economic inequality also affects the capacity of cities to respond to climate change. Wealthier cities can invest in cooling infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and energy-efficient buildings. In contrast, cities in the Global South often struggle to fund even basic services, let alone climate adaptation measures. According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), the rapid urbanization of low- and middle-income countries is straining their already limited resources, making it difficult to prioritize climate resilience【10†source】.

The Urban Heat Island Effect and Its Impact

One of the major factors contributing to rising temperatures in cities is the urban heat island (UHI) effect. This phenomenon occurs when natural land cover is replaced with asphalt, concrete, and buildings, which absorb and retain heat, leading to higher temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings. The UHI effect is more pronounced in cities that lack greenery, and it exacerbates the impact of heatwaves【10†source】.

In Global South cities, the UHI effect is particularly problematic because of their dense populations and the prevalence of informal settlements. These areas often lack green spaces and are built with materials that retain heat, making them significantly hotter than other parts of the city. The lack of ventilation and shade in these areas further intensifies the heat, creating dangerous living conditions during periods of extreme temperatures.

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Strategies for Mitigating Heat in the Global South

Despite the challenges, there are ways to mitigate the rising temperatures in Global South cities. One of the most effective strategies is to invest in urban greenery. Planting trees, creating parks, and promoting green roofs can all help to reduce surface temperatures and provide much-needed shade. Additionally, improving the quality of existing green spaces can enhance their cooling capacity【10†source】.

Governments can also encourage the use of reflective or cool roofing materials that absorb less heat, as well as improve building insulation to reduce indoor temperatures. Furthermore, cities can implement heat action plans, which involve early warning systems, community outreach, and emergency cooling centers to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves.

International organizations and development banks can play a crucial role by providing financial support for climate adaptation projects in Global South cities. Such projects should prioritize the most vulnerable communities and focus on long-term resilience rather than short-term fixes.

Conclusion

As temperatures continue to rise, cities in the Global South face an increasing threat from extreme heat. With limited cooling capacity and a lack of green infrastructure, these cities are more vulnerable to the urban heat island effect and the health risks associated with extreme temperatures. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including investment in urban greenery, improved building materials, and targeted heat action plans.

By taking steps to mitigate rising temperatures now, Global South cities can protect their populations and build more resilient urban environments for the future. However, achieving these goals will require significant financial and political commitment, both from local governments and the international community.

References:

• Nature Communications study on urban heat vulnerability【9†source】.
• World Resources Institute report on urban challenges in the Global South【10†source】.