Extreme Weather: A Global Concern
Extreme weather is no longer uncommon and is a global issue. Europe, which is experiencing the fastest human-caused climate change, counted over 60,000 excess deaths due to heat in 2022 and over 47,000 deaths in 2023. Most of these individuals had underlying health conditions, but the hot temperatures put an additional burden on their bodies.
The Consequences of Climate Change
In 2024, the world experienced the warmest year on record, and the last 10 consecutive years have been the warmest decade. This has significant implications for human health, particularly for older adults, the sick, and children. The consequences of climate change are far-reaching, and it is essential to take immediate action to mitigate its effects.
The Role of Architecture in Mitigating Climate Change
Architects and urban planners can no longer ignore these numbers. According to Carlo Ratti, curator of the 19th Biennale of Venice Architecture, "In order to address a burning world, architecture has to use full intelligence around us." The approach to structure will have to adjust to the changing climate, and the building world must bundle its strengths and knowledge of all its actors.
Sealed Cities Heat Up
The greatest concern is the overheating of urban areas, which are caused by the fact that cities are strongly sealed and covered by concrete and asphalt surfaces. There are too few trees to offer shade and cool them, creating heat islands that lead to overheating. In heavy rain, sealed surfaces also prevent water from penetrating into the ground, leading to the collapse of sewage systems.
Solutions to Mitigate Climate Change
So, what can be done? The problems are known, and solutions have been on the table for a long time. However, it is essential to take action quickly. Successful projects, such as the redesign of Paul-Arnsberg-Platz in Frankfurt, have shown that it is possible to create climate-friendly spaces. The city of Frankfurt has referred to it as "urgently needed climate adjustment."
Paris: A Model for Climate Adjustment
Paris, which has suffered a high number of deaths related to heat, is considered a model for climate adjustment. Mayor Anne Hidalgo has implemented a radical transport revolution, reducing traffic in the city center and tripling parking fees for SUVs. The city has also converted non-sealed parking spaces on the street into breathable green spaces.
Sponge Cities: A Solution to Flooding
Other cities, such as Copenhagen and Rotterdam, are transforming into flood-resistant "sponge cities." These cities are designed to absorb and filter rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding. This approach is essential in mitigating the effects of climate change.
The Need for a Global "Baurevolution"
Elisabeth Endres, professor of construction technology at the University of Braunschweig, is calling for a global "Baurevolution." She believes that it is essential to rethink the way we design and build our cities to mitigate the effects of climate change. The German pavilion at the Biennale of Venice Architecture is showcasing a project that highlights the importance of adapting to climate change.
Adaptation to Climate Change: A Matter of Urgency
The message seems to have already reached many people. Climate activists are taking up urban agriculture, and citizens are being encouraged to contribute to climate protection. Climate-friendly construction has long been a topic of museum exhibitions, and the German Architecture Museum in Frankfurt will present a series of successful projects as part of an exhibition.
The Future of Cities
Will architecture be enough to trigger a new beginning? The impulse will come automatically as the effects of global warming are felt by everyone. Cities that have prepared well will thrive, while others will not. There is already hope that things will change, but it needs to happen much faster, otherwise, European cities will no longer be habitable in a few decades.
