We support cities and regions in their adaptation to heat waves

We work with public authorities to design and implement solutions that increase urban thermal comfort

Heat waves have become one of the main challenges posed by climate change, with direct impact on health, well-being and the liveability of our cities. Rising temperatures and the increased frequency of extreme weather events means that it is essential for regions to adopt adaptation measures that increase their resilience.

TECNALIA works with public authorities to design and implement solutions that increase urban thermal comfort and reduce exposure to heat. We support cities and regions in the definition of effective strategies to address this challenge through an approach that combines:

• Climate analysis
• Development of high-resolution heat maps
• Support to integrate adaptation into urban planning
• Identification of hot-spots for the deployment of nature-based solutions

Climate shelters and comfortable routes

In this respect, we also identify climate shelters and map out comfortable routes in cities and municipalities. These routes can be designed according to various criteria, such as thermal comfort or accessibility, and they seek to connect the different climate shelters or key locations in urban areas that are most vulnerable to heat.

• Two examples of such projects are in Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz.
• These two cases have served as a reference to draw up the Guide for the Development of Climate Shelter Networks in the Basque Country’, promoted by Ihobe.
• This document provides local authorities with practical tools to identify and activate spaces that offer thermal relief during high temperatures.

Through such initiatives, we are reinforcing our commitment to adaptation to climate change, by supporting cities and regions in building environments that are more resilient, healthier and better prepared for the future.