How we can tackle urban heat

Explore what can be done to combat rising temperatures in cities at the next Christchurch Conversation: Urban Heat.

Cities across the globe are becoming hotspots as climate change results in heatwaves. The Christchurch Conversation event, organised by Te Pūtahi Centre for Architecture and City-Making and supported by the Council, will look at what can be done to mitigate urban heat and ensure cities are liveable for all.

Te Pūtahi Director Dr Jessica Halliday says Christchurch is like other cities around the

world that are facing increasing number of hot days, with heatwaves increasing in number and magnitude due to climate change.

“The urban heat island effect magnifies temperatures in cities. This puts lives and health at risk, increases energy demand and strains infrastructure and services. All are welcome to come and hear experts talk about how we can collectively address the risks of urban heat in our city."

A panel of four speakers will present at the evening being held on Tuesday 18 August, from 6pm until 7.30pm, in the TSB Space at Tūranga. They include:

• Toby Chapman, Urban Forest Manager at Christchurch City Council
• Bridget Robilliard, Senior Landscape Architect and Kaiārahi, Kamo Marsh
• Dr Rebecca Peer, Associate Head of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Canterbury
• Chair Lianne Dalziel, former Mayor

The conversation will canvass the barriers to planting, retaining and maintaining trees; the potential benefits; how to design for more trees and green spaces while balancing increased density; the role of households, communities, businesses and local government; and the things individuals can do to support canopy cover and a cooler, more sustainable and liveable city.

This is a free public event, but bookings are required. Attendees can join in person or online.