John,

In recent weeks, extreme heat waves in cities have shut down schools, closed businesses, and caused hundreds of deaths.

The wide-ranging impacts were a tragic reminder that rising temperatures are more than a climate change issue. Extreme heat is a public health issue. It's an economic issue. And because it often has disparate effects on communities that can least afford to adapt, heat is also an equity issue.

Bloomberg Philanthropies is working with mayors and local leaders around the world to help cities cope with rising temperatures and create resilient, healthy urban environments for everyone. Check out our video "Cities vs. Rising Heat" to learn more about this growing challenge, and see some of the innovative solutions being implemented:

Cities vs. Rising Heat is the latest video in our Building the Future series, where we rethink and reimagine big issues in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data-based insights, real-world projects, and the experience and expertise of Bloomberg Philanthropies teams, we explore the challenges of today and share solutions to help improve and save lives for years to come.

The effects of extreme heat on cities is the result of a changing climate, combined with design and policy choices made over many years. Multiple elements can amplify high temperatures, from tree coverage and roof surface colors, to systemic racism in urban planning -- which has a heat legacy that can be seen from space.

Watch to learn more about the challenges cities face as temperatures rise, and see how creative, collaborative strategies can help make cities more livable and vibrant:

https://www.bloomberg.org/videos/how-cities-are-preparing-for-higher-temperatures/

Thanks,

Bloomberg Philanthropies