Facing the Heat In Surabaya, Fighting the Climate Crisis

Addressing the increasing heat in cities like Surabaya requires a multifaceted approach. Urban planners are starting to realize the importance of incorporating more green spaces in city design. Parks, shady streets and rooftop gardens can help reduce the UHI effect by absorbing less heat than concrete and releasing moisture into the air.

Reducing vehicle emissions is also an important step. Encouraging the use of public transportation, switching to electric vehicles, and implementing stricter emission controls can reduce some of the pollution that exacerbates the heat in Surabaya. These efforts should be in line with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the overall impact of climate change.

As the impacts of climate change become more apparent in cities like Surabaya, it is important to recognize the unique challenges facing urban environments. A combination of local factors-such as geographic location, urban density, and pollution-together with global warming trends exacerbate the discomfort and health risks posed by extreme heat. By adopting greener infrastructure and reducing emissions, cities can begin to mitigate some of the impacts of climate change, making life more comfortable for their residents.

The global climate crisis is a shared responsibility, but its impacts are felt differently depending on where one lives. In Surabaya, the heat is a daily reminder of the need for urgent action, both at a local and global level.

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REFERENCES

Hill, E.A., Gudmundsson, G.H. & Chandler, D.M. Ocean warming as a trigger for irreversible retreat of the Antarctic ice sheet. Nat. Clim. Chang. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-02134-8