With 2013 as the hottest year on record, and the mercury continuing to climb to record highs, there are urgent calls for increased green space in urban areas to mitigate the impact of heatwaves. The Age spoke to 202020 Vision advocate and sustainable urban development expert Professor Steffen Lehmann this week. He says ”we have to have green roof gardens, green walls, and use materials that reflect the heat”.

Research shows a 10% increase in urban green space can decrease surface temperatures by 4 degrees Celsius, as well as reducing air conditioning costs and emissions. Green spaces could also reduce heat-related fatalities, which are otherwise on the increase.

Read the full article here.

Yours, the 202020 Vision team.