October 5, 2020
Heatwaves and Resilience in Shanghai, China
As one of the most densely populated cities in the world, Shanghai is especially vulnerable to heatwaves. The urban heat island (UHI) effect is heightening the severity of heat events in the centre which are occurring with increased severity, frequency and duration. The exorbitant swell in air conditioning usage among residents in response points to the need for more sustainable, resilient solutions. This report investigates the impacts of heatwaves relating to the current urban layout, climate change and waste management in Shanghai. Furthermore, the negative effects on the water supply, on human health and related ethical implications are analyzed. Proposed solutions are organized into impact and driving force solutions. Impact solutions consist of increased urban vegetation, the uptake of passive building principles and community-based care networks. Driving force solutions include decarbonizing the power supply, more stringent waste management systems and nutrient management improvements through education and new technology. Additional resources are provided on projected heat wave trends internationally, the evolution in the growth of Shanghai and on the potential for “cool roofing” to mitigate the UHI.