13:18 10 May 2025
Savills Highlights Urgent Need for Cities to Adapt to Rising Temperatures in Impacts Report
Savills, a leading global real estate advisory firm, emphasizes in its annual IMPACTS report the critical need for cities to adapt to rising temperatures and increasingly frequent extreme heatwaves. With 2024 being the hottest year on record – global average temperatures surpassing pre-industrial levels by over 1.5°C – the urgency to implement climate resilience strategies has never been greater.
“Global temperatures are reaching record highs, and cities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events. Urban and building adaptation is essential, regardless of the season,” Ilona Otoka, Head of ESG & Sustainability at Savills Poland, said.
The City Heat Resilience Index, included in the report, ranks 30 global cities by their ability to manage heat risks. Topping the list are Helsinki, Copenhagen, and Stockholm – cities that combine favorable geographic conditions with advanced urban planning, strong policy frameworks, and integrated green infrastructure. These Scandinavian capitals stand out for their long-term climate strategies, including reflective building materials, extensive green spaces, and community-based adaptation programs.
Savills underscores the importance of green and blue infrastructure, reflective surfaces, and passive cooling designs to mitigate urban heat.
(WBJ)
