Heat is the biggest challenge for cities in 2025

2024 has become the hottest year in the history of observations – the average temperature of the planet has already exceeded the pre-industrial level by 1.55°C. These are not just numbers, these are data from the World Meteorological Organization. Our world is becoming not only warmer, but also more dangerous for the lives of each of us. Cities are especially feeling this change – they are heating up twice as fast as the global average. The reasons for this are rapid urbanization, asphalt surfaces, dense construction and concentrated energy consumption. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized, cities “bear the greatest burden of heat”, which is exacerbated by the so-called “urban heat island” effect. Even before the beginning of summer in 2025, the temperature in many cities around the world had already reached over 45°C: from Brazil to India and South Sudan. The duration and intensity of heat waves are increasing, which makes the issue of adapting cities to these changes extremely relevant.

On May 27, in Geneva, as part of Heat Action Day, experts from around the world discussed how cities can reduce the impact of heat and become more resilient to climate challenges. One of the most powerful solutions is the creation of city heat coalitions. These are not just organizations, but real partnerships that bring together local governments, universities, civil society organizations, faith communities, the private sector and volunteers – everyone who is ready to act together. Examples of such coalitions are in the cities of Choluteca (Honduras), Surabaya (Indonesia), and Tonga (Tanzania). Despite limited resources, these cities are already implementing low-cost but effective solutions to reduce heat. Another idea that has proven effective is night-time heat shelters. During a heat wave in India in 2021, centers were set up where people could safely spend the night in the cool. This solution proved to be more effective than day care centers, which remained empty due to problems with transport, security and accessibility. The event paid special attention to women who work outdoors – farmers, traders, market workers.
A unique heat risk insurance program has been developed for them, which is financed by:
• 14% – contributions from the women themselves,
• 60% – philanthropic organizations,
• the rest – international partners and technical support from Swiss Re.

This project, implemented by the Climate Resilience for All team, shows that effective solutions can be not only humane, but also financially sustainable.
Comment by Anastasia Tsibuli, eco-activist and founder of Glossary Eco Foundation: “Is there a magic solution to urban heat? No, but there are real and comprehensive approaches that already work and can be adapted even in cities with limited resources. This is the integration of a climate approach into all areas of urban life: from repairs and reconstructions to the creation of “cool zones” in schools, libraries, hospitals. It is important to remember that maintaining infrastructure is no less important than building it. There is the experience of Athens, where three climate plans have already been implemented thanks to the cooperation of the authorities with universities, businesses and public organizations. They are part of international networks that exchange experiences and learn from each other. The same is happening in Freetown, where high-ranking officials and community representatives gathered at the city summit on heat issues, because real changes are possible where politics and human stories meet. The heat challenge is not only about temperature. It is about people who can change the system and stay true to these changes”.

What can cities with limited budgets do? The simplest thing is to create a city coalition: invite universities, communities, religious organizations, media, businesses to work together. This does not require large expenses, but gives a powerful impetus for change. An example is Nepalgunj in Nepal, which with a limited budget has become a leader in planning measures against heat, inspiring neighboring cities.
Required tools to start:
• Early warning systems using channels that people trust
• Using local knowledge and community experience.
• Engaging and building trust – because they respond not only to data, but also to leadership.

“Data is the currency of adaptation,” Anastasia emphasizes. Heat-related mortality is often not recorded, and this needs to change. Heat is not only a climate challenge, but also a test of our solidarity, willingness to cooperate and support each other. Cities are already changing cities today, and you don’t have to be a metropolis to start this journey.