Climate shelters to combat the high temperatures caused by climate change

In Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, Turin, Florence, Bologna and Pavia, public spaces have been transformed into climate refuges designed to combat extreme heat caused by global warming. These open-air areas offer significantly cooler temperatures, up to 11 degrees Celsius lower than surrounding urban environments, providing relief during periods of intense heat. The initiative, backed by scientific research and supported by local authorities, aims to reduce energy consumption and mitigate the health risks associated with rising temperatures. The concept of climate refuges emerged from a growing awareness of how urban heat islands exacerbate the effects of climate change. As temperatures rise due to both natural factors and human activity, including vehicle emissions and inefficient air conditioning systems, these spaces serve as critical alternatives for vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. The study conducted by the National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Environment (ENEA), funded by Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, has identified and mapped these locations, emphasizing their role in promoting sustainable living practices. The project has also led to the creation of a community dedicated to sharing experiences and knowledge related to the design and maintenance of these climate refuges. Over twenty organizations, including non-profits, research institutes and universities, have expressed interest in joining this network. Among them is the Department of Wellbeing, Health and Environmental Sustainability (Bessa) at the University of Rome “La Sapienza,” which contributes expertise in environmental science and public health. This collaborative approach highlights the interdisciplinary nature of addressing climate-related challenges in urban settings. The research undertaken by ENEA focuses on evaluating the energy efficiency and microclimatic performance of these outdoor spaces. According to Ezilda Costanzo, a researcher at ENEA's Department of Energy Technologies and Renewable Sources, the study employs citizen science methods to gather data on user preferences, comfort levels and subjective experiences. By involving the public directly, the researchers aim to create more responsive and effective solutions tailored to the needs of city dwellers. Beyond cooling functions, the study considers additional aspects such as accessibility, visual and acoustic comfort, safety, social interaction and a sense of belonging. These elements contribute to the overall appeal and acceptance of climate refuges within communities. As Costanzo explains, these factors help ensure that the spaces are not only functional but also socially inclusive, fostering a greater sense of community resilience against the impacts of climate change. Looking ahead, the success of these initiatives could influence future urban planning strategies, encouraging the integration of green spaces and climate-adaptive infrastructure into city designs. With continued support from academic institutions and local governments, the model of climate refuges may expand beyond Italy, offering a replicable solution for other regions facing similar challenges. The focus remains on creating safe, accessible and welcoming environments that enhance quality of life while reducing the strain on energy resources during peak summer months.