Climate adaptive planning for preventing heat-related health impacts in New York City

Abstract

This paper explores the formal planning processes used by cities and local governments to adapt to and mitigate the hazards associated with current climate variability and expected climate change. Increased rates of mortality and morbidity due to summertime heat are a significant problem in New York City (NYC) and for many cities around the world, and are expected to increase with a warming climate. Populations may be at increased risk because of greater heat exposure—for example, due to the urban heat island (UHI)—or by virtue of demographic, social, or medical risk factors. Those at greater risk for heat-related health impacts in American cities include the elderly, low-income and communities of color, those with limited mobility and little social contact, those with pre-existing health conditions, and those lacking access to public facilities and public transportation. A case study describes the initial work of the NYC Climate Adaptation Task Force and the formal planning undertaken by the city to prevent heat-related health effects from excessive summertime heat. A community-based adaptation planning process may help address the social justice dimension of the impacts of extreme events and climate change in NYC while increasing the effectiveness of adaptive programs and policies. This paper represents primary research into the climate adaptation strategies of municipalities and could be useful for a range of urban actors.