Liveable Cities Interdisciplinary Conference Barcelona 2025

Rising temperatures in Athens have made streets increasingly hostile, particularly in areas with high-density development and limited shade. This paper investigates how street design can mitigate urban heat through cooling corridors, reflective materials and water-sensitive urban design. Using temperature modelling and spatial data, we propose strategic interventions to improve thermal comfort and protect public health, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and older people.

Southern European cities are increasingly affected by rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. These impacts are strongly linked to urban imperviousness, surface materials and limited canopy coverage. In dense cities like Barcelona, where sealed surfaces dominate and green infrastructure is sparse, addressing urban heat requires rethinking the role of public space. Streets, as one of the most extensive and valuable public assets, present a critical opportunity for actionable climate adaptation strategies.

Drawing on comparisons throughout the Mediterranean, where similar conditions produce intense urban heat, the study highlights how streets can be transformed into cooling corridors that support public health, especially for vulnerable demographic groups.

The findings argue for a shift in urban design priorities. By viewing streets as multi-functional spaces rather than transit-only corridors, Barcelona can lead in building urban environments that are more adaptable to extreme heat. Strategic, street-level interventions can significantly enhance climate resilience and improve overall urban liveability across the Mediterranean climate.