From mobile jungles to shadow art: how Dutch people try to beat the heat
Summary
The Netherlands is experiencing a heatwave, and experts are advising people in Amsterdam to hang curtains outside their windows to block sunlight and keep homes cooler. The government has started a heatwave plan to protect vulnerable people, and researchers are testing creative ways like fake trees and shadow art to cool streets and pavements.Key Facts
- Dutch houses have large windows designed to let in winter sun, which causes heat problems in summer.
- Each year, around 110 people in Amsterdam die due to heat, with numbers expected to rise without action.
- Public health expert Eline Coolen recommends hanging curtains or sheets outside windows to block sunlight.
- Mechanical engineering professor Bert Blocken says keeping buildings cool without air conditioning is best by blocking sun rays.
- The Dutch national heatwave plan suggests actions in three areas: changing behavior, improving housing, and designing cities better.
- Research shows awareness campaigns about heatwaves help reduce deaths.
- Green spaces, green roofs, and trees are important to reduce urban heat.
- Innovative ideas like mobile “jungle blocks” and shadow art are being tested to provide shade and cool outdoor areas.
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