In response to the escalating climate crisis, the link between climate change and health in cities is being highlighted. Specifically, this is linked to decarbonization and improving rainwater management through rooftop greening and the expansion of parks. These initiatives will help mitigate the heat island effect and reduce the risk of heat stroke.

On 17 August, a dynamic panel discussion, ‘Bringing Climate and Health Together in Japanese and American Cities’ was held, and featured speakers from three American and Japanese cities, including ICLEI member, Kawasaki City, exchanging their insights and ideas on how cities can achieve net-zero emissions while enhancing well-being and quality of life.

This event is part of the project ‘Leveraging co-benefits for healthy net-zero transitions in Japan and other G7 cities’, funded by the Wellcome Trust, led by the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) and implemented by the Woodrow Wilson Centre and eight other organizations.

The recording can be viewed on the Woodrow Wilson Centre website.