How Can Academia Help the Urban Poor Facing Climate Change?

Associate Professor Sigit Dwiananto Arifwidodo, or Sigit to friends, is a distinguished academic at the Department of Landscape Architecture, Kasetsart University in Bangkok. His research primarily focuses on sustainable urban development and climate change, particularly within the context of Asian cities. Sigit’s journey into urban heat island (UHI) research began in 2014 when he started investigating the correlations in temperature changes and the intensity of heatwaves and severe floods in Bangkok. His early work explored the intersection of urban planning and environmental management, which naturally led him to investigate the social and physiological effects of UHI.

“I was drawn to the broader implications of urbanisation on environmental health,” Sigit recalls. “The more I delved into the data, the clearer it became that UHI was not just an environmental issue, but a significant public health concern.”

UHI effect disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations who reside in lower income areas with limited green spaces, poorer housing quality and limited access to cooling mechanisms. This exacerbates their exposure to heat stress. “The urban poor are the most affected by UHI because they lack the resources to mitigate its effects,” Sigit notes. “They live in areas with less vegetation.”

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The impact of UHI on vulnerable groups is multifaceted. Psychologically, heat waves can exacerbate mental health issues for them. “Heat stress and discomfort during activities cause anxiety, irritability and even depression,” Sigit explains. Denying the poor access to cooler environments, such as shopping malls, can further contribute to feelings of isolation and helplessness. Physically, vulnerable groups are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and dehydration. “In Bangkok, people working outdoors, like construction workers or street vendors, are particularly at risk,” Sigit notes. Young children and the elderly are also vulnerable as their bodies do not cope well with higher temperatures, making it harder to cope with heatwaves. In extreme cases, this can lead to increased mortality and morbidity.

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Ian Tan tells stories about the urban environment we live in. He uses his understanding of cultural heritage, placemaking and conservation to do so. Through interactions with other built environment professionals, he is also inspired by emerging technologies, innovative building solutions and new design strategies that can create a more liveable and inclusive environment for all. He has a PhD in Architecture and currently works at Arup, a global sustainable development consultancy.

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