Singapore Became Obsessed by Shade
10 hours ago
- #urban-planning
- #Singapore
- #climate-adaptation
- Singapore has developed extensive shade infrastructure to combat heat and humidity, including covered sidewalks and communal 'void decks'.
- Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's first prime minister, prioritized shade and greenery to enhance economic productivity and public comfort.
- Singapore's urban planning mandates shade in public spaces, with developers required to contribute to the shade network.
- The city-state balances green (trees) and grey (man-made) shade to optimize cooling without increasing humidity.
- Singapore's political consensus and long-term planning have enabled it to become both denser and greener, with extensive urban forests.
- Shade infrastructure in Singapore, including trees and buildings, helps mitigate heat but won't fully counteract climate change effects.
- Singapore's success highlights the potential for intentional government planning of shade in other tropical cities.