Botanical gardens ‘most effective’ green space at cooling streets in heatwaves

Researchers hope the findings will inform policymakers planning cities for a warming world

Few things are as soothing on a hot summer's day as a walk through a beautiful botanical garden, but they are not just oases of calm. As climate breakdown fuels soaring temperatures, they could prove crucial in moderating the heat in the streets around them.

A comprehensive review of research into the heat-mitigating effects of green spaces during heatwaves has found that botanical gardens are the most effective. It is a finding the team at the Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCCAR) hope will inform policymakers planning cities for a warming world.