Urban Climate Challenges in the Tropics: Rethinking Planning and Design Opportunities

Rapid global urbanization means that most people will experience the effects of climate change in cities. Much of this urban growth is in the warm, humid tropics of Asia and Latin America.This three-part book explores the unique urban growth trajectories of tropical cities and provides strategies and design approaches to enhance the quality of life of tropical urban dwellers in the face of climate change. Part One considers the philosophical basis of the climate challenge in this context and investigates tropical urbanism from the viewpoints of urban activity patterns and the notion of 'thermal pleasure'. Part Two explores specific, practical techniques and challenges in ventilation, shading, greenery and local climate assessment in the tropics. Part Three explores the barriers and future opportunities for climate-sensitive urban planning and presents specific examples of good practice, contextualized within the wider global debate on adapting to climate change. Urban Climate Challenges in the Tropics is an indispensable companion for planners, designers, architects and students of all levels.