Global Climate Crisis Seeking Environmental Justice and Climate Equality

Chapter Three

Urban Heat Islands and Associated Health Effects for Vulnerable Populations: Exploring Data, Technology, and Community-Engaged Research to Advance Health Equity

Na’Taki Osborne Jelks & JC Gonzalez

This chapter examines how urban heat islands, UHIs, (areas in cities that experience higher temperatures due to factors such as dense infrastructure and limited vegetation) grossly affect marginalized communities, such as low-income populations and people of color.

The authors emphasize that extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, and UHIs enhance this risk for vulnerable populations. They point out a correlation between the intensity of UHIs and historically redlined neighborhoods, indicating a trend of systemic inequities. 

This chapter addresses these problems by emphasizing the importance of community based research where the people most affected by these issues are utilized to form a solution, and the use of technology and equitable data practices. It presents a case study from Atlanta, Georgia, where researchers work with students and community scientists to map UHIs across neighborhoods. The purpose of this was to inform policy changes that promote environmental justice and health equity. 

Overall, the chapter advocates for integrating community perspectives and technological tools to mitigate the health impacts of UHIs and advance climate justice

About the Author

Nina is the Research Intern for The Bahá’í Chair for World Peace. She is a junior at The University of Maryland on the Pre-Law track pursuing a dual major in Psychology and Theatre.