UNEP

The head of the UN Environment Programme says financing is the main obstacle to rolling out solutions that help communities cope with extreme heat. The warning comes as heatwaves intensify worldwide, with measures such as cooling systems, urban shading and early-warning plans available but underfunded. The comments underline growing pressure on governments and donors to direct more money toward climate adaptation.

The head of the UN Environment Programme says a lack of financing is the main obstacle to rolling out measures that help communities cope with extreme heat. As heatwaves intensify worldwide, solutions such as cooling centres, urban shade and early-warning systems exist but remain underfunded, and UNEP is urging greater investment to protect vulnerable populations.