Reducing the heat island effect through data-driven, sustainable strategies.
The Challenge
Global warming makes our summers hotter.
Reduced overnight cooling of the city air is but one of the related symptoms. But it is one that deserves our attention. Because of lesser green and unpaved surfaces (when compared to rural areas), cities are particularly prone to this so called ‘heat island effect’.
The heat island effect isn’t without threat, especially for more ‘sensitive’ population groups like pregnant women, babies and the elderly. It is key to alert them timely about the rising temperatures so they can take precautions and help them efficiently cool their environments during heat waves.
We challenge you to find solutions that are able to measure the heat island effect locally and in real-time and compile a powerful database for targeted heat reduction strategies. This challenge also aligns with Leuven 2030’s roadmap, supporting the development of a climate neutral and resilient city.
City of Leuven Award
Steeped in centuries of culture and history, Leuven quickly captures your heart. It is an internationally oriented city accustomed to accommodating individuals and families from every background. Combined with an excellent education system and high standard of medical care, Leuven has all the ingredients to be a great place to live.
The team that provides the most promising solution to their challenge will be offered the opportunity to further develop their project with the support of the City of Leuven, more specifically within the implementation of the Open Space Plan or the Heat Plan.
Leuven City will also attend the Life After Hack Belgium Pitch event, where opportunities for collaboration and exchange can be crystallised.
Create Your Solution To The Challenges
WORKSHOP
To solve the above challenges, we recommend you take part in the “Cities of Belgium Challenge You” workshop in the ‘Hackable Cities ’ theme on Day 1, where a mix of ideas will be brainstormed and teams will be formed.
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EXPERTS
Make sure to also have a talk with Leuvens City Experts Tim Guily (policy advisor smart city) and Stijn Van Herck (Leuven’s heat plan expert). Don’t forget to pull the sleeves of Martine Delannoy. She is your Cities Curator at Hack Belgium and your lead expert, connector and coach throughout the 3 day event.
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About the Cities Societal Theme
By 2050, 2 in 3 people worldwide will likely live in cities. Cities are our future, one we must create together. To embrace the creative potential of cities and achieve the sustainable development goals, we have to question our ways of doing things. Let’s start hacking the cities of the future!
Visit the Cities Societal Theme page
Visit the My Journey page to learn more on how you should organise your 3 Days. Lots of other Ideation, business, design and technology workshops to pick. Don’t forget to also visit the Experience Zone.
