Can trees save Kathmandu from heat?

As Kathmandu evolves into a hectic capital, a vital question arises: Can trees protect our city from escalating heat? A hidden catastrophe cast a shadow over the valley: The urban heat island effect (UHI). This condition where the urban center suffers markedly elevated heat in comparison to the rural areas, which brings out the severe medical threat with the shocking findings suggest that Kathmandu can be up to 10°F (5.5°C) warmer than the surrounding environment and intensifies the impact of climate change. What if the solution to this urgency is as straightforward as planting trees?

Urban Heat Effect: A Looming Crisis

Kathmandu Valley is experiencing unparalleled population growth with a yearly rise of about 7%of rapid urbanization and significant loss of green spaces. The hasty advancement has changed the green valley into concrete jungles, causing temperature to surge and air quality to descend.

The UHI effect not only elevates energy consumption. Recent studies have shown that urban areas consume about 30% more energy due to this phenomenon. Additionally, the UHI effect aids air pollution by raising the growing level of ozone formation, which can cause serious problems related to respiration, making it a mandatory issue for the valley to seek a resolution.

Wellness threats linked with rising temperatures are especially concerning.

Vulnerable groups such as senior citizens and children and those who are with chronic health conditions are more prone to heat-related concerns. A Human Health Research Council study found that intense heat events in urban areas have led to a 20% increase in patient intake personnel.

Trees: Nature's Cool Companions

Could the answer be as simple as planting trees? The natural way to present urban forestry is to address the urban heat effect through multiple frameworks.

Shade Generation

The tree's canopy is a barrier for restricting the sunlight from striking hard to the surface. Research indicates that favorably located trees can reduce the temperature to 10°F (5.5°C).

Evaporation

The moisture is released into the air by the trees. They are reducing the heat of the environment by evaporation. This process is significantly effective amid summer months when temperatures soar.

Energy Saving

Tactically planted trees can help decrease building cooling costs by providing shade to air conditioning units and windows. Every penny spent on trees is beneficial in energy saving.

Improved Air Quality

Urban forests are vital in filtering pollutants from the air and facilitating better conditions for public health. Fully grown trees can soak up to 150 kg of carbon dioxide annually, making them an important element in combating climate change.

Current Projects in Kathmandu

Recent initiatives feature the cruciality of urban forestry in Kathmandu's battle against increasing temperatures. Recently, Mayor Mr Balen Shah has officially highlighted the vital role trees and green spaces play in boosting urban life quality. The Kathmandu metropolitan city has proactively conducted roadside plantation initiatives to amplify urban greenery throughout the valley.

In addition, ​​the Kathmandu Ecological Urban Renewal Project, Inaugurated in March 2024, focuses on reviving the green spaces linked with active water bodies and parks while elevating the infrastructure in underserved urban areas. This project aims to unite the community with the natural environment, making them more adaptable to the impact of climate change.

Emerging Challenges Ahead

Regardless of the transparent benefits of urban forestry, the Kathmandu Valley needs to addressessing effective programs. Green spaces are being forfeited due to unmanaged urbanization and infrastructures. Along with limited public engagement, it concluded that many residents felt excluded from the policy formulation process related to green initiatives. A recent survey demonstrated that 78% of people are displeased with the current quality of tees.

Budget limitations and a lack of awareness about the benefits of urban forestry hinder the process. Improper management protocols can lead to tree demise, interfering with attempts to increase the green spaces. One of the key challenges is that new infrastructures often disrupt green spaces. Kathmandu Ring Road Improvement Project announced a plan to cut down over 2000 trees along the roadways to expand the lane from three to eight lanes. This initiative has triggered public rage and protests against the community's growing concerns over the loss of green spaces and trees.

A Call to Action

As we deal with the challenges of climate change and gradual urbanization in Kathmandu, it's time to identify the revolutionary power of trees in our valley by capitalizing on the urban forestry process. We can confront the UHI effect while enriching the well-being of the community and upgrading the air quality.

So the next time you notice a tree on the street or hear about the new planting initiatives, remember that it's not just a plant; it's an essential part of the city's infrastructure. One that can save lives and help cool progressively sweltering cityscapes. Let's advocate and emphasize the importance of green spaces and affirm that every community has access to the cooling shade of trees.

In a nutshell,  trees may offer an alternative to forming a greener future for Kathmandu in light of temperature and environmental challenges. Will we act before it's too late? This decision is in our hands. Let's choose wisely!