More Trees To Combat Heat Islands: The 3-30-300 Rule For More Liveable Cities

(MENAFN- Swissinfo) Heat islands are causing Swiss and European cities to overheat. Yet only 13.5% of the urban population lives in neighbourhoods that comply with the '3-30-300' rule, a model that relies on trees and green spaces to combat the heat. Select your language

Generated with artificial intelligence. Listening: More trees to combat heat islands: the 3-30-300 rule for more liveable cities This content was published on September 11, 2026 - 09:00 5 minutes Christian Bernasconi, RSI

Summer in the city is increasingly synonymous with stifling heatwaves and tropical nights. This discomfort is not merely a subjective perception but the direct result of urban heat islands.

This microclimatic phenomenon, typical of heavily built-up areas, transforms squares and streets into veritable heat reservoirs. Asphalt and concrete absorb solar radiation during the day and then slowly release it as heat during the night. As a result temperatures do not drop and residents find no relief at night.

In Ticino, some of the most telling examples include iconic locations such as Piazza del Sole in Bellinzona, the Rotonda in Piazza Castello in Locarno, and Piazza Bernardino Luini, opposite the LAC museum in Lugano. During the hottest months, these surfaces become extremely hot and almost impassable.

More More Climate adaptation Why Switzerland is still not ready to face heatwaves

This content was published on Sep 9, 2026 Several Swiss cities have strengthened their measures against heatwaves. However, a nationwide strategy is still lacking.

Read more: Why Switzerland is still not ready to face heat

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