Belgium (Brussels): Heat islands

Heat islands are pockets of heat resulting from buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorbing and re-emitting heat. The heat island phenomenon is very much a threat in Brussels, particularly in the denser, more heavily built-up areas of the city, such as the city centre.

The significant presence of tall buildings and dark surfaces like bitumen increase the surface area that collects solar radiation, creating a “gorge” effect that traps heat and prevents air from circulating.

As a result, heat islands appear in the city reducing the city’s liveability for inhabitants especially in the city centre where much social housing can be found.

Although all major renovations now must comply with energy efficiency objectives, it takes time to find solutions to the current effects of these urban heat islands.

The most vulnerable people are most at risk from urban heat islands. They have the least capacity to adapt their homes to rising temperatures.

These communities are also the least likely to be heard and recognised and/or to benefit from adaptation actions.
The Brussels-based Learning Venture brings together local communities (social housing society, public real estate companies, universities, industry, lifelong learning organisations, and citizens) to act towards mitigating the urban heat island effect as part of a broader climate justice movement in the city.

It takes a social justice approach, by working with some of the city’s most vulnerable communities, who are most impacted by the climate crisis, to find adaptation strategies that are more just and equitable.

Heat island mitigation projects are designed with and for the community, putting learning at their centre. Using intergenerational learning approaches, traditional and modern techniques, and citizen science communities are developing solutions by and for residents to improve their lives in their neighbourhoods.