New Technical Brief Explores the Value of Natural Infrastructure in Enhancing Community Health and Climate Resilience during Extreme Heat Events

A new technical brief from the Waterloo Climate Institute is helping Canadian municipalities tackle extreme heat by showing how natural infrastructure can protect public health, reduce climate risks, and boost economic productivity. Developed in partnership with local stakeholders, the research presented in the brief uses advanced modeling to predict how increased natural infrastructure—like trees and parks—lowers temperatures and improves health outcomes. By integrating local health, weather, and census data, the model projects health outcomes and estimates the economic value of natural infrastructure through fewer hospital visits, lower mortality rates, and improved worker performance. Already applied in 10 municipalities, the analysis provides city planners and decision-makers with strong, data-backed evidence to support investments in green infrastructure and nature-based solutions. As extreme heat events become more frequent, this research and model support the advancement of healthy urban communities while strengthening Canada's climate adaptation strategies.