99% Invisible Shade
Jan 15, 2020
Sam Bloch, a journalist focused on urban heat issues, highlights the critical lack of shade in Los Angeles and its dire health implications, especially for vulnerable communities. Alongside landscape architect Kurt Kohlstedt, they discuss how tree cover correlates with wealth disparities and the historical planning decisions that perpetuated these inequalities. The conversation expands to the innovative integration of greenery into urban architecture, laughing at the challenges of balancing aesthetic appeal with genuine sustainability. This insightful dialogue tackles the urgent need for equitable access to shade.
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Seeking Shade in LA
- In Los Angeles, Sam Bloch observed limited shade, impacting pedestrian behavior.
- People huddled behind telephone poles or other individuals to escape direct sunlight while waiting for buses.
Shade's Importance
- Shade is crucial for human comfort, especially in hot, dry climates like Los Angeles.
- Lack of shade can lead to dizziness, disorientation, and even serious health risks like heat stroke or organ failure.
Unequal Tree Canopy
- Los Angeles suffers from unequal tree canopy distribution, closely following wealth lines.
- Wealthier areas enjoy more greenery, while poorer areas bake in the sun.