Sam Bloch

In this engaging conversation, journalist Sam Bloch, who is currently writing a book about the politics of shade, dives into the recent controversy surrounding La Sombrita, a new bus shelter in Los Angeles. He discusses the inequalities in shade distribution and its crucial implications for public health in urban areas. Bloch highlights how historical urban design influences access to shade, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. The discussion touches on grassroots efforts and the challenges cities face in implementing effective shade solutions for all.

Sam Bloch, an environmental journalist and author of 'Shade: The Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource,' discusses the alarming lack of shade in urban areas like Los Angeles, where just 20% of space is shaded at noon. He argues that shade should be viewed as a basic human right, comparable to clean air. The conversation dives into the historical significance of shaded spaces, public health impacts of extreme heat, and innovative urban design solutions to create cooler environments. Bloch's insights urge communities to prioritize shade to combat climate challenges.

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.