Sam Block

In this engaging conversation, journalist Sam Block, author of *Shade: The Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource*, delves into the importance of shade for public health and climate adaptation. He discusses how access to shade varies across neighborhoods and its implications for urban planning. From innovative solutions in Barcelona to grassroots efforts in Los Angeles, Sam highlights the critical intersection of shade, health, and climate resilience. He also critiques bureaucratic hurdles that stymie necessary urban improvements, making a compelling case for better planning.

Sam Block, a journalist and author of 'Shade, the Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource', joins V. Kelly Turner, an urban planning expert at UCLA, to discuss the escalating threat of extreme heat. They explore how shade can be a vital resource in combating rising temperatures, especially for vulnerable urban populations. The conversation highlights the importance of urban planning that integrates green spaces, addressing inequalities in access to shade, and the need for tailored heat action plans to protect marginalized communities.