Heat

Most animals are what we would call “cold-blooded” (This is not a proper scientific term, it is more accurate to say they are exothermic and poikilothermic). Unlike humans, they can’t generate their own body temperature and depend on outside heat.

They are also less capable of dealing with higher temperatures, it can cause them to overheat. This means many of the hotter zones in our cities are barriers to their movement. 

Our obsession with concrete, steel and glass, the modern designs of our cities don’t take into account the thermal environment. Combined with the tropical heat, our architecture creates an environment that is hostile to life. 

Our cities are often too hot for invertebrates, except for hardy pest species. And when there are no other animals to control them, these pests can multiply out of control. But they often are not enough to sustain viable food chains. 

Imagine a city where controlling the temperature is a goal, and biodiversity is one of the indicators of whether you can achieve that goal. Living things such as trees, rain gardens, green spaces and green walls can greatly help to dissipate heat. 

Not only would it be healthier for all living things, but for humans as well.