Policy Brief: Addressing rising temperatures through sustainable housing practices

Ghana is presently experiencing a warming trend, with citizens expressing concerns about rising nighttime temperatures. The impact of climate change is evident, and urgent measures are required to mitigate the effects. This policy brief advocates for sustainable housing practices as a crucial step toward adapting to and mitigating the changing climate.

Rising Temperatures and Nighttime Heats

The observed increase in temperatures, particularly the discomfort during nighttime, highlights the pressing need to address climate-related challenges. Extreme temperatures adversely affect the well-being of citizens, emphasizing the urgency to implement sustainable solutions.

Recommendations:

Sustainable Housing Systems

Advocate for and implement sustainable housing systems that incorporate climate-responsive designs. This includes improved insulation, natural ventilation, and materials that regulate indoor temperatures. Afforestation Measures Mandate every new house construction to include the planting of shade trees. This not only contributes to carbon sequestration but also provides natural shading, reducing indoor and outdoor temperatures. To this end, the government must take stringent measures to halt the menace of galamsey which threatens our existing forests.

Limiting Glazing in Building Structures:

Encourage architects and builders to avoid excessive glazing in building structures. While natural light is important, excessive glazing contributes to heat gain, and alternative design strategies should be explored.

Research Findings by CCCFS:

The CCCFS has recently conducted research highlighting the discriminative felling of the few remaining trees in urban areas, particularly in Greater Kumasi. This research which will be published later this year underscores the importance of preserving existing green spaces for their cooling effects and overall environmental benefits.

Key Findings:

Urban Tree Depletion:

The research identifies a concerning trend of indiscriminate tree felling in urban areas, especially in Greater Kumasi, leading to a loss of crucial green cover.

Impact on Microclimate:

The removal of trees contributes to the urban heat island effect, exacerbating rising temperatures in affected areas. This poses a direct threat to the well-being of residents.

Policy Implications:

Strict Enforcement of Tree Preservation Laws:

Advocate for and enforce legislation that protects urban trees, imposing strict penalties for unauthorized tree felling.

Promotion of Green Spaces:

Encourage the creation and maintenance of green spaces within urban planning to counteract the heat island effect.

Community Engagement:

Initiate community awareness programs to educate citizens on the importance of tree preservation and sustainable practices.

Conclusion:

Adopting sustainable housing practices and preserving urban green spaces are integral steps in addressing the current warming trend in Ghana. This policy brief urges the CCCFS to actively engage with policymakers, communities, and the construction industry to implement these recommendations for a climate-resilient future.

Sulemana Issifu
Director of Research
Contact: +4915217593128

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