Barcelona's climate refuge network has grown significantly this summer, reaching 500 spaces across the city. This figure represents an increase of a hundred compared to the previous year, ensuring that 99% of Barcelona residents have a refuge within a 10-minute walk from their homes. Coverage reaches 92.3% of the population even on an August Sunday.
The expansion has focused particularly on neighborhoods with less coverage and greater vulnerability to heat. For the second consecutive year, micro-refuges have been promoted, adding around sixty more. These spaces, located in pharmacies, shops, and community centers, offer a place for brief rest, with some providing seating, water, and free restrooms.
As a new feature, libraries open during July and August will host 54 programmed activities for children and families, becoming not only spaces for comfort but also for entertainment. Additionally, film screenings will be held in various cultural venues. Five libraries are joining the August offerings, and two new community centers are being added to the refuge network as part of the Neighborhood Plan.
Over 75% of the climate refuges are indoors, while the rest are outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and schoolyards. This year, parks serving as climate refuges will be signposted to indicate the coolest areas, helping citizens identify them. These outdoor spaces have a positive impact on people's physical and emotional well-being.
The climate refuge project, initiated in 2020 with 70 spaces, has shown consistent growth, reaching 500 spaces by 2026.
