A global study by Monash University, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, shows that increasing urban vegetation by 30% could prevent up to 1.16 million heat-related deaths worldwide. The 20-year analysis covered over 11,000 urban areas between 2000 and 2019 and emphasized the importance of greenery in reducing climate-driven health risks.

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• Study finds 30% more green cover could save 1.16 million lives
• Based on data from 11,000+ urban areas, 2000–2019
• Vegetation lowers warm-season temperatures by up to 0.19°C
• Cooling effect directly linked to fewer heat-related deaths
• South Asia, Eastern Europe, East Asia to benefit most
• Heat-related deaths now ~500,000 annually (0.91% of all deaths)
• Future mortality could hit 16.7% in SE Asia under worst warming
• Green cover reduces heat via shade, evapotranspiration, reflection
• Also improves air quality, mental health, and social well-being
• Urgent call for cities to prioritize green infrastructure in planning