Oulu is part of a 50-city network fighting against extreme heat – practical solutions on the streets

Extreme heat is a growing risk for cities all over the world. Many cities are already approaching conditions equivalent to 50 °C heat. The heat has negative effects on human health, infrastructure, and the ease of everyday life.  

The World Environment Day was celebrated on Friday June 5, 2026. The “50@50” campaign, launched in the UN’s Environment Programme, began on that day. It brings together over 50 cities all over the world to share solutions to prepare for extreme heat.

Oulu is the only participanting city in the Nordics 

The cooperation is directed to both cities that already face extreme heat or equivalent conditions wanting to present and reinforce their measures, as well as cities that are preparing for the rise in temperature. The international network includes cities from all over the world, such as Paris, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Warsaw.  

“Oulu was invited into the network because there is heat in the north as well. We are the only Nordic city in this international group”, City Architect Sanna Pääkkönen explains. 

The goal of the network is to promote practical solutions, increase awareness, and encourage local action. Oulu’s urban environment is actively developed to ensure that it endures extreme weather and offers a comfortable environment for citizens and visitors. 

“In Oulu, rises in temperature are usually observed as prolonged hot weather and excessive rise in indoor temperatures. These effects are especially difficult for children, the elderly, and the ill. Oulu’s world-wide solutions include plans for utilizing the shade of trees and citizens spending time by water. We also share our goals to prevent the overheating of buildings and improve cooling.” 

For example, the Isokatu renovation in the city centre will increase greenery and rest areas are built for pedestrians to improve the urban environment’s usability even on warmer days. The finished renovation in Nallikari made the beach more pleasant for users: traffic arrangements were improved, rest areas were built, and shade was increased both in the structures and by planting trees.