In response to rising temperatures attributed to climate change, Shinagawa Ward in Tokyo is set to introduce a groundbreaking urban strategy aimed at boosting shaded areas within the city, termed the 'Shade Policy.' This initiative is part of a broader trend among Japanese municipalities seeking to improve urban resilience against extreme heat. The policy will be noted in the upcoming fiscal year budget, with the goal of being fully developed by the 2026 fiscal year. The strategy is unique to the area -- the first of its kind in the Tokyo Metropolitan area -- and strives to address the rising health risks posed by extreme heat, such as heatstroke incidents.

Shinagawa Ward officials have identified the urgency to respond to extreme summer temperatures, which have seen record highs in recent years. Last year, Tokyo saw a troubling peak temperature of over 35 degrees Celsius, contributing to an increase in heat-related fatalities. Recognizing that existing long-term strategies focused on energy conservation and greenhouse gas reduction are insufficient for immediate public safety, the ward aims to adopt short-term, actionable measures centered around enhancing urban shade.

Planned measures include increasing the number of trees in public spaces, installing awnings over sidewalks, and enhancing incentives for private sector participation in these efforts through adjustments in building regulations and new subsidy programs. The ward is also looking to learn from international examples, with plans to allocate ¥7.5 million in the new budget for research into similar strategies successfully implemented in cities like Seville, Spain.