Proposed Urban Heat Standard

Participation is sought for the proposed standard, which will support nature-based solutions to mitigate urban heat exposure.

Mar 27, 2026

ASTM International’s environmental assessment, risk management and corrective action committee (E50) invites interested parties to join in developing a proposed standard on nature-based solutions for urban heat. The proposed standard (WK95551) is being developed by the climate and community subcommittee (E50.07).

This proposed guide will establish a comprehensive framework for the planning, selection, and implementation of nature-based solutions (NBS) aimed at mitigating urban heat exposure. It outlines voluntary, evidence-based strategies that integrate vegetation, water, and landscape features into the built environment to lower ambient temperatures and promote thermal comfort. This guide will provide a consistent framework to support planning and investment in NBS, especially in urban areas that face climate vulnerabilities.

According to Paul Sonnenfeld, E50.07 vice chair, “Urban heat is an escalating threat to public health, infrastructure, and city livability. With heat now the leading weather-related cause of death in North America, there is an urgent need for structured guidance on how nature-based approaches can reduce exposure to extreme temperatures.”

The subcommittee seeks additional stakeholders to participate, such as architects, urban planners, landscape planners, academicians, and others.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Join ASTM.

U.N. Sustainable Development Goals Supported: