From 24–26 March 2026, ADB’s CCGE, in collaboration with SD2-WUD and in partnership with the City of Melbourne, organized a study visit, "Turning Down the Heat: How Melbourne Plans for Rising Temperatures.” The event opened with remarks from Jyotsana Varma, PLCO Regional Director; Norio Saito, SD2-WUD Senior Director; Nicholas Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne; and Zonibel Woods, Senior Social Development Specialist CCGE. It brought together officials from four DMCs to explore the city’s integrated approach to extreme heat, learn about gender-responsive strategies to protect women and vulnerable groups, and apply practical insights to develop locally adaptable heat action plans.
Participants visited sites addressing urban heat challenges, such as green spaces, water-sensitive urban design systems, a community cooling center, and a rooftop urban farm.
Ahead of the workshop, Senior Director Norio Saito also held a courtesy call with the Lord Mayor, who expressed support for ADB’s City-to-City Partnership Program.
Access event materials
Download event presentations and materials and browse through photos that capture highlights of the study visit.
DAY 1
On Day 1, we took a deep dive into how sustainable urban futures can be achieved in Asia and the Pacific. Using Melbourne as a case study, we examined the data-driven tools and governance models the city employs to address rising temperatures. Two panel discussions complemented this, focusing on translating heat action policy into practice and showcasing how countries are tackling extreme heat. The day concluded with a walking tour, allowing us to observe practical examples of sustainable heat solutions across Melbourne.
DAY 2
We focused on community-centered approaches to heat resilience on Day 2, beginning with a site visit to a local community center to see how shared spaces support women and other vulnerable groups during hot days. We then explored how heat intersects with social and economic inequalities, as well as the links between heat and health. This was followed by a museum tour and ended with an interactive simulation game.
DAY 3
On Day 3, we shifted our focus to design‑driven solutions for urban heat resilience, starting with a visit to Melbourne SkyFarm to examine the role of green infrastructure in managing urban heat. We then explored nature‑based and water‑sensitive solutions during a walking tour along the Yarra River. In the afternoon, a panel discussion highlighted holistic and inclusive approaches to heat resilience, followed by a workshop where countries developed and presented their own heat action plans.
Additional resources
Foodcube Farming 101
This guide is a practical and forward-thinking resource that explores how modular Foodcube systems can transform heat-stressed, underutilized urban spaces into thriving, productive gardens. The publication features the Melbourne SkyFarm, which we had the opportunity to visit during the study tour.
Disclaimer: These presentations and materials are shared to support learning and encourage the exchange of ideas among ADB member countries. The views expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), its Board of Governors, or the governments they represent.
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