Urban Tree Loss and Its Impact on Heat-Related Behavioral Adaptations in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City Communities

Urban streets are becoming increasingly sweltering as the valuable trees that once offered respite from the heat are lost to rapid urbanization. This study investigates how the removal of trees in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, has affected residents’ adaptive responses to extreme heat. Through a descriptive-correlational approach, the research explores the behavioral shifts in the community, focusing on strategies such as outdoor activity modifications, cooling mechanisms, and health-related coping actions. Results reveal that the loss of urban trees—due to factors like urban sprawl, commercial deforestation, and insufficient reforestation—has significantly impacted residents’ behavior, increasing their dependence on personal adaptations like air conditioning, hydration, and modifying outdoor schedules. Moreover, the study highlights the disparities in access to cooling technologies, with lower-income groups facing greater challenges. The findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated urban planning, which includes sustainable reforestation efforts, enhanced cooling infrastructure, and educational initiatives. By restoring green spaces and fostering community resilience, the city can mitigate the detrimental effects of tree loss and provide a more comfortable, climate-resilient environment for all.