Sunshine, long hot summers and limited shade are synonymous with the Australian landscape. Cancer Council NSW’s 2022 Community Prevention Survey found that most NSW adults reported insufficient shade availability in priority public spaces, including: public pools (21%), public parks (19%), playgrounds (16%), sports grounds (13%) and beaches (9%). The Cancer Council developed guidelines for shade (CCGS), however their relevance and uptake by the built environment community has been unclear.
To address this challenge, Cancer Council NSW, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), and Cancer Institute NSW worked together to develop ‘ShadeSmart’, a partnership to promote the design and development of quality shade and UV protection through built environment continuing professional development (CPD) training, the establishment of a ShadeSmart award, undertaking strategic advocacy and research advocacy.
CPD training consisted of 5x1 hour education modules, where 17 multi-disciplinary experts outlined the health challenge, the science of shade and UV, and planning and design considerations from a policy, practical and technical perspective. The live webinars achieved approximately150 participants and 670 ‘views’ online. A baseline survey of AILA members identified that 21% of respondents were aware of the CCGS, while only 33% reported using any shade guidance to inform their work planning.
Follow-up results comparing member awareness, understanding and use of guidance following CPD training will be shared. The impact of engagement and advocacy strategies will be discussed, noting the benefits of aligning shade design for UV protection and heat mitigation, and working with industry leaders to identify and deliver improved 'fit-for-purpose' solutions.