Chișinău’s Urban Acupuncture Pilot: Enhancing Climate Resilience in Preschool Infrastructure

Within the Be Ready project, Chișinău has implemented an urban acupuncture pilot to reduce Urban Heat Island effects through targeted green, blue, and white measures. The action - “Closed Pavilion for Children and Landscaping Adjacent to Kindergarten No. 100” - transformed a dense, low-greenery site into a safe and climate-resilient outdoor space for preschool children. Co-designed with citizens and project partners, the pilot introduced a partially enclosed wooden pavilion with a reflective roof, improved landscaping, and 21 water sprays to support heat-resilient outdoor learning.

The intervention covers 44 m² and directly benefits around 120 children and up to 15 educators. Planning included UHI assessments, stakeholder workshops, and consultations with the General Directorate for Education, Youth and Sport and the Municipal Design Institute “Chişinăuproiect.” Public communication activities raised awareness of heat risks and showcased the pilot as a replicable model for sustainable preschool infrastructure.

Results indicate temperature reductions of up to 5°C and high levels of satisfaction among staff and parents, who praised the space’s safety and comfort. While administrative approvals posed challenges, the pilot demonstrated the value of early coordination and participatory design. It offers a scalable model for upgrading outdoor environments across Chișinău’s preschools and advancing city-wide UHI mitigation efforts.