Cities, where the urban heat island effect amplifies the impact of global climate change, are going to heat up in the coming decades. If greenhouse gas emissions continue on their current path, the average number of days that feel hotter than 100 degrees in the U.S. will more than double by 2050, according to a recent study.
Many cities around the world are taking action to keep cooler as temperatures rise. Some of the most common strategies are cool streets, cool roofs, and a broader urban tree canopy.
For example, Melbourne is mapping street trees and embarking on massive tree-planting efforts. The Australian city plans to double its canopy cover by 2040.
New York City has coated more than 10 million sf of rooftops with a white, reflective coating over the last decade. In Dallas, an initiative mapped areas that were hottest because of a lack of trees, and then planted trees in these areas along key pedestrian routes such as the paths that children take to school.
Tokyo has coated miles of streets with reflective pavements. Other cities have tested pavement that allows grass to grow through it.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2017
OSHA increases penalties on South Dakota contractor after fatal building collapse
Agency issues over $300,000 in fines for ‘willful’ safety violations.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2017
Potential shade on Boston Common from proposed high-rise raises public ire
The Mayor is among those who want to change 1990s anti-shadow law.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2017
Method of estimating amount of CO2 by building occupants may be inaccurate
New research suggests current estimates may be off by as much as 25%.
Codes and Standards | May 8, 2017
National Fenestration Rating Council’s new U-factor standard open for public comment
Member-approved ballot change to NFRC 100 comments to close on May 28.
Codes and Standards | May 4, 2017
Millennials’ views on sustainability could influence the workplace
Nine out of ten say it is important that they work for a company committed to sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 3, 2017
New York State extends design-build authority
The legislation includes eight additional projects.
Codes and Standards | May 2, 2017
U.S. announces preliminary tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber
The rates range from 3% to 24% per producer.
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2017
New York man alleged to have posed as licensed architect faces possible prison time
He is charged with defrauding construction companies, business owners, and local governments.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2017
Extensive list of plug load efficiency utility incentives available for free download
The Dept. of Energy resource is a state-by-state compilation with hundreds of listings.
Codes and Standards | Apr 26, 2017
Chicago commits to 100% renewable power for all city buildings
In doing so, it becomes largest U.S. city to make such a pledge.