Tips what to do against Heat Islands

For millions of Americans living in and around cities, heat islands are of growing concern. This phenomenon describes urban and suburban temperatures that are 2 to 10°F (1 to 6°C) hotter than nearby rural areas. Elevated temperatures can impact communities by increasing peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, air pollution levels, and heat-related illness and mortality.

Fortunately, there are common-sense measures that communities can take to reduce the negative effects of heat islands:

• Install cool or vegetated green roofs
• Plant trees and vegetation
• Switch to cool paving materials

See also Temperature Regulation.