What is the
HEAT ISLAND EFFECT?
The urban heat island is a phenomenon
where the temperature in urban areas
is higher compared to
the surrounding rural areas.
where the temperature in urban areas
is higher compared to
the surrounding rural areas.
What causes it?
Built Environment
In a city, the sun's heat is radiated back into the environment not only from the ground but also from walls, roofs, and cars, multiplying the amount of heat.
These surfaces (concrete and asphalt) are also good heat retainers, meaning they heat up much more and cool down more slowly, making nights in the city significantly hotter.
These surfaces (concrete and asphalt) are also good heat retainers, meaning they heat up much more and cool down more slowly, making nights in the city significantly hotter.
Lack of Water
A city is as dry as a desert. The rainfall almost immediately disappears into the drains, so it is not stored in the soil or vegetation.
If there is no water and little vegetation, there is no evaporation, which could significantly cool the air.
If there is no water and little vegetation, there is no evaporation, which could significantly cool the air.
Little Shade and Wind
In a city, there are many uncovered areas with no protection from direct sunlight.
The arrangement of buildings and streets also hinders the city's ventilation and air exchange.
The arrangement of buildings and streets also hinders the city's ventilation and air exchange.
Why is this a problem?
Because we're roasting.
In the city, our bodies may perceive 35°C summer heat as 50-60°C.
Heat stress overloads and dehydrates our bodies, which can be life-threatening.
If it is warm at night, we sleep poorly and insufficiently, preventing our bodies from recovering from heat stress. This significantly weakens our resilience.
Heat-induced weakness and dehydration are especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
Extreme heat stress may be one of the most dangerous aspects of climate change, leading to tens of thousands of deaths annually in the EU, causing severe water and energy shortages, and resulting in substantial economic damage.
What can be done?
Fortunately, we have excellent solutions for cooling the city that help adapt to climate change.
More water
Water is life! Whether channeled into the ground instead of drains, used to nourish plants, or in a small garden pond, evaporating water is the most effective solution not only for cooling but also for addressing almost every problem caused by climate change.
More Shade
Shade-providing objects block part of the direct sunlight, reducing its intensity. Trees are excellent not only for evaporation and air purification but also for shading. However, many other tools can be used for this purpose as well.
More Wind
While we can't significantly influence large-scale air movement, we can do much around our own homes and properties to ensure air circulation and ventilation in the area.
Cooler Surfaces
It's no coincidence that houses in Mediterranean vacation spots are painted white: the lighter the surface color, the more sunlight it reflects. Using light-colored paving or painting surfaces white can reduce not only heat but also our energy costs during summer.
