URBAN HEAT ISLAND MITIGATION STRATEGIES AND TECHNOLOGIES

Urban heat island effects are a significant issue in urban landscapes due to dark pavement and minimal greenery. Green buildings can mitigate this by employing strategies that promote cooler environments. Reflective roofing materials, strategically placed windows and overhangs, and landscaping with trees and shrubs can reduce cooling energy use by 30% or more. Green roof technologies, such as vegetation and evaporative cooling, act as natural cooling systems, lowering peak roof temperatures compared to traditional roofs. Additionally, strategically placed roof skylights can be integrated with light shelves to maximize natural daylight penetration deep into the building, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and contributing to energy savings. These strategies contribute to a cooler urban environment, reducing peak summertime temperatures, decreasing energy demand for cooling systems, and improving thermal comfort for occupants and pedestrians.