Some 41 million urban residents experience higher temperatures, some up to 10 degrees or more, because of the built environment, according to a new analysis.
“Smart” surfaces that reduce the heat island effect can do more than bring temperatures down — they deliver billions in economic benefits, a report says.
The sweltering heat endured by major American cities is being fueled by vast swaths of concrete and a lack of greenery that can ratchet up temperatures by nearly 9F (5C) compared with surrounding rural areas, new research has found.
Leaders in Washington state and elsewhere have called for increasing tree canopy in underserved communities, which disproportionately experience urban heat island effects.
