Urban Heat Island: Causes, Effects and Solutions

Causes

• Construction Activities: The expansion of cities requires substantial amounts of carbon-absorbing materials like asphalt and concrete, which significantly trap heat, leading to higher average surface temperatures in urban areas.
• Impact of Dark Surfaces: Numerous urban buildings feature dark surfaces, diminishing their albedo and amplifying heat absorption.
• Air Conditioning: Buildings with darker surfaces tend to heat up faster, necessitating more air conditioning usage. This increased demand for cooling elevates energy consumption from power plants, intensifying pollution. Additionally, air conditioners contribute to local heating as they exchange heat with the surrounding atmosphere, creating a chain effect that contributes to urban heat island ....