Uploaded on 2015-11-02 by betty_crab

Bratislava, especially the center does not provide enough greenery to shade the streets and decrease the temperature. However being a small city, without larger concrete blocks this effect is visible only in certain areas. The city is located on the river Danube, that cools the city down and also has big city forest area that provides more pleasant environment in short distance. The area of our country house (village Laksarska Nova Ves) has in comparison greater difference between night and day temperature in summer. The woods, soil and natural structures do not hold up that much energy as concrete pavings and bricks in the city. Interesting is also data from within the city of Bratislava. From many examples I picked temperatures measured at one day in three different spots. In the wetlands that are located quite close to the city center the temperature was 29,87, this area has 100% vegetation and natural elements and also 100% area is covered in trees. Historical center reached a temperature of 38,57°with 20% of natural elements and only 10% trees on the area. Highest temperature was measured near shopping mall (located in the area that was historically covered by the same kind of wetlands as first example) was 42,06°. This area has 20% natural elements and 10% area is shaded by trees. The measures to prevent heating up the central area would be in the first place bring more green spaces to the center and urbanised areas. Revitalising and taking better care of older trees would prevent their degradation and then the need to cut them down. Danube brings great character to the city, it is however not so accessible for pedestrians at the whole length that could be available. The Main Square was changes its form over years and its most recent renovation turned it into its form without any greenery. Even though this representation is also historically correct it does not mean it is right for the current situation. The square was covered in trees for very long time before, making it more livable place. In 2014 the set of rules was brought up for the city of Bratislava with general summarisation of how to prevent UHI and its negative effects on human health. I came across the document now, and in my opinion the things could have moved forward more from its release. The short term goals the document states should be in its finishing phase right now, but I still think we have long way to go as a city. We are getting there but slowly and the initiatives taking place do not seem to be connected under one stronger and focused aim. ![Laksarska Nova Ves][1] ![Bratislava wetlands, this is me collecting ramson (being currently in Stockholm I have to use old pic I come across in my computer :)][2] ![Bratislava historical center][3] The information about temperatures : http://www.bratislava.sk/MsZ/Archiv/MsZ_14_07_03/064_Adaptacne%20strategie.pdf [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14465051999101609.jpg [2]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14465052615855887.jpg [3]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14465053952077297.jpg