Uploaded on 2016-03-16 by Ingrid_Vargas

Done **2. Which are the main UHI effects that you can identify in your area?** Torremolinos is a town with approximately 67.000 inhabitants that was part of Malaga city until 1988. Therefore, there are few data or research about environmental issues in the town. Torremolinos is a lineal city connected with Málaga and Benalmadena city. They create a big metropolitan area that contributes to increase de UHI effects in the area. Tourism is an important part of the economy but is the main reason for the unplanned growth of the town. ![][1] This picture allows us to see the high density of the town and the lack of green spaces on the seafront. As a part of a metropolitan area the mobility is essential and, unfortunately, a great part of its inhabitants works in another town so they have to use their cars. All these factors contribute to increase the temperature in the city. Although there is no data of UHI, the temperatures are higher each summer and they have reached 45ºC and 50ºC last summer in the town. Furthermore, Torremolinos is affected by a particular meteorological phenomenon called “Terral” which consist of a decrease of air humidity and this increases the heat sensation. Due to global warming, this phenomenon is more common than ever before. ![][2] This one shows and adjacent rural area of the Torremolino’s mountains “La cañada del lobo”. The vegetation and the absence of buildings and roads create a better atmosphere and improve the temperature, reducing UHI effects. Although there is vegetation, it is a rainfed land with a desert tendency. **3. Which are the measures you would propose?** a) It is particularly important to reduce CO2 emissions, therefore I would promote a use of public transport, reducing the train fees, creating more effective bus connection between towns and improving the connectivity with cycle lanes. b)I would improve the quantity and quality of vegetation on public spaces, in order to reduce the temperatures and the irradiation of pavements. c) It would be interesting to encourage people to customize their buildings with green roofs and stakeholders to invest in self-sufficient houses and buildings. d) It is essential to design an agenda, invest in environmental research and setting goals in order to achieve them. **5. Is UHI effect concerning policy making in your area?** No, I’m not aware of any UHI policy in the town. However, there is a renewal interest for environmental issues in the local administration and they have created a local council to focused on health, sustainability and environment. Although Malaga administration showed interest about UHI effects two years ago, unfortunately, there are no results about it. [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/1458126263618378.png [2]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14581264069440511.jpg