Uploaded on 2017-02-28 by Julie Winrow

2. Which are the main UHI effects that you can identify in your area? I have chosen Rotterdam and a more rural area on the outskirts of Delft which is to the north of Rotterdam, as these are areas that I visit quite often. The difference between Rotterdam’s temperatures and rural areas further away can be as much as 10°C on hot days. Image 1 :- Rotterdam It has dense high rise buildings, with a lot of concrete and Impervious surfaces. A larger percentage of buildings and other impervious surfaces diminishes the evaporation from the ground. Evaporation processes have a cooling effect on air and surface temperatures. Image 2 :- Area on the outskirts of Delft Low density housing, with surrounding vegetation, close to open water and more permeable surfaces. The trees and vegetation offer shade and keep surface and air temperatures down. UHI effect Rotterdam:- Density of buildings and large amounts of paving are causing higher temperatures and heat stress. The impervious streets, squares, car parks and buildings are substantially hotter on hot summer days than in rural areas. This because there is little vegetation in the city compared to the more rural areas. 3. Which are the measures you would propose? • Incorporate more vegetation, in parks, on the streets and on buildings using green roofs/ façades. • Limit the percentage of impervious surfaces, replace where possible with permeable surfaces. • Provide shade for impervious surfaces by planting trees in car parks, squares, school yards and along roads to help to reduce surface temperatures. • Protect and retain existing green areas within the city. • Vegetation also helps to clear the air of dust and other pollutants. • Reduce the number of vehicles on the roads. • More sustainable new buildings and conversions of existing buildings. 4. Is UHI effect concerning policy making in your area? The Rotterdam Municipality has collected information of the UHI effect for their city. The Departments of Public Works and Urban Planning use this information to identify the areas needing more vegetation or water coverage. This information also helps with the choice of materials for façades and paving, gives policy makers and health organisations a better understanding of the relationship between individuals’ health and their physical environment. In Holland a movement has recently emerged that is calling for more green in towns and cities, this is beginning to affect the policies and planning of some municipalities, such as Rotterdam.There is a Rotterdam climate Initiative which invests in sustainability and adaptation to climate change in pursuit of a healthy and future resilient city.