Uploaded on 2017-03-02 by Jay Aragon

Which are the main UHI effects that you can identify in your area? I'm currently living in Singapore. The Summer heat can easily go up to 34° C. Since this is a small country, there is no defined boundary that can distinguish urban and rural areas. But the CBD area is hotter that the greenery/ vegetation area by an average of 4°C to 5 °C. Which are the measures you would propose? One of the great things here in Singapore, they are already aware of the UHI effect and already doing something about it. If I can be part of decision-making, probably I would require small developments to integrate green in their infrastructures and give incentives for it. Not only big scale development needs to pass the greenmark requirement. I would also suggest to plant more trees and other vegetation to increase shade and lowers surface and air temperatures on vacant lots or open grass areas. E.g. Open green areas can be found near MRT within the CBD area. Is UHI effect concerning policy making in your area? There are a lot of policies to reduce UHI effect in Singapore. On the planning/ architectural side, one of the visible results is the execution of the green buffer requirement and tree conservation on developments. During planning stage, you are encourage to submit plans and seek approval. They don't allow to cut trees without replacing or relocating the existing trees affected. After the construction, you are only given clearance if you have complied with all their requirements. They also have strong commitment in achieving sustainable development. Similar to the submission process of seeking approval from the government for the green buffer requirement; there are other governing bodies which give guidelines and incentives for big developments to encourage them in building green infrastructures. From choosing energy-efficient equipment/ lighting, to building materials that help reduce heat, to constructing green wall/ roof that would absorb heat and act as insulators for the building. These are just some of the policies that I can easily notice since it is part of my day to day routine at work.