Uploaded on 2017-08-27 by Nicol

In the city of Aberdeen the Urban Heat Island effect can be seen. Often the difference in temperatures can be seen between the rural areas in Aberdeenshire and the city. The difference between the temperatures in the central business district and even the suburbs, such as Westhill, is in itself noticeable. However, as shown in the city image attached the city has a number of parks and trees lining the streets which help to mitigate the urban heat island effect. In our city the use of parks and vegetation is already explored to a point, but I feel could be used more effectively throughout the city as we continue to develop area. The idea of the specification of green roofs is another associated method which could be implemented in new builds across the city. Aberdeen is often referred to as the 'granite city' or the 'gray city' in that most buildings have facades made of granite. The darker colour of this material goes against the strategy of using light coloured surfaces to reduce the heat island effect. Perhaps a way to use this strategy while preserving the unique character of the city should be investigated. The topic of the urban heat island effect is discussed within the current Aberdeen city centre planning masterplan. One of the main ways they propose dealing with this is through the increased use of vegetation which will also increase the liveability as a whole of the city.