Uploaded on 2017-01-31 by ilia ska

Which are the main UHI effects that you can identify in your area? The UHI phenomenon is evident in my city Thessaloniki, where the temperature in the city center is always higher both of the suburbs [by 1-3 degrees] and the neighboring rural area [by as much as 7]. The result of this is that during the summer months the city becomes unbearable to live in, with most people avoiding being outdoors until the sunset and an excessive use of air-conditioning. The high humidity and the lack of green spaces makes the situation worse, and the only comfort is the seafront. Which are the measures you would propose? I believe the main course of action should be upgrading the built stock of the city. There is a pressing need for sustainable buildings, that require less energy or are self-sufficient, for environment friendly materials, that reduce the reflection effect of the solar radiation, for architecture according to the climate, that can hinder temperature changes without energy consumption. At the same time, it is vital to decrease the number of cars, whose emissions cause significant air pollution, and promote alternative transportation. Is UHI effect concerning policy making in your area? Not particularly. There are some studies that have been or are realized concerning the matter but no action has been taken.