Uploaded on 2020-05-05 by Olga Vitkovska

Based on the analysis of the satellite images, Kyiv provides an example of stark contrasts in temperatures across districts. The temperature differences can be up to 10 degrees Celsius between the districts with high density of buildings and little greenery and less dense areas with more parks and water bodies. For example, here is the data for August 2018: areas with large malls and parking lots – 40-43 degrees; quiet old city parts with old trees – 34-37 degrees. To reduce the heat island effect the must be a complex solution. To start with – protect and expand the green areas and regulate the construction process to avoid highly dense areas with little green space. It could also help to stimulate the construction sphere to use more sustainable materials, avoid dark colors for rooftops, promote the idea of green rooftops and vertical greening. Unfortunately, there is no policy to reduce the UHI, at least none that is seen in action. On the contrary, the “greening system” of municipal services is set up in a way that it is more profitable to cut the trees than to plant them, and illegal harmful actions in construction business are widespread.