Offsetting the heat island effect
- Trees reduce heat, provide vital habitat for wildlife and reduce air pollution. Each 10% of tree cover reduces ground temperatures by over 1 degree Celsius.
- Councils must commit to an increase in urban tree canopy, setting a generous target of 40% tree cover in low and medium density areas and 25% in high density areas.
- The use of green walls and rooftop gardens should be encouraged along with the use of surfaces that ensure natural, passive cooling of buildings and neighbourhoods.
- Council to consider construction of heat refuges, cool pavements, a new development policy against dark roofing, and access to public pools.