A city in the south relies on an innovative, yet remarkably simple solution against excessive summer heat: cool roofs.
The Grist reports that Atlanta recently passed a law that prescribes that all new roofs have to reflect more. The changes will not be made immediately; Existing roofs do not yet have to be painted white, but new buildings and replacement roofs are subject to the new law. The new roofs could cool the entire city by an average of 2.4 degrees Fahrenheit and in the hottest quarters by up to 6.3 degrees.
Another remarkable feature of the cooling roof regulation is the estimated energy savings of $ 315 million that the city will achieve over the next 35 years. The new roofs do not cost more than conventional roofs and may even be cheaper. In addition, they last longer because the roof is not exposed to the same wear by the heat. Greg Kats, the founder and CEO of the non -profit Smart Surfaces Coalition, said:
“It is an extremely inexpensive way to make the city healthier and more competitive, reduce energy costs and protect jobs.”
The urban heat is a significant problem; The lack of vegetation and the high concrete concentration create heat islands that are particularly dangerous for older people and children. Since the temperature on the planet is increasing due to human activities, heat waves are getting longer and more fatal. The New York Times reported on a study that resulted in an increase in heat -related deaths in the United States by 117 % since 2000.
The introduction of the Cool Roof concept in Atlanta exceeds that of other cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City. It is a great example of local action and shows the flexibility that local governments can have in coping with climate problems. As the author of the draft law, City Councilor Liliana Bakhtiari, explained in a press release:
“This legislation is not just about roofs, it is about resilience. It is about protecting health, reducing the energy stress and working for communities that have been overlooked for far too long. Atlanta not only talks about air conditioning;”
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