В Шарлестоне запускают проект по озеленению районов для борьбы с эффектом городского острова тепла

Charleston heat island project aims to cool urban neighborhoods CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — A research project is working to bring more nature into Charleston-area neighborhoods to combat the effects of heat islands, areas where surfaces absorb and radiate heat, pushing temperatures and heat index values higher than surrounding areas. What is a heat island? In the Gadsden Green neighborhood, a thermometer may read 84 degrees, but the heat index can reach 96. Dr. Scott Curtis, a professor at The Citadel, said the built environment is largely responsible. “Surfaces, whether that’s buildings, streets, parking lots, that absorb heat a lot and then give that heat back off,” Curtis said. He said the cycle compounds the problem. “Sun hits the earth, it heats up the earth and the earth then heats the atmosphere and that’s what we’re living in,” Curtis said. Heat islands are found in many urban areas, including the Lowcountry. Residents in affected neighborhoods said the conditions make being outside difficult. “Walking is unbearable,” one resident said. “No pleasure walking or standing outside,” another said. What the research project is doing The Charleston Heat Health Research Project is focused on introducing more natural elements into affected communities. Curtis said vegetation is a key part of the solution. “That would be trees or even just parks and grasses and things like that,” he said. Researchers say trees provide shade and also help offset the heat generated by concrete and asphalt surfaces. Community members said more greenery would help, particularly as temperatures climb. “Have more shade, more time to sit outside,” one resident said. Risks and personal precautions Research has shown that children and pets face a higher risk in heat islands due to their proximity to hot pavement and sidewalks. “As you’re closer to the ground, whether it’s a sidewalk or the street there, you’re getting a greater impact for the heat island effect,” Curtis said. Curtis also outlined steps individuals can take in the meantime. “Take breaks, take a lot of hydration, take breaks and then also seek air conditioning, you know, periodically,” he said. The Charleston Heat Health Research Project is continuing its work to identify ways to help affected communities. Copyright 2026 WCSC. All rights reserved.