Heat waves as a result of increasing urbanisation:
Heat waves have killed more Australians than all other natural hazards combined. At least 4,500 Australians have died from heat waves since the year 1900.
(Dr Karl. Great Moments in Science ABC Published 25 November 2014)
Heatwaves are the most underrated of the natural disasters, as the bushfires that accompany many heat waves tend to get most of the attention and in Australia they have caused the greatest loss of life of any natural hazard (except disease).
Our Cities and their climate are getting hotter due to persistent higher temperatures.
Every day trees and shrubs in our cities and surrounds are being replaced by concrete and asphalt; this is causing what is called the “Heat Island” effect.
The once passive ways to cool our dwellings in our suburbs was to plant a tree, however this has now been reversed, with resulting Heat Effects in our cities.. Tree filled avenues reduce the amount of heat, and reflection, reaching the road and heating up the cars and surrounding buildings.
Australian Council of Social Services chief executive Cassandra Goldie comments: “Governments must implement measures to ensure that the community sector is well-prepared and resourced, to support those most at risk, so they are better able to deal with heat events as they inevitably occur.”
ABC Environment Published 4 SEP 2014.
Importantly, it is not just climate change.
Urbanisation and loss of vegetation in our cities is increasing the risk into the future. Increasing urbanisation can lead to raised maximum air temperatures in built-up areas. Homes are increasingly built with the presumption of air-conditioning [and] although air-conditioning certainly assists in combating the impacts of heat waves, it may also increase vulnerability should the power fail.”
Despite the removal of traditional trees and avenues plantings, there has been an increased interest and recognition of the importance of the role of Green Walls and Roofs.
The challenge is to promote the environmental impact, rather than just the aesthetically pleasing design factor, when a balance of both can be achieved.
Buildings with green walls and roofs:
Cooling buildings with green roofs and walls is a measure to reduce the ambient heat of a summer’s day.
Energy bills are always rising along with the temperature.
With an increase in apartment and high rise living, green walls and roofs are a viable solution in combating the “Heat Island” effect, as well as counteracting the decrease of vegetation in our cities.
Call Horticulturalist /Greening Expert Robbie Renu on 0412 131 362
to get started on your Green roof or walls today!
Or Fill in our Contact Form – Robbie will be right back to you.