Addressing the Urban Heat Islands Effect: A Cross-Country Assessment of the Role of Green Infrastructure

The Urban Heat Islands (UHI) effect is a microclimatic phenomenon that especially affects urban areas. It associated with significant temperature increases in the local microclimate, and may amplify heat waves. Due to their intensity, UHI causes not only thermal discomfort, but also reductions levels of life quality. This paper reviews important role green infrastructure as means through which intensity be reduced, along negative impact on human comfort wellbeing. Apart from comprehensive review available literature, reports an analysis case studies set 14 cities 13 countries representing various geographical regions climate zones. results obtained suggest whereas common phenomenon, areas under some conditions ameliorate impacts. In addition, study revealed scope impacts are uniform: depending peculiarities morphologies, they pose different challenges linked microclimate peculiar each city. implications this threefold. Firstly, it reiterates complex interrelations UHIs, waves change. Secondly, outlines fact keeping increasing resources leads additional benefits directly or indirectly reduce UHI. Finally, need for city planners pay more attention possible effects when initiating new building projects adjusting current ones.