Key Points
- Urban forests can reduce heat waves by 2 degrees Celsius
- Broadleaf and mixed forests provide the most effective cooling
- Needle-leaf forests are slightly less effective
By the Numbers
As record heat waves continue globally, urban planners are seeking thermal relief. According to a new study from the Korea National Institute of Forest Science, urban forests are serving as powerful, natural air conditioners, reducing daytime temperatures by approximately 2 degrees Celsius.
The study's findings, based on continuous temperature and humidity monitoring data in various urban environments in Seoul, show that urban forests provide a consistent cooling effect. The data reveals that urban forests can reduce temperatures by up to 1.8 degrees Celsius. However, not all green spaces provide equal cooling. The researchers discovered that broadleaf and mixed forests - those with both types of trees - have the most dramatic cooling effect.
These forests can cool surrounding areas by 1.5 to 1.8 degrees Celsius. Needle-leaf forests are slightly less effective, reducing temperatures by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How do urban forests reduce heat waves?
- Urban forests reduce temperature through the shade of trees and evaporation
- Which type of forests provide the most effective cooling?
- Broadleaf and mixed forests provide the most effective cooling
- What is the cooling effect of urban forests?
- Urban forests can reduce temperatures by up to 1.8 degrees Celsius
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