Review and Critical Analysis of International UHI Studies

Availability: the level and type of information available. Both qualitative backed by quantitative
information on the benefits of UHI mitigating technology and their performance characteristics
over conventional alternatives is critical for uptake of the potential countermeasures. Such
information could be made available by developing simple rules of thumb that could easily be
used by designers and planners. Such rules of thumb have not been found in any of the literature
sources; however, databases and studies that help to identify the relative benefits of UHI
technologies do exist.
Awareness: it is important that the relevant stakeholders are aware of the information pertaining
to the benefits and superior performance (including an appreciation for penalties in different
climates types and seasons) and life‐cycle cost benefit credentials of advanced UHI technologies
over conventional technologies. Such awareness can be achieved through publicly available
databases and studies, labeling, advertising and demonstration projects. Such databases for cool
roofs and shade trees are already available and numerous public building demonstration projects
exist across the world.
Accessibility: this defines who has access to the required information that will inform
stakeholders across the UHI value chain. For example, if architects have access to a database that
identifies the relative costs, proposed benefits, and sourcing of traditional dark roofs and high
albedo dark roofing alternatives then they may feel more willing to incorporate cool roofing
alternatives into their future designs. The literature indicated that the availability of information
was broadly aimed at policy makers but should be extended to include designers and planners
who adapt existing urban structures and cities – providing them with access to such information
could act to encourage them to use UHI countermeasures over more conventional alternatives.
Affordability: the information must be affordable, ideally free and publically available such that
all stakeholders have access to the required information relevant to their domain. For example
modeling studies, measured data research, policy recommendations etc. The majority of the
literature was found to be free and publicly available through a range of internet based sources
and targeted websites. Another point to consider is the cost of producing such information and
whether this acts as a barrier to research institutions.
Acceptance: in order for the information to be acceptable to potential influential stakeholders it is
necessary that all the required information on UHI mitigating technologies i.e. operating life,
performance, cost, and other ancillary benefits are identified, made available, and collected in one
place to allow informed decision making. The literature indicates that such information and its
concentration is readily available for cool roofs, shade trees and green roofs; however, more data
and research is required to develop such information and tools for cool pavements.
Primary Barriers/Catalysts:
� Existence of demonstration projects, technology knowledge base, reports and guidelines
to inform all stakeholders;
� Accessibility of key studies on mitigation technologies and their benefits;
� Affordability of this information to key stakeholders; and
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