heat island

Heat Islands occur because urban environments trap more heat than natural environments. The suns heat is absorbed by building materials and surfaces such as bricks, roads, carparks, gravel, and concrete. The heat is then radiated into the surrounding area, increasing daytime temperatures, and even reducing night time cooling. When large areas lack vegetation the effect is concentrated and can raise the average temperature of a suburb by as much as five degrees

The increased heat can directly effect our community economically, by increasing our energy and water consumption to cool our personal environments. More concerning is the negative effects on human health. Increased heat can cause respiratory difficulties, heat cramps, exhaustion, heat stroke and even heat related mortality.

What are we doing? 

Each year the City plans and plants an average of 400 trees on verges adjoining residential properties. Areas that lack tree cover are prioritised as they are most at risk of becoming a heat island.

Everyone can help grow our urban forest, and enjoy the many benefits trees and shrubs provide

How can I help with Urban Forest?

There are many ways people can get involved;

Page Last Reviewed 18 May 2023