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;
- Apply for a free street tree
- Create a garden beyond the verge by planting plants and waterwise species no matter what size your space
- Tell your friends about the free street tree program
- Annual Native Plants for residents - Plant giveaway event - 10 free native plants per household
- Join in community planting days - Upcoming events
- Give your street tree some TLC with extra water and care
- Place free mulch in your garden, available from the Armadale Landfill site
- Nominate a tree for a preservation order to be included in our Tree Register for Trees of Significance
- Learn more about what an Urban Forest is by visiting Green Spaces are Better Places
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