The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is a phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than the surrounding rural areas. This temperature difference is primarily caused by human activities and the materials used in cities. For example, dark surfaces like asphalt roads and building roofs absorb and store more solar radiation compared to natural landscapes. In addition, cities usually have less vegetation, such as trees and parks. This lack of greenery reduces the natural cooling process of evapotranspiration, where plants release water vapor into the air.
Human activities also contribute to the UHI effect. The use of cars, air conditioning systems, and industrial processes all release waste heat into the atmosphere. As a result, energy consumption for cooling often increases, especially during summer months. This effect can also have negative impacts on air quality and public health. To address this problem, cities are exploring solutions like installing green roofs, which are covered with plants, and using lighter-colored, reflective materials for construction. These strategies are designed to reduce heat absorption.
Câu hỏi luyện tập
1. What is the main topic of the passage?
2. According to the passage, what process of releasing water vapor is reduced by a lack of greenery?
3. According to the passage, why do dark surfaces contribute to the UHI effect?
4. What do cars and industrial processes release into the atmosphere that contributes to the UHI effect?
5. Why does the passage mention green roofs and reflective materials?
6. What are strategies like green roofs and reflective materials designed to do?