In one of Los Angeles's hottest neighbourhoods, more than 700,000 square feet of dark asphalt was covered with a solar-reflective coating. The aim was simple: reduce the amount of heat absorbed by streets, car parks, playgrounds and other paved surfaces. According to research published in Environmental Research Communications , the experiment took place in Pacoima, a neighbourhood in the San Fernando Valley where summer heat can be intense. After the coating was applied, researchers found that the treated area was cooler than a nearby comparison area. During a September 2022 heatwave, afternoon air temperatures in some street segments of the treated area were up to 3.5°F (1.9°C) lower than in the comparison area.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
