The Role of Trees in Mitigating the Urban Heat Island Effect

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The Role of Trees in Mitigating the Urban Heat
Island Effect

• By Carimaxy Benitez
• Scientist Dr. Stuart Gaffin
• Mentors Adam Greenbaum and Lisa Meirowitch
• Team member Alex Konrad

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Abstract

• How do trees affect surface and air temperature?
• We collected data from sites with similar
  architecture and tree species.
• With this data, we hope to make recommendations
  to NYSERDA on tree planting.

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Air vs. Surface Temperature
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Albedos

• Asphalt (weathered)- .11
• Asphalt (blue)- .15
• Red Track- .25

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Albedos

• Asphalt (new)- .07
• Astroturf - .07
• Grass - .34

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Albedos
Asphalt (weathered) .11
Asphalt (new) .07
Asphalt (blue paint) .15
Red Track .25
Astroturf .07
Grass .34
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Further Research

• Study various tree species and how they affect
  air and surface temperatures.
• Take more measurements and give our
  recommendations to New York State Energy Research
  and development Authority (NYSERDA).
• Look for possible green roof locations in New
  York City

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Special Thanks

• Dr. Stuart Gaffin
• Adam and Lisa
• NYCRI Program
• Dr. Frank Scalzo