Urbanization Can Cause Rising Temperatures Similar To Climate Change
- 9 years ago
A research team has discovered through computer models that urbanization can cause the temperatures of an area to soar, as they are projected to do in California’s Central Valley.
Concentrated population growth in a given area can lead to increased temperatures.
In fact, one recent study -- the first to look at California exclusively -- has estimated that the state’s Central Valley could heat up by approximately 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit by the year 2100 strictly through urbanization.
Scientists call this phenomenon the urban heat island effect where asphalt and building materials absorb and radiate heat from the sun, which contributes to a warmer, localized climate.
The study arrived at these projected figures through computer models based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s forecast that more of the central valley’s farmland will likely be replaced by buildings.
This predominantly agricultural area is already the mo
Concentrated population growth in a given area can lead to increased temperatures.
In fact, one recent study -- the first to look at California exclusively -- has estimated that the state’s Central Valley could heat up by approximately 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit by the year 2100 strictly through urbanization.
Scientists call this phenomenon the urban heat island effect where asphalt and building materials absorb and radiate heat from the sun, which contributes to a warmer, localized climate.
The study arrived at these projected figures through computer models based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s forecast that more of the central valley’s farmland will likely be replaced by buildings.
This predominantly agricultural area is already the mo