Human development has meant that many natural features that reduce heat have been removed and replaced with man-made features that instead amplify heat. For example, city buildings, roads and footpaths are often made of hard materials like concrete and asphalt. These act like sponges, absorbing heat from the sun during the day and releasing this at night.
This is one reason why overnight temperatures are often higher in cities.
In addition, more heat-generating activities occur in cities. Shade structures like shade sails can help cool down built structures. This can help reduce ‘urban heat’ by reducing the heat stored in buildings and surfaces.
Shade sails can also provide a natural, zero-emissions source of cooling. Installing a shade sail in the correct position will naturally decrease your home’s temperature by shading your windows. Therefore, they will decrease your reliance on air conditioning. Not only will this save you money, but it will also reduce your carbon footprint.
Shade sails also encourage you to spend more time outdoors, which can further reduce your reliance on air conditioning.
Air conditioning is a significant cause of urban heat, as it pumps heat into the natural environment. Therefore, reducing our reliance on air conditioners can help address the issue of urban heat.
Increasingly, Australians are conscious of their water use and its environmental impact. In positive news, shade sails can help improve water conservation. By reducing water evaporation, shade sails can decrease water use. For example, installing a shade sail over your swimming pool will reduce its evaporation. Therefore, you won’t have to refill it as often. Shade sails can also stop your garden from drying out. This will mean it requires less water. Therefore, shade sails can help you reduce your water use.
Shade sails can shield natural environments from sun and wind and provide a cool refuge for plants and animals, increasing biodiversity.
