Assessment of the use of green and reflective roofing on the urban heat island in London

High-density urban development, highly absorptive surfaces and absence of green space have had a negative impact on localized microclimate. The increase of surface temperature due to these factors exhibits consequential increase energy consumption and implies the need for increased climate conditioning. The model demonstrates the impact of typical urban composition on the surrounding environment and suggests the urban fabric itself causes the major weight of UHI. Where variables, such as roof types, are introduced, the patterns in surface temperature suggest a strong correlation between roof surface and energy consumption. A hypothetical city block located in a densely developed urban area has been modeled using TAS EDSL as the modeling tool, in an attempt to assert the effects of green and reflective roofing on the surface and surrounding temperatures of the model. Additionally the effect of these technologies has on the overall building energy consumption has been examined. Key findings concur with previous research conducted in the field including: The modeled green roof shows a reduction in surface temperatures compared to the base model Using materials with various increased reflectivity from the base model show reduction in surface temperatures and surrounding temperatures as compared to the base model. Both the use of green roofing and reflective roofing materials have a positive affect on the reduction of overall energy consumption for a cooling season Through the use of green roofing or highly reflective roofing materials, the effects of UHI and global warming may be reduced