Urban heat island
(Relevant for Geography Section of General Studies Paper Prelims/Mains)
The urban heat island effect is a phenomenon in which urban areas experience higher air temperatures compared to the surrounding rural areas. This disparity is particularly evident during night time. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including the utilization of dark materials that absorb heat in construction, the absence of vegetation, and the heat generated by human activities.
Causes:
- Reduced albedo materials: Albedo refers to the ratio of reflected solar energy to incident solar energy. Materials with low albedo absorb a greater amount of solar energy, leading to higher heat retention and elevated urban temperatures.
- Impervious and surfaced areas: Surfaces like roads and parking lots, which are often paved and impermeable, can absorb solar radiation and convert it into heat. Additionally, their impermeability prevents water absorption by plants and natural bodies, hindering cooling mechanisms.
- Scarcity of greenery: The presence of vegetation aids in air cooling by absorbing carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen. Locations with limited vegetation are more susceptible to the urban heat island effect.
- Human-driven activities: Human actions encompassing power generation, transportation, industrial processes, and air conditioning contribute to the release of heat and greenhouse gases, further intensifying the urban heat island effect.
Consequences
The urban heat island effect can lead to various adverse outcomes, which encompass:
- Heightened energy usage and associated expenses for cooling structures and transportation.
- Elevated air pollution and heightened emissions of greenhouse gases stemming from the burning of fossil fuels.
- Augmented health hazards like heat-related ailments such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and cardiovascular conditions.
- Diminished water quality due to escalated runoff and evaporation patterns. Reduced diversity in species and curtailed ecosystem benefits as a result of habitat reduction and fragmentation.
Mitigation Measures:
- Enhancing urban design and planning: Effective urban design and planning strategies can mitigate the urban heat island effect by improving natural airflow, minimizing sun-exposed surface area, elevating albedo, and integrating water elements. For instance, opting for porous materials in pavements, establishing open spaces and corridors for air circulation, positioning buildings to optimize shade and air movement, and constructing artificial lakes or ponds can contribute.
- Expanding greenery: The incorporation of vegetation can effectively counteract high air temperatures through shading and cooling generated by evapotranspiration. Expanding parklands, planting trees along streets, and implementing green roofs and walls that support plant growth are avenues that cities can explore. Research indicates that the presence of vegetation can lead to a temperature reduction of approximately 4°F in nearby areas.
- Utilizing cool roofs and pavements: Cool roofs and pavements integrate reflective coatings or materials that bounce back more sunlight and absorb less heat. These installations can diminish roof and pavement surface temperatures by up to 50°F and lower the overall ambient air temperature by several degrees.
- Curbing greenhouse gas emissions: Encouraging eco-friendly transportation practices and bolstering energy efficiency in residences and businesses are effective strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These actions can contribute significantly to mitigating the urban heat island effect.
The urban heat island effect is a serious problem that can have a number of negative consequences. However, there are a number of measures that can be taken to mitigate the urban heat island effect. By taking these measures, we can help to make our cities more livable and sustainable.
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Choose The Best Sociology Optional Teacher for IAS Preparation?
At the beginning of the journey for Civil Services Examination preparation, many students face a pivotal decision – selecting their optional subject. Questions such as “which optional subject is the best?” and “which optional subject is the most scoring?” frequently come to mind. Choosing the right optional subject, like choosing the best sociology optional teacher, is a subjective yet vital step that requires a thoughtful decision based on facts. A misstep in this crucial decision can indeed prove disastrous.
Ever since the exam pattern was revamped in 2013, the UPSC has eliminated the need for a second optional subject. Now, candidates have to choose only one optional subject for the UPSC Mains, which has two papers of 250 marks each. One of the compelling choices for many has been the sociology optional. However, it’s strongly advised to decide on your optional subject for mains well ahead of time to get sufficient time to complete the syllabus. After all, most students score similarly in General Studies Papers; it’s the score in the optional subject & essay that contributes significantly to the final selection.
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The choice of the optional subject should be based on objective criteria, such as the nature, scope, and size of the syllabus, uniformity and stability in the question pattern, relevance of the syllabic content in daily life in society, and the availability of study material and guidance. For example, choosing the best sociology optional coaching can ensure access to top-quality study materials and experienced teachers. Always remember, the approach of the UPSC optional subject differs from your academic studies of subjects. Therefore, before settling for sociology optional, you need to analyze the syllabus, previous years’ pattern, subject requirements (be it ideal, visionary, numerical, conceptual theoretical), and your comfort level with the subject.
This decision marks a critical point in your UPSC – CSE journey, potentially determining your success in a career in IAS/Civil Services. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose wisely, whether it’s the optional subject or the best sociology optional teacher. Always base your decision on accurate facts, and never let your emotional biases guide your choices. After all, the search for the best sociology optional coaching is about finding the perfect fit for your unique academic needs and aspirations.
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