Student Research Reports

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The alarming rate at which trees are being chopped off when ‘upgrading’ streets and the excessive rate of building in an already high densely populated area prompted us to study in detail urban temperatures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of trees on urban heat islands. The urban heat island effect indicates that the urban or built up areas are warmer than the natural open space area. This study investigated the effects of trees on surface temperatures. This was analysed by recording the surface temperature from two different areas: built up areas (concrete/asphalt), and grassy patches with trees planted nearby. The main objective was to find out the temperature differences between these two sites. Results showed that the more trees there are the less difference in temperature. Results support the statement that lack of trees contributes to the formation of UHIs. Having discovered all this the students went a step further. They wanted to be part of the change and not just pointing fingers and complaining about the environmental degradation. Thus, they came up with an innovative idea on how to promote the growth of indigenous and endemic trees. Using recycled materials, of which toilet paper rolls and newspapers, the students prepared over 450 seed packs, with seeds collected locally. The seed packs were given out to students, teachers, school staff and people from the general community who saw the adverts and participated in the Climate Action Fun Walk. The aim of this walk was to raise awareness about climate change and the need for action. The students also carried out research on the various local trees and shrubs of which they distributed seed packs, amongst which: Judas Tree, Myrtle, Aleppo Pine, Lentisk, the Maltese Everlasting, Wild Thyme, and many more. Key words: surface temperature, urban area, trees and grass, climate action