News - Mission Earth
Urban Heat Islands and the Role of University of Toledo: Toledo's Parking Day Celebration on 15th of September
The increasing prevalence of deforestation and construction activities in metropolitan regions, driven by urbanization, has led to the formation of Urban Heat Islands (UHIs). These UHIs are the result of replacing natural land cover with artificial surfaces like pavements and buildings that absorb and re-emit solar radiation, causing adverse effects such as heightened energy consumption, elevated air pollution, and an increase in heat-related health issues and fatalities. Addressing this issue has become imperative, and effective strategies are being sought.
To tackle this challenge, the Toledo Design Collective organized a significant event, the Parking Day Celebration, which took place on September 15, 2023, in Toledo, Ohio. The event served as a valuable opportunity for the public to gain a deeper understanding of the "urban heat island effect" under the guidance of Dr. Kevin Czajkowski.
The University of Toledo participated in this event by providing a dedicated booth equipped with professional-grade thermometers, cameras, and an assortment of surface samples, including concrete, black and white tiles, sands, woods, foams, artificial turf and variety of surface covers . These resources were used to illustrate the differences between various surfaces, allowing attendees to personally measure temperature variations, facilitating a comprehensive comprehension of the topic.
The event created a joyful atmosphere, with attendees actively participating in the engaging activities and expressing their enjoyment. People were not only educated about the urban heat island effect, but they also had a lot of fun throughout the day. The interactive elements, including using professional thermometers to measure temperature variations, added to the enjoyment and created a positive and memorable experience for all.
Beyond its educational aspects, Parking Day was a vibrant and engaging occasion. It featured an array of enjoyable activities and included an awards ceremony, notably the "people's choice award." This event, aligned with The Arts Commission's Momentum Festival, placed a strong emphasis on the significance of community involvement and the critical role of urban green spaces in mitigating UHIs. The event was open to all and underlined the power of community engagement in addressing this pressing environmental challenge.
