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Context

The increasing challenges of heatwaves and wildfires in Europe due to climate change

Details

• Europe is experiencing severe heat waves and wildfires due to climate change, prompting discussions on the role of global warming in intensifying these events.

Impact of Climate Change

• Greenhouse gas emissions have elevated global temperatures by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times.
• Heatwaves will persist and worsen until greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, leading to rising temperatures.

Mitigation Measures

• Introduction of vegetated awnings or canopies to combat heat and enhance urban areas. Example from Spain's Santa Maria Street in Valladolid.

Functionality of Vegetated Canopies

Design and Installation:

• Tensioned sail-like structures attached to building facades, mimicking natural canopies.
• ‘Greenshades’ allow for shade and greenery in commercial streets where vegetation is scarce.

Installation Process:

• Anchors, supports, and geotextile substrate laid down.
• Irrigation system installed for watering the substrate.
• Fertilizer ensures vegetation growth.
• Excess water collected and drained through a connected system.
• Seed mixture projected onto the geotextile.

Vegetation Growth:

• Expected to be fully covered with vegetation after four months.
• Suitable for streets with limited space for tree planting.
• Hydroponic growth with water supply and drainage outlets.

Advantages of Vegetated Canopies

• Temperature Reduction: Utilizes evapotranspiration to cool surroundings and areas under the canopy.
• Air Quality Improvement: Selected plant species absorb gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide. Substrate filters harmful gases and absorbs sound waves, reducing noise pollution.
• Oxygen Generation: A square meter of canopy generates a year's worth of oxygen for a person.
• Efficient Lighting: Centralized water and light installations. Lights equipped with movement sensors, illuminating streets based on need.
• Contribution to Urban Biodiversity: Canopies could promote urban biodiversity, supporting various wildlife species.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q) Evaluate the advantages of vegetative canopies in terms of temperature regulation, air quality improvement, energy efficiency, and potential contributions to urban biodiversity. (150 words)

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/vegetated-canopies-green-spaces-urban-spain-8893918/