Urban Heat Islands

Cities are often several degrees warmer than the surrounding countryside.

城市的氣溫往往比周遭的鄉村高出好幾度。

This phenomenon, known as the urban heat island effect, has several causes.

這種現象稱為都市熱島效應，成因有好幾個。

Concrete and asphalt absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night.

混凝土和柏油白天吸收熱量，夜間再慢慢釋放出來。

Air conditioners, vehicles and factories add even more heat to the environment.

冷氣、車輛和工廠還會向環境排放更多熱量。

The lack of trees means there is less shade and less natural cooling.

樹木稀少意味著遮蔭更少，自然降溫的效果也更弱。

During heatwaves, these higher temperatures can pose serious health risks.

在熱浪來襲期間，這樣的高溫可能對健康造成嚴重威脅。

Planners are responding by planting trees and creating green roofs.

規劃人員正透過植樹和打造綠屋頂來因應。

Some cities are also painting surfaces in light colours to reflect sunlight.

有些城市也把各種表面漆成淺色，以反射陽光。

Such measures can make urban life more comfortable and sustainable.

這些措施可以讓都市生活更舒適、更永續。