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  1. Home
  2. Heat Islands
  3. Heat Island Reduction Solutions

Using Trees and Vegetation to Reduce Heat Islands

Trees and other plants have a natural cooling effect, making vegetation a simple and effective way to reduce heat islands. Explore these pages to learn the benefits of trees, and how local governments and community members can take action.  

  • Benefits of Trees and Vegetation

    Squirrel in tree

    Get to know the benefits of trees and vegetation in urban environments.

    Explore Benefits
  • Local Governments and Trees

    City park

    Explore local approaches to increase trees and vegetation and reduce heat island effects.

    Find Local Approaches
  • Community Members and Trees

    Family in garden

    Learn factors to consider when embarking on tree planting efforts.

    Learn What You Can Do

More Information and Resources

Guide to Reducing Heat Islands

 Chapter 2 of the Guide covers Trees and Vegetation topics:

  • How trees and vegetation reduce temperatures
  • The benefits and costs associated with trees and vegetation
  • Other factors to consider when using trees and vegetation
  • Urban forestry initiatives
  • Tree and vegetation tools and resources

Heat Islands

  • Learn About Heat Island Effects​
    • What Are Heat Islands?
    • Measuring Heat Islands
  • Heat Island Reduction Solutions
    • Trees and Vegetation
    • Green Roofs
    • Cool Roofs
    • Cool Pavements
    • Adapting to Heat
    • Smart Growth and Heat Islands
  • Community Heat Island Efforts
    • Community Actions Database
    • Local Heat Stories
  • Guide to Reducing Heat Islands
  • Heat Island Outreach
    • Webinars
    • Cool Your Community Social Media Toolkit
    • Outreach Materials
  • Heat Island Resources
    • Frequent Questions and Resources
    • Related Links
Contact Us About Heat Islands
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on December 10, 2024
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