Research
Research Questions: Landscape Architecture Strategies That Address Extreme Heat
What types of landscape architecture and nature-based solutions have been implemented that are effective at reducing temperatures? What solutions at the national, regional, urban, neighborhood, and site scales work best? What are planning and design examples at various scales that have demonstrated proven temperature reduction benefits while also providing additional co-benefits, such as sequestering carbon, protecting and increasing biodiversity, and reducing climate risks?
Scope of research analysis:
- Reforestation and afforestation strategies at all scales
- Shade strategies at all scales
- Paver and other hardscape material strategies
- Planting to increase evapotranspiration
- Green and open spaces
- Water features and elements
- Water conservation
- Urban heat island mitigation
- Urban forests
- Energy systems
- Public health
- Climate justice
Implemented project types that can be evaluated:
- Rural, suburban, and urban projects
- Streets, roads, and other transportation systems
- Parks and plazas
- Playgrounds and schoolyards
- Greenroofs and greenwalls
- Educational and corporate campuses
- Mixed-used and commercial developments
- Residential communities
- Individual homes
For projects: pre- or comparable baseline and post-project data should be included for comparison where available. According to the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF), optimal timing for an initial performance assessment is 1-5 years after construction is complete, depending on project type.