Many cities trying to cool down ambient outdoor temperatures for the public’s comfort have been using so-called “cool pavements,” especially on their streets. But researcher Ariane Middel is finding these typically white pavement materials that are supposed to lower temperatures, by reflecting energy from sunlight, are actually causing a rise in heat. Middel is an urban climatologist and an assistant professor in the Fulton Schools and the School of Arts, Media. She and fellow researchers have recently been studying the impact of measures to keep urban heat down in Los Angeles. But she has discovered temperatures are being boosted by the solar radiation that is reflecting off of the white paving materials.

See Also: ASU researcher finds white ‘cool pavements’ actually make you hotter, 3TV/CBS 5 News – Phoenix, October 11